Research News

In a significant scientific endeavour, Dr Maheshwar Dwivedy, Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Dr B Prasanna Nagasai, Post-Doctoral Researcher have jointly authored a research paper titled “Metallurgical Characteristics of AA6061 Aluminium and AZ31B Magnesium Dissimilar Joints by Fusion Welding Technique”. Their work delves into the metallurgical properties of dissimilar joints formed by fusion welding between AA6061 aluminium and AZ31B magnesium.

The study, published in the esteemed Q1 journal “Microscopy Research and Technique”, sheds light on the intricate interactions between these two dissimilar materials. By employing advanced microscopy techniques, the researchers meticulously examined the weld interfaces, grain structures, and elemental compositions. Their findings contribute to our understanding of the joining behaviour and intermetallic formation in such hybrid joints.

This collaborative effort exemplifies SRM University – AP’s commitment to cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary exploration. As the scientific community continues to unravel the mysteries of material behaviour, Dr Dwivedy and Dr Nagasai’s work stands as a beacon of knowledge and innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking research!

Abstract

Aluminium (Al) and magnesium (Mg) alloys are extensively used in the automobile sector because of their high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent castability, low density and simplicity of recycling. Al-Mg structures that automotive uses have a big chance of lowering their weight. Although there is a significant opportunity for substantial cost reduction, the use of magnesium in aluminium structures remains restricted. This study aims to weld 3 mm-thick rolled sheets of AA6061 Al and AZ31B Mg alloy using the cold metal transfer (CMT) arc welding process. Three different filler wires (ER1100, ER4043, and ER5356) were used in the experiment. In this article, the mechanical and microstructure characteristics of Al/Mg dissimilar joints manufactured by CMT are evaluated and discussed in depth. Optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction were all used to analyse the CMT-welded Al/Mg dissimilar joints. Of the three filler wires used, ER4043 (Al-5%Si) filler wire yielded defect-free sound joints due to the presence of Si, which improves the flow ability of molten filler during welding. The Al/Mg dissimilar weld still produced the Mg-rich intermetallic (IM) Al12Mg17 and the Al-rich IM Al3Mg2. The surfaces of the fractured area of the CMT-welded Al/Mg dissimilar joints revealed the presence of the Mg-rich intermetallics (Al12Mg17), which is responsible for the decrease in tensile strength. The reduction of intermetallics, particularly of Mg-rich intermetallics (Al12Mg17) is important for improving joint strength.

Highlights

• Cold metal transfer (CMT) arc welding was used to control the Al-Mg-rich intermetallics in the Al/Mg dissimilar joints.
• The microstructure, morphology and phase composition of the welded joints were studied by OM, SEM, TEM, EDS and XRD.
• The weld metal and AL substrate are joined with a strong interface, while the weld metal and Mg substrate are joined with an epitaxial solidification area where the intermetallic compounds of Mg2Al3, Mg17Al12 and Mg2Si are generated.
• The weld metal on the Mg side experienced a brittle fracture, with a continuous distribution of Mg2Al3, Mg17Al12 and Mg2Si.

Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms

Al and Mg alloys are extensively used as light metals in engineering due to their advantageous characteristics, including high strength-to-weight ratio, cheap casting costs, low density, excellent machinability, and simple recyclability. Often, each of these materials fails to meet the criteria for lightweight buildings. Consequently, there is a high need for a significant quantity of Al/Mg hybrid structures in many industrial sectors with a particular emphasis on the automotive industry. Choosing the appropriate filler material for joining Al and Mg is crucial for creating robust weldments. The main difficulty in welding dissimilar metals like aluminium and magnesium lies in the formation of inflexible and brittle intermetallic compounds (IMCs) like Mg2Al3 and Mg17Al12, which severely affect the joint’s strength. When it comes to melting points, magnesium is at 650°C and aluminium is at 660°C. Based on the Mg-Al binary phase diagram, the compounds Mg2Al3 and Mg17Al12 can be produced at 450 and 437°C by eutectic reaction. Hence, the primary challenge in Al/Mg dissimilar welding is effectively suppressing the growing number of IMCs. Similarly, minimising energy input and utilising the appropriate chemistry of wire are the primary methods for decreasing the formation of IMCs and improving joint strength.

