Research News

  • New Theories on Dark Matter: Dr Basabendu Proposes New Insights in Q1 Journal October 4, 2024

    In a significant advancement in the field of astrophysics, Dr Basabendu Barman, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics, has published a groundbreaking paper titled “Dark matter-electron scattering and freeze-in scenarios in the light of \textit{Z’} mediation” in the prestigious Q1 journal, Physical Review D, known for its impact factor of 5.0 within the Nature Index.

    Dr Barman’s research delves into the enigmatic realm of dark matter, proposing a novel mechanism through which dark matter might interact with the visible universe via a hypothesised fifth force. This interaction could provide vital insights into the nature of dark matter and its elusive characteristics. The study suggests that if this interaction is confirmed, experiments exploring the existence of a fifth force could concurrently unravel the mysteries surrounding dark matter, leading to a deeper understanding of the universe.

    This publication not only highlights the potential for new discoveries in particle physics but also positions SRM University-AP at the forefront of cutting-edge research in dark matter studies. Dr. Barman’s findings could pave the way for further exploration and experimental validation, ultimately contributing to the ongoing quest to decode one of the universe’s greatest mysteries.

    Abstract:

    We investigate dark matter (DM-)electron scattering in a minimal U〖(1)〗_X extension of the Standard Model (SM), where the DM can appear as a Majorana fermion, a complex singlet scalar, or a Dirac fermion. To study bounds on the new gauge coupling and new gauge boson mass, from DM-electron scattering, we consider several direct search experiments like CDMS, DAMIC, SENSEI, PandaX-II, DarkSide-50, and XENON1T-S2 for different U〖(1)〗_X charges. In this setup, we consider DM production via freeze-in in both radiation-dominated and modified cosmological backgrounds to project sensitivities onto coupling vs mass plane satisfying observed relic abundance. DM-electron scattering could provide comparable, or even stronger, bounds compared to those obtained from the electron/muon (g-2), low-energy scattering, and intensity frontier experiments within mass range of 0.01-0.1 GeV. Constrains from freeze-in could provide stronger sensitivities for new gauge boson masses above about 1 GeV ; however, these limits are comparable to those obtained from LHCb and LEP experiments for mass between 10-150 GeV. In the future, electron-muon scattering (MUonE), proton (FASER and DUNE), and electron/positron (ILC) beam-dump experiments could probe these parameters.

    From Layperson’s perspective:

    We know there are four fundamental forces in nature: strong, weak, electromagnetic, and gravitational. But what if there’s a hidden, fifth force we haven’t discovered yet? The Standard Model of particle physics, which organizes all known particles, doesn’t include this fifth force (and doesn’t include gravity either, unfortunately). So, how can we theoretically create a particle physics model for this possible fifth force? That’s what we explore in this paper. Interestingly, there are already experiments (for example, the Large Hadron Collider or LHC at CERN, Geneva) searching for signs of fifth forces. If this force exists, our model could be tested by these experiments. But there’s more! We also wanted to tackle a big mystery in cosmology: dark matter. Dark matter makes up about 24% of the universe, but we’ve never directly detected it because it doesn’t reflect light—it’s “dark.” However, there are smart ways to try to find it. In this paper, we propose how the same dark matter might interact with the visible universe through this fifth force and thereby leave their footprints. If true, therefore, the experiments looking for the fifth force could also give us clues about the nature of dark matter.

    Title:

    Dark matter-electron scattering and freeze-in scenarios in the light of Z’ mediation.

