Thematic Research
Green Chemistry and Technologies
Green Chemistry and Sustainable Technologies research develops eco-friendly materials and processes that reduce dependence on hazardous chemicals and non-renewable resources. Guided by sustainability and circular economy principles, the work focuses on safer, resource-efficient alternatives for real-world applications.
Advanced and Functional Materials
Research in Advanced and Functional Materials focuses on designing and synthesizing innovative materials with tailored properties for applications in technology, energy, healthcare, and engineering. By combining chemistry, nanotechnology, and materials science, the work explores materials with unique optical, electrical, magnetic, and mechanical capabilities.
Wellness
Wellness research focuses on life sciences innovations in protein chemistry, enzymes, synthetic peptides, and bioactive compounds to address health and wellness challenges. The work spans across diagnostics, therapeutics, non-invasive disease detection, and the study of plant and microbial metabolites for medicinal and environmental applications.
Food and Agriculture
Food and Agriculture research develops innovative solutions to improve food security, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices. The work focuses on crop improvement, nutraceuticals, micronutrient fortification, pest management, and reducing post-harvest losses through science-driven approaches.
Earth Sciences
Earth Sciences research focuses on understanding natural processes to support sustainable development, water security, and climate resilience. The work explores carbon sequestration, hydrogeology, soil health, and bio-mediated technologies to improve agricultural productivity and address environmental challenges.
Development of sustainable leather alternatives from natural and eco-friendly resources
Conventional leather production involves chemically intensive tanning processes that generate hazardous waste and depend on non-renewable resources. This project develops biodegradable, plant-based composites that replicate leather’s strength, flexibility, and surface finish while ensuring environmental compatibility. Natural fibres and biomass-derived materials are processed under controlled conditions to form leather-like structures. Multiple formulations are tested to optimize mechanical performance, durability, and aesthetics, with applications targeted toward apparel, automotive interiors, and upholstery sectors.
Saponin-Mediated Green Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles for Environmental Applications
Conventional nanoparticle synthesis relies on synthetic stabilizers that can be toxic and environmentally harmful. This project explores the use of saponins, natural surfactants, as sustainable stabilizing agents for synthesizing metal oxide nanoparticles, particularly copper oxide. Saponins are extracted through aqueous methods and used as capping agents during synthesis.
The process is optimized to achieve stable particles with controlled morphology. The resulting nanoparticles are evaluated for photocatalytic activity, antimicrobial properties, and potential environmental applications, especially in water purification systems.
Development of Biodegradable Sponge Materials from Natural Polymers and Agricultural Waste
Polyurethane foams used for decorative and absorbent applications are non-biodegradable and contribute to microplastic pollution, creating environmental concerns. This project develops a biodegradable sponge material using natural polymers and agricultural waste to replicate water absorption, retention, and structural properties of conventional foams.
Various formulations of polymers, fibers, and crosslinking systems are being designed to create porous structures. These are optimized for strength, retention, and biodegradability, and evaluated against commercial foams through application-based performance testing.
Stories: From Lab to Land
Key Research Projects
Engineering Biodegradable Piezoelectric Materials for Self-Powered Wearable Sensing Applications
Conventional electronic sensors often contribute to electronic waste and require external power sources. There is growing interest in self-powered and environmentally benign sensing systems.
The objective is to develop biodegradable piezoelectric materials that can convert mechanical stress into electrical signals, enabling self-powered sensing applications. Biocompatible and biodegradable materials are engineered to exhibit piezoelectric behavior. These materials are fabricated into sensor structures and evaluated for energy generation efficiency, sensitivity, and durability, particularly in wearable and low-power applications.
Development of Flexible and Transient Electronic Systems for Wearable and Biomedical Applications
Modern electronic systems increasingly require flexibility and adaptability, particularly in wearable and biomedical applications. Conventional rigid electronics limit such applications. The project focuses on developing flexible and transient electronic systems that can operate reliably under mechanical deformation and where required, degrade after use. Flexible substrates and conductive materials are combined to create bendable electronic systems. Mechanical and electrical performance are evaluated under repeated deformation to ensure reliability in real-world use cases.
Development of Superhydrophobic Carbon-Based Nanoparticle Coating for Anti-Icing Applications
Ice accumulation on surfaces poses significant challenges in aerospace, energy systems, and infrastructure, affecting performance and safety.
The project aims to develop nanostructured surface coatings that prevent ice formation and adhesion. Surface engineering techniques are used to create coatings with specific micro- and nano-scale features that reduce ice nucleation and adhesion. Performance is evaluated under simulated environmental conditions to assess effectiveness and durability.
Design and Development of Ferrite-Based Flexible Films for Electromagnetic Shielding
Ferrites are widely used for their magnetic properties, making them suitable for electromagnetic (EM) shielding applications. By modifying their composition, their performance can be tuned for specific needs.
This project focuses on developing ferrite-based materials and incorporating them into flexible films to block electromagnetic radiation. Different compositions are studied to understand how effectively they absorb radiation at various frequencies. The goal is to identify optimal material combinations that provide efficient shielding while maintaining stability and practical usability.
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Chemical Characterization and Anti-Hyperglycemic Efficacy of Ayurvedic Formulations
Many Ayurvedic formulations are clinically effective in managing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, but their molecular mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. The project aims to identify and characterize bioactive compounds in selected formulations and understand their role in anti-hyperglycemic activity.
The study involves extraction and fractionation of compounds followed by analytical characterization using HPLC, LC-MS, and GC-MS. Computational studies are conducted to evaluate binding affinities with relevant biological targets, and in-vitro assays are performed to assess antioxidant and antidiabetic activity. This integrated approach enables a comprehensive understanding of compound-function relationships.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Piperidone Derivatives for Anticancer Activity
Medicinal chemistry emphasizes heterocyclic compounds for their diverse biological activities and therapeutic potential. This project focuses on designing and synthesizing novel piperidone-based derivatives to explore their anticancer properties. Chemical synthesis is carried out to generate new compounds, followed by structural characterization and validation.
The compounds are then evaluated through biological studies to assess their activity and effectiveness. The study aims to understand structure–activity relationships and identify promising candidates for further development as anticancer agents.
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Key Research Projects
Systemic Revitalization of the Arecanut Ecosystem
Arecanut cultivation in Karnataka and Kerala faces challenges from leaf spot disease, causing yield loss and increased chemical dependence. This project investigates ecological drivers of disease by assessing soil, plants, and environmental health. Large-scale field sampling across plantations includes soil, roots, leaves, water, and associated systems.
Comparative analysis between healthy and affected areas identifies key differences. Integrating plant pathology, soil science, and agronomy, the study develops bio-based formulations and management strategies to restore ecological balance and reduce disease incidence sustainably.
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Earth Sciences
Geoelectrical Investigation of Lake Stratigraphy and Recharge Potential
Understanding subsurface characteristics is critical for evaluating water storage and recharging potential in lake systems. The objective is to assess lake stratigraphy and groundwater recharge potential using geophysical techniques.
Geoelectrical surveys are conducted to map subsurface layers and identify zones with high recharge potential. The data is interpreted to provide insights into water movement, storage capacity, and restoration opportunities.
Drone-Based Assessment of Lake–Catchment Connectivity
Urbanization and land-use changes have disrupted natural lake systems, affecting water flow, storage, and ecological balance. The project aims to assess lake–catchment connectivity and understand hydrological dynamics to support lake rejuvenation efforts.
Drone-based surveys are conducted to map terrain, drainage patterns, and catchment characteristics. The collected data is analyzed to identify disruptions in water flow and connectivity, enabling the development of targeted restoration strategies.
Stories: From Lab to Land