CMT is an advanced arc welding process which comes under controlled short circuiting transfer mode. The CMT welding cycle consists of two phases, i.e. the arcing phase and short circuit phase. In arcing phase, the filler wire gets melted and it forms as a droplet at the tip of the filler wire. In short circuiting phase, the droplet bridges the gap between the electrode and the weld pool. Once the short circuiting takes place, the filler wire gets retracted backward due to the retraction force and the droplet is detached from the filler wire. In conventional short circuiting transfer mode, the electromagnetic pinch force assists in detaching the droplet from the filler wire and thereby high heat input is produced by means of the short current. Where as in CMT short circuit transfer mode, the welding current is decreased to a lower value whenever a short circuit signal is sensed by the power source and the droplet gets separated from the filler wire with the help of the retraction force that is generated during the backward movement of the filler wire. Finally, the heat input is reduced to a lower value with this metal transfer mode. So, the CMT arc welding process was used to join the 3 mm-thick rolled sheets of AA6061 Al and AZ31B Mg alloy dissimilar materials. This article details the microstructural characteristics of an Al/Mg dissimilar joint. The CMT process controlled IMCs in the Al/Mg dissimilar joint and increased weld metal hardness compared to base metal.

The title of Research Paper in the Citation Format

aAddanki Ramaswamy, *aBellamkonda Prasanna Nagasai, aMaheshwar Dwivedy, Sudersanan Malarvizhi, Visvalingam Balasubramanian, Metallurgical Characteristics of AA6061 Aluminium and AZ31B Magnesium Dissimilar Joints by Fusion Welding Technique, Microscopy research and technique, 2024. DOI: 10.1002/JEMT.24510.
Corresponding Author: Bellamkonda Prasanna Nagasai

Collaborations

Dr. V. Balasubramanian, Professor & Director, Centre for Materials Joining & Research (CEMAJOR) Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar-608002, Tamilnadu

Future Research Plans:

Planning to work on Fusion Welding (CMT, MIG, TIG, LASER, PLASMA and EBW) and Solid State Welding Processes (FSW, Rotary Friction Welding, Resistance Spot Welding, Magnetic Pulse Welding). Working on Additive Manufacturing (Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing on Metals, 3D Printing on Plastics), Cladding and Machinability. Characterisation, Tribology, and Corrosion. Steels and alloys, Aluminum, Nickel and Titanium Alloys.

Continue reading →

A translated work must retain the essence and flavour of regional culture and locales. A good translator tries to reproduce the particularities that are ingrained within the texts. On this note, Dr Bidisha Pal, Assistant Professor from the Department of Literature and Languages, has published a paper, “Delving into a Translator’s Journey of Translating Marginalised Voices of Bengal: An Insightful Discussion with V Ramaswamy” in Meta Journal des traducteurs Translators’ Journal. This research revolves around a discussion with the well-known translator V Ramaswamy, a noted name in Bengali Dalit literature and translation. Ramaswamy shares his thoughts on working on the translation projects that he enjoys doing and that establish the cause of the marginalised people of Bengal.

Abstract

In this interview discussion with Bidisha Pal and Md. Mojibur Rahman, translator V Ramaswamy focuses on the journey of his translation and tryst with the marginalised Dalit voice(s) in Bengal. He speaks about the writings that propel him to choose translating and to carry voice(s) beyond the Bengal arena, thus dissolving language barriers. The deliberate choice to translate various pieces representing various periods acts as a witness to his existence as an independent translator. According to him, translation is also a source of healing to deal with a tragic past and the complicacies that life often presents to him. He shares his experience translating Subimal Mishra, the powerful poet who speaks for marginalised people. Ramaswamy, as he states in the interview, makes a vow to translate Mishra’s whole writing career. He talks about translating Manoranjan Byapari, a Bengali Dalit prize-winning author and political persona who has also championed the Dalit cause in Bengal, Adhir Biswas, the story-writer and publisher of a publishing house in Kolkata Gangchil that publishes writings by those literary personas who do not fall, as such, into the category of the mainstream, Bangladeshi writer Shahidul Zahir whose revolutionary voice and zeal reverberate in the literary world of Bangladesh, as well as Ansaruddin, a writer and farmer by profession whose works Ramaswamy is currently translating. Despite not being a part of the literary world, Ramaswamy has built an intense connection with literature and has gradually become part of the world. For him, translation is something that has to remain faithful to the source text, especially if people are doing literary translation.