    In BibTeX (citation) format:

    @article{PhysRevD.110.055029,
    title = {Dark matter-electron scattering and freeze-in scenarios in the light of ${Z}^{\ensuremath{‘}}$ mediation},
    author = {Barman, Basabendu and Das, Arindam and Mandal, Sanjoy},
    journal = {Phys. Rev. D},
    volume = {110},
    issue = {5},
    pages = {055029},
    numpages = {20},
    year = {2024},
    month = {Sep},
    publisher = {American Physical Society},
    doi = {10.1103/PhysRevD.110.055029},
    url = {https://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevD.110.055029}
    }

    Practical Implementations & Social Impact:

    The primary goal of this study is to explore what lies beyond the known, visible universe. This curiosity has driven humanity for centuries—to build rockets and explore outer space and to smash particles in colliders, searching for the mysteries hidden within the atom. The desire to uncover the unknown, to shed light on the darkness, is a fundamental part of what it means to be human. In this sense, the work contributes to the realm of pure intellectual pursuit. Science speaks the language of data, and data is born from experiments. The validation of any well-constructed theory ultimately depends on experimental evidence. For this reason, it is essential for society to cultivate a culture that values fundamental scientific discussion and increases funding for basic research.

    Collaborations:

    This work was done in collaboration with Prof. Arindam Das from the Department of Physics, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan, and Dr. Sanjoy Mandal from the Korea Institute for Advanced Study (KIAS), Seoul, Korea.

    Future plans:

    1. A closer look into early universe dynamics by performing more involved simulations.
    2. Connection between particle physics models and early Universe cosmology.
    3. Complementary searches from different experiments in unravelling new physics beyond the Standard Model.
    4. Searching new physics at energy and intensity frontier.

    Link to the Paper

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  • Dr Sayantan’s Research Paper on Overcoming the Digital Divide October 4, 2024

    In the context of online English education in India, the “digital divide” has emerged as a significant obstacle, especially for students from rural or underprivileged areas. Dr Sayantan Thakur, Assistant Professor at the Department of Literature and Languages in his article introduces a research study titled “Navigating the Digital Divide: Challenges and Strategies in Teaching Communicative English Online in Indian Classrooms,” which aims to address the unequal access to online learning tools.

    Abstract

    The advent of online learning platforms is providing new opportunities for English language learning (ELL) in India. However, there is a significant challenge posed by the digital divide – the gap in accessing technology. This study investigates what causes the digital divide in internet ELL classrooms such as infrastructure limitations, device ownership and usage, and digital literacy skills; and how they affect student engagement, development of communication skills, and overall learning experiences. It suggests ways to bridge this gap which include government policies on infrastructure development; affordable tech solutions like mobile apps; teaching programs that enhance digital literacy among learners; support for teachers involved in web-based pedagogy. Through these recommendations, education stakeholders can create an inclusive cyberspace for all students where their communication abilities will be nurtured throughout different parts of India.

    The Practical Implementation

    The practical implementation of your research on “Navigating the Digital Divide: Challenges and Strategies in Teaching Communicative English Online in Indian Classrooms” has far-reaching social implications. By addressing the digital divide, your work can help level the playing field in education, especially for students from underprivileged backgrounds.

    Improved Access to Education: Implementing strategies like infrastructure development, affordable mobile-based learning tools, and digital literacy programmes can provide more students, especially in rural and low-income areas, access to online English learning resources. This improves their chances of acquiring essential communication skills, opening doors to better job opportunities.

    Empowering Teachers: Equipping teachers with digital tools and training enables them to deliver more effective online lessons, increasing student engagement and success rates.

    Reducing Inequality: Bridging the technology gap can reduce educational disparities between urban and rural areas, promoting social mobility and reducing the long-term impacts of inequality.

    Building a Digitally Literate Society: Enhancing digital literacy among students and teachers fosters a society better prepared for the demands of the modern workforce, ultimately contributing to economic growth and social inclusion.

    Future Research Plans

    • Regional Literature in Translation
    • Tantric Tradition and Eastern Indian Literature
    • Folk Music of Bengal
    • Indian Philosophy, Aesthetics & Literature

    The link to the article

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  • A Sustainable Greywater Treatment Method October 3, 2024

    Addressing the ever-demanding crisis of water scarcity, Dr Mohit Aggarwal, Assistant Professor from the Department of Civil Engineering, has published a paper titled “Polyculture Microalgae and Zno/GAC-nanocomposite System for Greywater Treatment” in the Q1 journal Biomass and Bioenergy with an impact factor of 5.8. In his research, Dr Aggarwal explores sustainable methods to treat wastewater with algae and nanoparticles, providing an efficient method to reuse greywater and reduce water consumption.

