Synopsis of research work

He has been carrying out path-breaking research  in the area of reaction engineering which had made long lasting impact with applications of very high practical utility to polymers, biodiesel, supercritical fluids and development of novel catalysts.  His work is characterised by uncompromising rigour and depth of analysis in designing novel experiments coupled with sophisticated techniques in order to obtain a fundamental understanding of the basic underlying phenomena. He has successfully utilized these for significant improvements in industrial applications that can be used for generating societal benefits.

His research group focuses on reaction kinetics, as applied to various systems and processes. The research group’s approach is to develop several new materials that are used as catalysts for known reactions. He proposes new reaction pathways/ mechanisms providing the research community with a method to develop new materials with superior properties. In this regard, his research group has synthesized new materials that work as photocatalysts for the degradation of a wide variety of dyes and organics that are common pollutants in waste water. He has also developed new catalysts for the three way catalysis for the NO+CO reaction and CO and hydrocarbon oxidation and proposed new mechanisms governing these reactions. His work on polymer degradation wherein the polymers are converted to useful products such as the monomers or fuel oils has been well received. Prof. Giridhar Madras also collaborates extensively with colleagues. His collaboration has resulted in varied research in the interdisciplinary field of chemistry and materials. Specifically, his collaborations have resulted in the work on new biomaterials based on polymers for drug delivery and tissue engineering; development of new polymers as encapsulants for solar cells and sensors; preparation of novel polymers for membranes and electromagnetic shielding; catalysts for specific selective reactions and several other projects.

His work is of high practical utility in many industrial sectors such as waste water treatment, water purification and the oil/energy sector. His work characterized by high quality innovative experiments coupled with a theoretical framework that can reveal the underlying phenomena.