Practical implementation/social implications of the research

The research contains elements that are connected with the values of the society. It discusses the nuances of translation of the writings of marginalised people, which contain many unforeseen truths of society, and depicts the struggles for the existence of the people. The translator is doing a commendable job compiling the writing thorough translation that will act as a bridge to the unfamiliar audience who could feel connected with the marginalised people.

Dr Bidisha aims to publish many more articles in the diverse interdisciplinary fields of literature, edit books, and attend conferences.

Link to the article

Continue reading →

Mindfulness has emerged as a pivotal aspect in the domain of mental health, especially in the context of children and adolescents’ well-being. It refers to an inherent ability to be fully present in the moment, enabling an individual to gain an acute sense of awareness without any biases. Such a state of mindfulness empowers individuals to navigate the ups and downs of life with clarity and composure. Dr M Dhamodharan, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology, has published a book chapter titled “Mindfulness for Child and Adolescent Well-Being: A Comprehensive Exploration of Strategies and Outcomes,” where he has comprehensively explored the intricacies of mindfulness and its impact on children and adolescents.

Here’s an abstract of the chapter published in the book, “Promoting Mindfulness and Well-Being with Indian Psychology.”

About the book chapter

The chapter examines the significant impact of mindfulness on children and adolescents. Mindfulness is the mental state defined by greater concentration, consciousness, and focus on the here and now, free from judgment. This chapter starts with the theoretical background of mindfulness and the current developments of mindfulness related to children’s and adolescents’ wellbeing. There are three main domains focused on mindfulness. Begin with emotional domains—that explains how mindfulness helps to regulate emotions. Secondly, cognitive domains explain how mindfulness practices help cognitive development and academic performance in educational settings. Thirdly, social and interpersonal domains explain the uses of mindfulness to improve social skills and interpersonal relationships with peer groups, family, and society. The chapter concludes with the role of parental and educational institutions in promoting mindfulness among children and adolescents to create a positive impact on their lives.

Dr Dhamodharan’s book chapter is targeted at Educators, parents, counsellors, and mental health specialists who stand to gain invaluable insights from the exploration of mindfulness within these pages.

Link to the book chapter

Link to the book

Continue reading →

In a significant academic accomplishment, Dr Ramanjaneya Reddy, Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, along with UG students Ms Mehataj Syed and Mr Busam Gopichand, have recently published a groundbreaking paper titled “A Three Leg Asymmetrical Voltage Resonant Converter with Independent Dimming Control for Multiple Load LED Lighting Applications” in the esteemed Q1 journal IEEE Transactions on Industry Applications. The journal boasts an impressive impact factor of 4.4, further underscoring the importance of this research contribution.

The paper delves into the development of a novel Three Leg Asymmetrical Voltage Resonant Converter that offers independent dimming control for multiple load LED lighting applications. This innovation holds great promise for enhancing the efficiency and versatility of LED lighting systems, paving the way for more sustainable and adaptable lighting solutions in various industrial applications.

Dr Ramanjaneya Reddy’s leadership and the collaborative efforts of Ms Mehataj Syed and Mr Busam Gopichand have culminated in this significant publication, which not only adds to the body of knowledge in the field but also showcases the talent and dedication of the researchers at the department.

This achievement highlights the commitment to excellence and innovation within the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, positioning it as a hub for cutting-edge research and academic prowess. The impact of this research is expected to reverberate across the industry, contributing to advancements in LED lighting technology and its applications.