    Abstract

    This study explores sustainable greywater treatment using microalgae and a ZnO/GAC nanocomposite in a 15-day batch photobioreactor. The system achieved significant nutrient removal, with 80% TOC, 94.2% PO43−, and 99.6% NH4+ efficiencies. Microalgal growth was enhanced by the nanocomposite, reaching a density of 1.8 g/L. The resulting biomass had a high heating value of 18.32 MJ/kg. The ZnO/GAC nanocomposite maintained effective removal over four cycles. The treated greywater met reuse standards for toilet flushing, with pH 8.5, turbidity <4 NTU, and COD, NH4+, and PO43− of 34, 0.032, and 0.48 mg/L, respectively.

    Explanation of the research in layperson’s terms

    Water scarcity and pollution are serious problems, and our research aims to find an environmentally friendly way to treat greywater (wastewater from sinks, showers, etc.). We explored the use of algae combined with special nanoparticles (zinc oxide) to clean the water more effectively. The algae grow in the water and help remove harmful substances like carbon, phosphorus, and nitrogen. The nanoparticles make this process even more efficient.

    After treatment, the water is clean enough to be reused, for example, in toilet flushing. This method not only helps clean wastewater but also provides a sustainable way to reuse it, which can reduce water consumption and help the environment.

    Practical implementation/ Social implications of the research

    Practical implementation

    The system developed in this research can be implemented in decentralised greywater treatment units, especially in water-scarce areas. It provides a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution for treating household or industrial greywater. The treated water meets the quality standards for reuse in applications like toilet flushing or landscape irrigation, reducing freshwater demand.

    Social implications

    This research promotes water recycling, contributing to sustainable water management practices and helping to address water scarcity issues. This can improve access to water in communities with limited resources, reduce the pressure on freshwater supplies, and lower the environmental impact of wastewater discharge, leading to healthier ecosystems and communities. Additionally, adopting such systems on a larger scale can foster greater awareness of water conservation and responsible resource usage.

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  • Dr Kousik Das Receives Project Sanctioned by the Ministry of Earth Science September 27, 2024

    Dr Kousik Das, Assistant Professor from the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering has been sanctioned the project titled “Present Day and predicted physico-chemical and climate change influence on solute influx to Northern Bay of Bengal and its impact on biotic system”. sanctioned by the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) of the Ministry of Earth Science, Govt. of India. Dr Kousik Das has been granted Rs. 42,42,000 as CO-PI for Rs. 1,89,19,100/- worth project, which will be undertaken in collaboration with researchers from esteemed institutes such as IIT Kharagpur and IISc Bangalore.

    Explanation of the research in layperson’s terms

    The proposed research work consists of a quantitative and qualitative study of seasonal solute geochemistry of ocean water and biotic diversity in marine ecosystems, along with scenarios of predicted oceanic circulation pathways at present times and futuristic cases expected in a changing climate. The study will be done by coupling physical and chemical hydrogeological techniques, which include the installation of marine observation stations and field equipment after the generation of the conceptual framework. The project will work towards making the scientific community more acquainted with the hydrodynamics and chemodynamics of the Bay of Bengal ocean water.

    Practical implementation/ Social implications of your research

    Seawater characteristics in the head of the Bay of Bengal are rapidly evolving due to changing influx from terrestrial sources. In particular, the head Bay region has undergone rapid variations in water quality due to extreme climate conditions, sea level rise, tidal impact, and effects of ocean acidification. Our aim is to hypothesise the climatic and hydrological processes involved in altering the ocean water nutrient and trace element cycling and their subsequent impact on the marine biohabitat.

