Teen Innovators Create Game-Changing Healthcare Device: ‘A Tool That’s Both Helpful and Essential’

Three teens from Indore, India, are making waves with a simple yet powerful invention. Dhruv Chaudhary, Mithran Ladhania, and Mridul Jain created the Thermavault, a mini salt-powered refrigerator. It keeps vaccines and medical supplies cool without electricity, solving a critical problem for rural healthcare.

The idea sprouted during the COVID-19 pandemic when they noticed how difficult it was for healthcare workers, including their parents, to maintain vaccines at the right temperature without reliable power. They discovered a solution in a high school science book.

After experimenting with over 150 salts and facing numerous challenges, they found two key components: ammonium chloride and barium hydroxide octahydrate. When mixed with water, these salts absorb heat and can maintain temperatures ideal for vaccines—between 35 and 43 degrees Fahrenheit. Barium hydroxide takes it a step further, making it suitable for organ transport.

Initially, their research didn’t yield results, which was frustrating. However, their connection to healthcare and the communities they wanted to help fueled their determination.

They named their invention Thermavault and entered it in the 2025 Earth Prize competition, where they won $12,500. They plan to build 200 units for testing in 120 hospitals across India. This project represents more than just innovation; it highlights how young people can make a difference through empathy and education.

Currently, the teens are seeking certification from the World Health Organization to collaborate with Gavi, a global vaccine distributor. They are also working on a patent, setting the stage for further development.

Pritesh Vyas, an orthopedic surgeon who tested their prototype, said, “It will be definitely helpful, definitely useful in remote places.” This sentiment reflects a growing trend of grassroots innovation, where local actions address significant issues.

Statistics show that rural areas often struggle with access to essential healthcare resources. In India, about 70% of the population lives in villages, making efficient storage of medical supplies crucial for improving health outcomes.

These teens are turning classroom lessons into impactful solutions, showing that age doesn’t limit one’s ability to drive change. Their story encourages others to consider innovative ways to tackle local challenges, reinforcing the belief that anyone can contribute to building a better future.



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