The publication of this paper underscores the quality and rigour of the research solidifying their reputation as leaders in the field. This accomplishment is a testament to the department’s commitment to pushing boundaries and making meaningful contributions to the field of electrical engineering.

Congratulations to Dr Ramanjaneya Reddy, Ms Mehataj Syed, and Mr Busam Gopichand on this remarkable achievement, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact of their research in the field.

Abstract

This work proposes a three-leg asymmetrical voltage resonant converter for multiple load Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting applications. The proposed converter is developed with a common leg-1 for both load-1 and load-2. The load-1 is powered from asymmetrical voltage between leg-1 and leg-2. Similarly, load-2 is powered from asymmetrical voltage between leg-1 and leg-3. The proposed circuit provides the following major contributions: (1) Independent dimming control of LED loads; (2) Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) of all power switches; (3) High efficiency; and (4) Asymmetrical voltage regulation. To achieve independent dimming control, the voltages between legs are made zero by dimming leg-2 and leg-3 independently. Two resonant circuits are connected in the proposed circuit. Owing to this all the power switches operate with ZVS, which reduces the switching losses. Further, two LED lamps are connected in series with battery sources to supply the threshold voltage to lamps which in turn results in a lower power processing of the converter.

Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms

This work proposes a three-leg asymmetrical voltage resonant converter with independent dimming control for multiple load LED lighting applications. The proposed converter drives multiple loads independently with a dimming feature. The converter is developed with leg-1 is common for both LED loads. The major contributions of the proposed LED driver are independent dimming control, asymmetrical voltage regulation, zero voltage switching of all the power switches, and high efficiency. The threshold voltage of LED loads is supplied by batteries connected in series with LED loads, which will help in lower power processing of the proposed converter. Further, due to soft switching technology implemented in this converter, it reduces the losses in the system considerably increasing efficiency.

Title of Research Paper in the Citation Format

A Three Leg Asymmetrical Voltage Resonant Converter with Independent Dimming Control for Multiple Load LED Lighting Applications.

Citation: Ramanjaneya Reddy Udumula, et. al, “A Three Leg Asymmetrical Voltage Resonant Converter with Independent Dimming Control for Multiple Load LED Lighting Applications,” IEEE Transactions on Industry Applications, Feb 2024. doi: 10.1109/TIA.2024.3363676

Practical and Social Implementation of Research

To achieve effective and efficient use of energy resources under the sustainable development goals, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have emerged as a global lighting industry solution. Over the conventional lighting sources such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, and high intensity discharge lamps, LEDs are i) more efficient, ii) eco-friendly due to absence of toxic gases, iii) have longer life span up to one lakh year, iv) high luminous intensity and v) good colour rendering index. LED’s requires low voltage direct current supply and the V-I characteristics of LEDs which is like Shockley diode represents the exponential growth of current over a small voltage variation which may damage the LED or effects the illumination. Hence, an LED driver is necessary in an LED system to supply LEDs with constant current. DC fed LED drivers are more reliable due to absence of AC-DC conversion stage and power factor correction stage which are crucial in AC fed LED drivers. Therefore, DC fed LED drivers are paid more attention in recent times in the majority of battery-powered/solar-powered applications. Given its features of high power, exceptional efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and flicker-free operation, this innovation is well-suited for streetlight/stadium lighting applications.

Collaborations

Dr. Kasi Ramakrishna Reddy, Assistant Professor
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Vasavi College of Engineering, Hyderabad

Future Research Plans

The future work is on PV/battery fed LED driver topologies suitable for streetlighting/stadium lighting applications with low component count, high efficiency, reduced device stress, and flicker free lighting system

Continue reading →

Electric Vehicles are in vogue today, thanks to the heightened environmental concerns, greater availability of models, increased cost competitiveness and improved vehicle ranges. To contribute to the growing field of electric vehicle technology, Assistant Professors, Dr Tarkeshwar Mahto, Dr Somesh Vinayak Tewari and Dr Ramanjaneya Reddy from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at SRM University-AP along with the research scholar, Ms K Mounika Nagabushanam, conducted a study and published a research paper titled “Development of High-Gain Switched-Capacitor Based Bi-Directional Converter for Electric Vehicle Applications.” The team’s research focuses on creating a bi-directional DC-DC converter that enables power flow from the battery to the motor and vice versa while maintaining necessary voltage gains and ensuring improved efficiency and low cost.