    Future research plans

    • Nutrient cycle of northern Bay of Bengal
    • Trace element cycle of the Bay of Bengal
    • Impact of climate change on biogeochemical cycle
    • Impact of hydrological drivers on marine ecosystems
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  • SMAFS Technology Gets Patented September 26, 2024

    Dr Anirban Ghosh and his BTech students, Mr Taraka Sai Tanishq Chebrolu and Mr V.M.V.S. Aditya from his department, have come up with a pathbreaking innovation where a Smart Face Shield (SMAFS) helps detect a virus and reminds the wearer to maintain a safe distance. This innovation, patented under the Indian Patent Office Journal, with application number-202241000990 , marks a milestone step towards public health and safety.

    Abstract:

    The recent spurt of corona virus has wreaked havoc across the globe and led to huge loss of human lives. An intelligent system with innovative technologies can be implemented to address the rapid spread of the deadly virus. The wearable face shield that can not only help to maintain appropriate social distancing in a crowded place but also to identify a person with preliminary symptoms of corona virus. It is designed as a technically improved face shield to maintain social distancing by appropriate use of proximity sensor and to measure temperature of the wearer by using contact temperature sensor. LED’s and buzzer are placed strategically to alert people via visual and audio signals respectively. Such precautionary detection and proximity alert prototype can prove instrumental in early diagnosis and isolation aiding in crowd management and free movement in places of social gathering.

    Practical Implementation of the Patent:

    Such precautionary detection and proximity alert prototype can prove instrumental in early diagnosis and isolation aiding in crowd management and free movement in places of social gathering. Hence, wearable face shield ensures adequate separation between persons and facilitates temperature monitoring and early disease detection.

    Future Research Plans:

    Future research plans are to further improve the capability of the existing prototype for example integration of oxygen saturation measurement, Heartbeat, Blood pleasure, Temperature, Location, etc of the user. In the event of an emergency or critical drop in any of the vitals, the system can automatically alert the local hospital, ambulance service, and relatives.

     

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  • From Concept to Reality: The Promising Future of AlN-GDC-HEMT in Electronics September 25, 2024

    The Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, SRM University-AP, is pleased to announce that Assistant Professor Dr Durga Prakash has published a noteworthy research paper titled “A Novel LG=40 nm AlN-GDC-HEMT on SiC Wafer with fT/IDS,peak of 400 GHz/3.18 mA/mm for Future RF Power Amplifiers.” This accomplishment reflects Dr Durga Prakash’s expertise and dedication to advancing research in the field and further enriching the academic contributions of the varsity.

    Abstract:

    This study presents the initial RF/DC performance of innovative AlN/GaN/Graded-AlGaN/GaN double-channel HEMT (AlN-GDC-HEMT) on SiC wafer. Traditional AlGaN/GaN/Graded-AlGaN/GaN double-channel HEMTs (AlGaN-GDC-HEMT) and the AlN-GDC-HEMT are compared. Both devices form two quantum wells, resulting in prominent double peaks in transconductance and cut-off frequency graphs, demonstrating efficient inter-channel communication. AlN-GDC-HEMT and AlGaN-GDC-HEMT are compared based on gate recess length (LR) and top barrier thickness. Gate lengths (LG) are also used to study HEMT scaling. Additionally, gate engineering and lateral scaling affect both devices’ DC/RF behaviour. Based on rigorous comparison investigation, the AlN-GDC-HEMT outperforms the AlGaN-GDC-HEMT due to its higher polarization (spontaneous) density and larger bandgap. The optimized AlN-GDC-HEMT with LG = 40 nm, LGS = 250 nm, and LGD = 400 nm has high performance, with transconductance (GM) values of 203.1 and 787.5 mS/mm at two peaks, IDS_peak of 1.97 A/mm, IDS_sat of 3.18 A/mm, and the highest fT of 285.1 and 416.8 GHz from the left and right peaks First-stage results suggest AlN-GDC-HEMTs could be used in future RF power amplifiers.

    Practical & Social Implications of the Research:

    It can be concluded that the AlN-GDC-HEMT that has been proposed is extremely promising, as it possesses remarkable performance and is appealing for power microwave GaN-based HEMT production. This highlights the fact that it is suitable for a broad variety of high-performance applications.

    Collaborations:

    Department of ECE, Faculty of Science and Technology (IcfaiTech), ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education Hyderabad, Hyderabad-501203, India.

    Future Research Plans:

    Novel semiconductor device development

     

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  • Dr Rupesh Kumar Secures Major Research Grant for Amazon Forest Canopy Mapping Project September 24, 2024

    In a groundbreaking development, Dr Rupesh Kumar, a Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, has been awarded a significant project titled “Mapping the Canopy of the Amazon Forest Using an Aerial Drone Platform Coupled with Radar Sensors.” The initiative, funded by the International Peruvian National Research Institute, boasts an impressive outlay of Rs. 1.11 Crores and is set to span over a two-year period.

    The project is spearheaded by Principal Investigator Dr Mark Donny Clemente Arenas, an Associate Professor at the National Technological University of South Lima in Peru. This collaboration aims to enhance the understanding of the Amazon’s intricate canopy structure and promote conservation efforts through innovative technology.

    In recognition of this notable achievement, SRM University-AP proudly congratulated Dr Kumar and highlighted the significant impact this project could have on environmental research and sustainability. The university’s support underscores its commitment to fostering research initiatives that address global challenges, encouraging faculty members to pursue innovative solutions through collaboration and the application of cutting-edge technology.

    This initiative marks a significant milestone in international research collaboration, leveraging technology to address critical environmental challenges in one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.

    A Brief Description of the Project

    This project facilitates the mapping of the Amazon forest in Peru. An integrated approach of advanced sensors such as LiDAR, Millimeter-Wave Radar, Camera, etc. and UAV will achieve this.
    This will help assess the Amazon forest’s health in real time by leveraging the ML/AI approaches.

    Figure 1: Scheme for height estimation

    Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms

    The plant/tree generally reflects radio waves and other signals, and this reflection depends on the density of the forest. If a suitable signal processing is applied to the reflected signals, it will provide insight information about the forest profile. Nevertheless, this will help in the quantification of land covered by trees, identifying the location of those trees. Consequently, the tree canopy assessments help in determining the amount and location of impervious cover.

    Funding Agency and Amount Sanctioned

    National Scientific Research and Advanced Studies Program (PROCIENCIA) of the National Council for Science, Technology and Technological Innovation (CONCYTEC), Peru.

    In Spanish: “ Programa Nacional de Investigación Cientifica y Estudios Avanzados (PROCIENCIA), del Consejo Nacional de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación
    Tecnológica (CONCYTEC), Perú”.

    Practical Implementation of the Research or the Social Implications Associated with it

    The proposed research work help will help in the assessment of deforestation as well as its impact on climate change and global warming. Not only this, but the research will also contribute to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050!

    Collaborations

    Universidad Nacional Tecnológica de Lima Sur
    Collaborator: Prof. Mark Clement Arenas

    Future Research Plans

    In future, this work will be extended for infrastructure monitoring. With the boom in real estate, a continuous monitoring system is desired for proper maintenance.

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  • Dr Jaidev Kaushik’s Publishes New Publication on Graphene Incorporated Aerogels September 24, 2024

    Dr Jaidev Kaushik, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, has recently published a pioneering research paper in the prestigious journal Langmuir (ACS). The paper, titled “Graphene Incorporated Sugar-derived Carbon Aerogel for Pyridine Adsorption and Oil-Water Separation,” explores innovative applications of graphene-based materials.

    Dr Kaushik’s research focuses on the development of a novel carbon aerogel derived from sugar and incorporated with graphene. This material demonstrates exceptional efficiency in adsorbing pyridine, a harmful organic compound, and effectively separating oil from water. These findings hold significant promise for environmental remediation and industrial applications, offering a sustainable solution to pollution and waste management challenges.