Abstract

High efficiency, high voltage transfer ratio (VTR), and low input ripple current are required in any bidirectional DC-DC converter (BDC) that plays a major role in interfacing batteries in applications like DC microgrids and electric vehicles (EVs). To meet these requirements, a switched capacitor-based BDC is proposed to interface the battery with a propulsion system via a DC Link. It has a simple circuit with only a set of switching operations, High VTR, and lesser ripple current on the low voltage (LV) side, which are advantages of the proposed High Gain Switched-Capacitor Bi-directional DC-DC Converter (SC-BDC), making it appropriate for use in EVs. The steady-state analysis, design consideration of passive components, loss and efficiency analysis are presented. Finally, the proposed High Gain SC-BDC is compared with a few of the existing BDCs in the literature. The feasibility of the converter was demonstrated by simulating a 200 W converter and validating results produced in a MATLAB environment.

Practical implementation of your research or the social implications associated with it.

The developed converter can be used in Electric Vehicle for integration of battery to traction motor.

Collaborations.

1. Majed A. Alotaibi, Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, King Saud University, 11421, Saudi Arabia.

2. Hasmat Malik, Department of Electrical Power Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University Technology Malaysia (UTM), Johor Bahru 81310, Malaysia.

3. Fausto Pedro García Márquez, Ingenium Research Group, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain.

As part of their future research plans the team plans of working on noise reduction methods that are brought on by regeneration action and to incorporate various control techniques to keep the DC link voltage of the propulsion system constant.

We wish the team all success in their future endevours!

Link to the article

 

Continue reading →

In a remarkable achievement, Dr Soni Wadhwa, Assistant Professor in the Department of Literature and Languages at SRM University-AP, and Ms Jintu Alias, a PhD Scholar, have made a significant contribution to the field of postcolonial studies with their paper titled “The rise (in the fall) of Cochin: Provincializing metropolitan spatiality in Salman Rushdie’s The Moor’s Last Sigh.”

The paper, published in the highly esteemed Journal of Postcolonial Writing offering a fresh perspective on Salman Rushdie’s acclaimed novel, “The Moor’s Last Sigh.” Through their insightful analysis, Dr Wadhwa and Alias challenge the conventional notions of metropolitan spatiality and provide a nuanced understanding of the provincial city of Cochin.

Dr Soni Wadhwa and Jintu Alias, a promising PhD Scholar, have meticulously analysed Rushdie’s The Moor’s Last Sigh, shedding light on the complex dynamics of metropolitan spatiality and the rise and fall of Cochin within the narrative.

Their research explores Rushdie’s portrayal of Cochin, challenging traditional notions of metropolitan spaces and offering a fresh perspective on the provincial nation of such spatialities. This groundbreaking analysis delves deep into the layers of cultural, historical, and socio-political contexts within Rushdie’s work, showcasing the authors’ keen insights and critical thinking.

The publication of this paper highlights the invaluable contributions of our faculty and scholars in the field of literature and postcolonial studies. It is a testament to the rigorous academic environment and the commitment to excellence fostered at SRM University-AP.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Dr Soni Wadhwa and  Jintu Alias for their remarkable achievement. Their dedication to research and passion for exploring the nuances of literature continue to inspire us all.

Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms

Bombay/Mumbai is a great city widely celebrated in literature, especially for its cosmopolitanism. Salman Rushdie’s novel The Moor’s Last Sigh has been read by various critics for the richness of the portrayal of Mumbai. In their research, PhD scholar Jintu Alias and her PhD supervisor Dr Soni Wadhwa have analysed the representation of Cochin in the novel. Regarding their research they say, “For very long, Cochin’s presence has been eclipsed by that of Mumbai. But there is more to the novel than Bombay’s history. Like any art or literature, this novel is open to multiple interpretations. Our study is focused on the depiction of space in postcolonial literature with a focus on the island city Cochin in Kerala. When we immersed ourselves into the novel, we found that its charm is irresistible. Rushdie primarily opened a new city for other writers to explore. This novel was followed by several more novels that took an even closer look at the history of Cochin (now Kochi).”

Abstract

Indian fiction and critical engagements with it have a metropolitan bias. The preference for representations of big cities such as Mumbai in fiction means that non-metropolitan (“provincial”) spaces in India face neglect, literary and otherwise. This article argues for provincialising Indian fiction by exploring non-metropolitan locations as imagined in works of fiction to unpack alternative spatiality. The example offered is Salman Rushdie’s The Moor’s Last Sigh. In most readings of the novel, Bombay (along with Moorish Spain) is highlighted as a metropolitan model for India. Cochin does not figure in these readings, which are passed over as if just a random background or setting for the characters to be launched into Mumbai. This article addresses Cochin’s marginalisation by investigating how the island city offers a provincial, alternative, non-metropolitan theorisation of spatialities in Indian fiction. The larger objective is to make space for similarly marginalised non-European locales in the discourse of cosmopolitanism.

Social Implications

1. We hope that with this interpretation of the novel from the point of view of Cochin and its history and cosmopolitanism, smaller cities in India get more attention from literary critics.
2. We also hope that our research excites further studies and creative writing on other aspects of cultural traditions practised in smaller cities in India. There are many more themes and historical and geographical settings to explore in Indian literature!

Future Research

In continuation of our method of reading different Kochi texts, we will engage with more novels in the future. Our previous reading of another Kochi novel was published in Modern Jewish Studies in September 2023. We look forward to strengthening this body of work in the future.

About This Collaboration

PhD scholar Ms Jintu Alias and Assistant Professor Dr Soni Wadhwa have been working on this area of the Kochi novel since May 2021. This has been an exciting spatiality project in the context of Indian literature.

Citation

Alias, J., & Wadhwa, S. (2024). The rise (in the fall) of Cochin: Provincializing metropolitan spatiality in Salman Rushdie’s The Moor’s Last Sigh. Journal of Postcolonial Writing, 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1080/17449855.2024.2307408

Continue reading →

The advent of scientific research and technologies in the domain of medicine has recently taken limelight due to its immense benefit on humankind and the medical community. The expert faculty and scholars have recently published a patent, “A System and a Method for Early and Accurate Diagnosis of Cataracts” with Application no.: 202341072058 has put forth an engaging invention on utilising technology for early cataract recognition. Hearty congratulations to Prof. Siva Sankar Yellampalli, Professor, Dr Ramesh Vaddi, Associate Professor, and their Ph.D. Scholars Ms P L Lahari, Mr P Rahul Gowtham, and Mr A Vinod Kumar from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering for this groundbreaking achievement!

Abstract

Cataracts are a common eye condition in which the lens of the eye gets clouded, impairing vision. Early cataract detection is crucial for prompt treatment and vision preservation. We have classification and prediction algorithms like VGG, ResNet, DenseNet, Xception, Inception, and other object detection techniques like Yolo, Fast R-CNN, and SSD. Various pre-trained models are employed for cataract categorisation and prediction. Several attempts to detect cataracts have been made, but none have proven effective. A clinical examination by eye specialists is used to diagnose cataracts. An edge board can be used instead of a clinical examination to diagnose cataracts.

We created a method for real-time cataract recognition using the present pre-trained weights of the object detection model YoLoV5. We employ pre-trained YoLo V5 weights for model training, testing, and validation. Connect the Jetson Nano board and Lenovo HD USB camera to the CPU, which serves as the CPU. The monitor is used for programming, and the output is presented on the monitor owing to the board communicating with the camera. The result shows the image with an eye labelling box that tells if the eye is normal or cataract.