    The publication of this paper in Langmuir highlights the cutting-edge research being conducted at SRM University-AP and underscores Dr Kaushik’s contributions to the field of chemistry. His work not only advances scientific understanding but also paves the way for practical applications that can benefit society at large.

    Abstract

    In this report, we have synthesized three-dimensional and hydrophobic graphene-incorporated carbon aerogel (G-SCA) derived from sugar. G-SCA is being used as a multifunctional sorbent material for removing various advanced water soluble and insoluble pollutants Initially, G-SCA is being explored for the adsorption of nitrophenols, nitroaromatics (3-nitroaniline), insecticide (Phoskill), antibiotic (ciprofloxacin), and pharmaceutical drug precursor (pyridine). Later, same G-SCA is also explored in the absorption of various protic and aprotic organic solvents and oils (including crude oil, waste cooking oil, and waste Mobil oil), with excellent recyclability checked up to 10 cycles. Moreover, oil-water separation experiments are also being done in various industrial wastewater samples and seawater to support the real-life accessibility of present approach. Large-scale applicability of G-SCA is also checked by performing crude oil-seawater separation experiments using a laboratory-scale prototype demonstrating the successful continuous recovery of crude oil.

    Explanation of The Research in Layperson’s Terms

    This research demonstrates the synthesis of carbon aerogel from edible sugar followed by the incorporation of graphene oxide to make a near superhydrophobic and good water-floating sorbent material. Later, this sorbent material was used to decontaminate wastewater from advanced pollutants such as explosive wastes, expired antibiotics, pharmaceutical waste, insecticides, etc. This report also showed the practical demonstration of crude oil recovery from seawater, thus contributing to the circular economy process.

    Title of Research Paper in the Citation Format

    F. Agrawal, K. Gupta, J. Kaushik, K. M. Tripathi, S. K. Choudhary, S. K. Sonkar, Graphene Incorporated Sugar Derived Carbon Aerogel for Pyridine Adsorption and Oil–Water Separation, Langmuir 2024, 40, 18028–18038.

    Practical Implementation or the Social Implications Associated with the Research

    This work describes the synthesis of low-cost near superhydrophobic carbon aerogel, displaying its multiple applications in wastewater treatment from water-soluble and water-insoluble pollutants. It is also an alternative and cost-effective approach for recovering valuable oil and organic compounds from water rather than degrading or destroying them so they can be reused.

    Collaborations

    Dr Sumit Kumar Sonkar (MNIT Jaipur, India)

    Future Research Plans

    1. The adsorption/photodegradation-assisted quick and efficient removal of next generation advanced pollutants such as microplastic, pesticides, pharmaceutical waste, etc. by hydrophobic carbon aerogel and their doped and functionalised versions.
    2. Utilizing waste derived heterogeneous catalysts in organic transformation reactions.
    3. Selective sensing of toxic metal ions/biomarkers/biomolecules using fluorescent nanomaterials.
    4. Upcycling of carbonates/CO2 via photo/thermal assisted reactions to get C1 and C2 hydrocarbons (green fuel).

    Link to the Article

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  • Unveiling Innovations: Dr Ghosh Publishes Findings on 300 GHz Communication Links September 24, 2024

    Dr Anirban Ghosh, an esteemed Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, has recently published a significant research paper titled “Channel Modeling and Characterization of Access, D2D, and Backhaul Links in a Corridor Environment at 300 GHz.” This paper has been featured in the prestigious Q1 Journal, IEEE Transactions on Antenna and Propagation, with an impressive impact factor of 4.6.
    Dr Ghosh’s research delves into the intricate aspects of channel modelling and characterisation, focusing on access, device-to-device (D2D), and backhaul links within a corridor environment at a high frequency of 300 GHz. This study is poised to make substantial contributions to the field of wireless communication, particularly in enhancing the understanding and development of next-generation communication systems.
    The publication in such a renowned journal underscores the quality and impact of Dr. Ghosh’s work, reflecting the cutting-edge research being conducted at SRM University – AP. The university community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Ghosh for this remarkable achievement and looks forward to his continued contributions to the field of electronics and communication engineering.