Continue reading →

In a thought-provoking paper titled “Justice A Distant Dream for Acid Attack Survivors,” published in 360 Info, Dr Sebanti Chatterjee, Assistant Professor in the Department of Liberal Arts, delves deep into the persistent challenges faced by acid attack survivors.

Despite the existence of legal provisions aimed at addressing gender-based violence, the harrowing reality is that acid attacks continue to be a stark and under-addressed form of violence. Dr Chatterjee’s paper sheds light on this critical issue, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, support, and legal reform to provide justice and support for survivors.

Through her research, she underscores the importance of recognising and prioritising the plight of acid attack survivors, urging for collective action to create meaningful change. As advocates for social justice, it is imperative that we amplify their voices and work towards a future where justice is not a distant dream but a tangible reality for all survivors.

Abstract

Acid attacks can occur in private or public. These attacks are often rooted in ‘jilted lover’ syndrome or as a manifestation of continued domestic violence. Few cases offer a different narrative: one woman was attacked to teach her father a lesson about property disputes. Ultimately, the acid attack is yet another demonstration of patriarchy’s brutishness.
My (unpublished) research in 2021 with acid attack survivors (including Rima), lawyers, police and other stakeholders in West Bengal — as part of a collaboration between National Human Rights Commission and National Law School of India University, Bangalore — found that despite these various legal advances, acid attack as a form of violence is not prioritised as an issue needing immediate attention, unlike rape and child trafficking.

DOI: 10.54377/e719-077c

Link

Future Research Plan

To explore how a state cultural heritage status makes us explore the social life of an instrument- it’s secular and sacred manifestations, questions of labour, gender and the sustainability model pertinent to its musical and material interpretations.

Topic of research

Soulful beats: Ecology, Labour and Aesthetics of Ghumott

Continue reading →

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is thrilled to announce a significant breakthrough in materials science has been achieved through the diligent research efforts of Prof. G S Vinod Kumar, Professor and Head of the Department and his Ph.D. scholar, Mr Dipak Bhosale in their latest paper, “Production, stability and properties of ultrafine MgAl2O4 (Spinel) particles stabilized Mg-3Ca alloy foams”. The study focuses on the development and detailed analysis of Mg–3Ca alloy foams, uniquely enhanced by ultrafine MgAl2O4 (spinel) particles. This innovative research outlines a novel methodology for improving the mechanical properties of magnesium foams, providing unparalleled advantages for a multitude of industrial applications.

Abstract

The present work reports the synthesis and mechanical behaviour studies of Mg–3Ca alloy foams stabilized by ultrafine MgAl 2 O 4 (spinel) particles. The MgAl 2 O 4 particles were created in-situ in the Mg–3Ca alloy melt through the reaction of Mg, Al and O. Foaming was done by adding dolomite (CaMg(CO 3 ) 2 ) as a blowing agent in the melt. The foaming behaviour was studied for different MgAl 2 O 4 content in Mg–3Ca and holding times (10 and 15 min). The study reveals that the presence of MgAl 2 O 4 significantly influences the foaming behaviour of Mg–3Ca alloy resulting in equiaxed cell structure, uniform cell size distribution, and higher expansion in comparison to the Mg–3Ca alloy foam, which contains only MgO and CaO. An in-depth phase and microstructural analysis were performed to investigate the particles present in the gas-solid interface of the foam that contribute to foam stabilization. The quasi-static compression studies of foams exhibited better compressive strength (≈3–11 MPa) and energy absorption capacity (≈1.3–5.7 MJ/m3) in comparison to the Mg foams reported in the literature. The ductility of the Mg foams was also measured and compared with that of existing aluminium foams.