    Abstract:

    This paper presents comprehensive double-directional channel measurements at 300 GHz across various corridor scenarios, including Access, Device-to-Device (D2D), and Backhaul, using an in-house developed channel sounder. The measurements, validated by ray tracing simulations, reveal that while 300 GHz quasi-optical propagation in corridors can be modeled using ray optics, non-trivial propagation phenomena, such as quadruple-bounce reflections, also occur. To accurately model these mechanisms, a quasi-deterministic (QD) channel model combining deterministic and random components is proposed. The QD model results align well with observations, highlighting similar propagation mechanisms for Access and D2D scenarios, while Backhaul scenarios show Line-of-Sight (LoS) impacts from ceiling reflections. These findings are crucial for designing next-generation THz communication systems.

    Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms

    This research contributes to building the next generation of communication networks, which will significantly impact society by improving connectivity, supporting technological advancements, and promoting economic development, and bringing forth several futuristic applications.

    Practical Implementation

    The results align with the design of high-frequency ultra-high speed, low-latency, reliable communication envisioned for several futuristic applications using beyond 5G and 6G networks.

     

    The measurement scenarios explored in the paper.

    Collaborations

    Prof. Minseok Kim
    Professor, Faculty of Engineering, Course of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
    Niigata University, Japan.
    e-mail: mskim@eng.niigata-u.ac.jp

    Future Research Plans

    The efforts would be extended to other communication scenarios for a similar study. Additionally, generating appropriate channel models, coverage design, link budget, etc for the explored and unexplored scenarios would also encompass an interesting study.

    Link to the Article

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  • Dr Nilakantha Meher’s Research Uses Light to Improve Object Detection Precision September 5, 2024

    Dr Nilkantha Meher, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at SRM University-AP, has significantly contributed to science with his research paper on using thermal light to detect objects with unmatched precision. This phenomenal work that featured in the journal Physical Review A will positively contribute to the fields of sensing, gravitational wave detection, and phase microscopy.

    Abstract:

    Estimation of the phase delay between interferometer arms is the core of transmission phase microscopy. Such phase estimation may exhibit an error below the standard quantum (shot-noise) limit, if the input is an entangled two-mode state, e.g., a N00N state. We show, by contrast, that such supersensitive phase estimation (SSPE) is achievable by incoherent, e.g., thermal, light that is injected into a Mach-Zehnder interferometer via a Kerr-nonlinear two-mode coupler. The phase error is shown to be reduced below, being the mean photon number, by thermal input in such interferometric setups, even for small nonlinear phase-shifts per photon pair or for significant photon loss. Remarkably, the phase accuracy achievable in such setups by thermal input surpasses that of coherent light with the same. Available mode couplers with giant Kerr nonlinearity that stems either from dipole-dipole interactions of Rydberg polaritons in cold atomic gas or from cavity-enhanced dispersive atom-field interactions may exploit such effects to substantially advance the interferometric phase microscopy using incoherent, faint light sources.

    Practical Implementation:

    The proposed nonlinear interferometer in this research can serve as a robust quantum sensor, making it suitable for a range of applications, including object sensing, gravitational wave detection, and phase microscopy.

    Your Collaborations:

    Prof. Gershon Kurizki (Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel)
    Prof. Tomas Opatrny (Palacky University, Czech Republic)
    Dr. Eilon Poem (Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel)
    Prof. Ofer Firstenberg (Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel)

    Future Research Plans:

    He is currently investigating the sensing of quantum entanglement and generating highly nonclassical states using various nonlinear interferometers. This research has significant implications for distributed quantum communication and quantum information processing.

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