Research Highlights:-

• Innovative Synthesis: The MgAl2O4 particles are synthesized in situ within the Mg–3Ca alloy melt via a controlled reaction involving Mg, Al, and O. This process ensures the uniform dispersion of spinel particles, which is critical for the foam’s structural integrity and performance.
• Foaming Process: By employing dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) as a blowing agent, the research team meticulously explored the foaming behaviour under various MgAl2O4 contents and holding times (10 and 15 min). The findings highlight a marked improvement in foam expansion and stability.
• Structural and Mechanical Analysis: Through comprehensive phase and microstructural analyses, the pivotal role of MgAl2O4 particles at the gas-solid interface in stabilizing the foam structure was uncovered. Quasi-static compression tests revealed outstanding compressive strength (≈3–11 MPa) and energy absorption capacity (≈1.3–5.7 MJ/m3), surpassing existing benchmarks for magnesium foams.

Key Properties and Applications:-

• Low Density & High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: The Mg–3Ca alloy foams showcase an optimal balance of low density and high mechanical strength, rendering them ideal for lightweight structural applications.
• Enhanced Energy Absorption: Their unique cellular structure provides superior energy absorption capabilities, suitable for impact and crash-resistant applications.
• Biocompatibility: Owing to magnesium’s biocompatibility, these foams are highly promising for biomedical applications, including bone implants and scaffolds for tissue engineering.
• Thermal Conductivity & Corrosion Resistance: Additionally, these foams exhibit advantageous thermal and corrosion-resistant properties, broadening their applicability across various environmental conditions.

Transformative Impact Across Industries:-

• Aerospace and Automotive: The significant weight reduction capabilities, coupled with uncompromised strength, position the Mg–3Ca alloy foams as revolutionary materials for component design in the aerospace and automotive sectors.
• Biomedical: Their biocompatible nature and structural characteristics make these foams an excellent option for medical implants and scaffolds, poised to improve patient outcomes in orthopaedics and tissue engineering significantly.
• Energy and Beyond: From thermal management solutions in renewable energy systems to applications in sports equipment, the potential uses for these magnesium foams are extensive and diverse, heralding a new chapter in material science.

This groundbreaking research not only advances the field of magnesium foam technology but also paves the way for new possibilities in lightweight, high-performance materials across various industries. The team is dedicated to further exploring the capabilities of these innovative materials and eagerly anticipates partnering with industry stakeholders to transition these advancements from the laboratory to commercial applications.

Continue reading →

SRM University-AP and TITAN COMPANY LIMITED, a leading jewellery brand in India, have collaborated to engineer novel jewellery products using advanced materials and technologies. The joint research project, led by HOD Prof. G S Vinod Kumar and Ph.D. Scholar Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale, Department of Mechanical Engineering, has resulted in a new method of manufacturing foamed gold alloy that is lighter, stronger, and more durable than conventional gold jewellery.

A joint patent between SRM University-AP and TITAN COMPANY LIMITED has been filed for this innovative method of manufacturing foamed gold alloys. The jewellery products made from this material are currently available in TITAN showrooms under the brand name TANISHQ. The customers can enjoy the benefits of wearing lightweight and high-strength jewellery, which also has a high aesthetic appeal and value.

The collaboration between SRM University-AP and TITAN COMPANY LIMITED exemplifies how academia and industry can work together to create novel and useful products for society. The joint research project also provides an opportunity for the students and faculty of SRM University-AP to gain exposure and experience in the field of jewellery engineering and design and to contribute to advancing science and technology.

Abstract

The current innovation introduces a method for producing foamed gold alloy utilising a liquid metallurgical approach. Gas-releasing agents such as hydrides and carbonates are employed in the manufacturing process. Both 18K and 22K alloys are subjected to foaming in this invention. The resulting foams are stabilised by oxides generated in-situ as well as oxides added externally. These foamed gold alloys exhibit ultra-lower density. The foaming process is successfully executed using both interrupted and uninterrupted methods. These foamed gold alloys find applications in various fields including Jewellery and medical implants.

The title of patent in the citation format

“G. S. Vinod Kumar, Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale. A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A FOAMED GOLD ALLOY. Indian Patent application number 202341059195 filed Sep 04, 2023”

Patent Application number

202341059195

Inventors

1. G. S. Vinod Kumar 2. Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale

Continue reading →