debajyoti-research

Dr Debajyoti Kundu, Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, has published a research paper titled “Synthesis, delineation and technological advancements of algae biochar for sustainable remediation of the emerging pollutants from wastewater – A Review” in the esteemed Q1 journal “Environmental Research”, which has an impact factor of 8.3.

Dr Debajyoti’s research focuses on using algae biochar, which is particularly effective at cleaning polluted water. The study reviews how this biochar is made and improved and how it can effectively remove harmful substances from wastewater. This process is sustainable and environmentally friendly, offering a promising solution to water pollution.

Abstract

The study examines the synthesis, technological advancements, and applications of algae biochar for the sustainable remediation of emerging pollutants from wastewater. It highlights the unique properties of algae biochar, including its high surface area, pore volume, and adsorption capacity, which make it an effective medium for removing inorganic and organic contaminants from wastewater. The paper discusses various methods for producing algae biochar, such as pyrolysis, gasification, and torrefaction, and explores chemical and structural modifications to enhance its pollutant removal efficiency.

Practical Implementation /Social Implications of the Research

The practical implementation of this research involves using algae-derived biochar in wastewater treatment plants to remove harmful pollutants. This can lead to cleaner water, reduced environmental pollution, and improved public health. The process is also sustainable and cost-effective, contributing to environmental conservation and resource efficiency.

Collaborations

This research is a collaborative effort among various experts from institutions such as the University of Calcutta, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Graphic Era Deemed to be University, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Ranchi University, King Abdulaziz University, Incheon National University, Korea Aerospace University, and B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology.

Future Research Plans

Dr Debajyoti’s future research projects include exploring advanced modification techniques for algae biochar to further enhance its pollutant removal capabilities, investigating its application in different types of wastewater, and developing large-scale production methods. Additionally, there is an interest in studying the long-term environmental impacts and economic viability of using algae biochar in wastewater treatment.

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rbi-internship

The Department of Economics proudly announces that Mr Nilesh A, a third-year B.Sc. Economics (Hons.) student, has secured a highly coveted one-month research-based internship at the Reserve Bank of India, Mumbai. This internship is under the Department of Economic and Policy Research (DEPR).

“I am thrilled to share my experience of securing an internship at the Reserve Bank of India, a journey that was significantly supported by the resources and guidance provided by my university. I am grateful to all my professors at Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM University-AP for their unwavering support and encouragement. This internship is a pivotal step in my career, and I am excited about the future and eager to continue building on this incredible foundation,” stated Nilesh while expressing his gratitude for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Internships are remarkable opportunities to gain experience and exposure, build a strong network, and hone the skills you already possess. The Easwari School of Liberal Arts of SRM University-AP provides academic and research internships prioritising experiential and industry-based learning to help students cultivate a refined practical skillset.

anirban-patent

The Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering is delighted to announce that Assistant Professor Dr Anirban Ghosh, PhD scholars Mr Naga Srinivasarao and Ms Manasa Santhi, and BTech student Mr Sk Abdul Hakeem have filed and published their patent, “A System and a Method for Low Transmission Delay and Energy Efficiency,” with Application No: 202441045389. The research cohort has demonstrated groundbreaking research on integrating Small-World Characteristics (SWC) into Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWANs) through Reinforcement Learning.

Abstract

To support the rapid growth of Internet of Things (IoT) applications, networking technologies like Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWANs) are evolving to provide extended network lifespan and broader coverage for Internet of Things Devices (IoDs). These technologies are highly effective when devices remain stationary under static conditions. However, practical IoT applications, ranging from smart cities to mobile health monitoring systems, involve heterogeneous IoDs that move dynamically, leading to changing network topologies. Typically, dynamic networks use multi-hop data transmission schemes for communication, but this method presents challenges such as increased data latency and energy imbalances. To address these issues, this patent introduces a novel approach that integrates recent advancements in social networks, specifically Small-World Characteristics (SWC), into LPWANs using Reinforcement Learning. Specifically, the SWCs are embedded into heterogeneous LPWANs through the Q-learning technique. The performance of the developed heterogeneous Small-World LPWANs is then evaluated in terms of energy efficiency (including the number of alive and dead IoDs, as well as network residual energy) and data transmission delay within the network.

Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms

The existing or the present technology moves around the applications that are either static or dynamic in nature, but the current invention considers a realistic IoT application that contains both static and dynamic nodes in the network. However, maintaining low data transmission delay and high network longevity over such a heterogeneous network is a challenge. By integrating SWCs over the developed heterogeneous networks using Q-learning technique helps in minimizing the data transmission delay and improves the network lifetime (energy efficient data transmission).

Practical Implementation of the Research

Applications that contain both static and dynamic nodes, such as smart health care systems, smart environmental monitoring systems, real-time traffic monitoring systems, and smart cities and homes, require less data transmission delay and high network longevity.

Collaborations

  1. Dr Om Jee Pandey – Assistant Professor, Department of Electronics Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi
  2. Dr Satish Kumar Tiwari – Assistant Professor, IIITDM Jabalpur, India

In the next phase of research, the reserach team will work towards investigating how the energy efficiency and other quality of service of smart devices in an IoT setting can be improved if they are completely mobile.

rajapandiyan-patent

The Department of Chemistry is glad to announce that Dr Rajapandiyan Panneerselvam, Associate Professor, Ms Jayasree K, Research Scholar, and Ms Mounika Renduchintala, BSc student, have had their breakthrough research published as a patent titled “A Method for Detecting Microplastics from Contaminated Products” with Application Number: 202441045388. Various research has been undertaken by scientists in developing improved methods for sample preparation and data analysis, aiming to reliably detect pollutants like microplastics in complex samples such as sea salt, soil, and water. In line with these efforts, this patent introduces a rapid and easy method to detect microplastics in contaminated products and water bodies using a filter paper-based substrate.

Abstract

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has emerged as one of the most promising analytical tools in recent years due to its advantageous features, such as high sensitivity, specificity, ease of operation, and rapid analysis. These attributes make SERS particularly well-suited for environmental and food analysis. However, detecting target analytes in real samples using SERS faces several challenges, including matrix interference, low analyte concentrations, sample preparation complexity, and reproducibility issues. Additionally, the chemical complexity of pollutants and environmental factors can impact SERS measurements. Overcoming these hurdles demands optimized experimental conditions, refined sample preparation methods, and advanced data analysis techniques, often necessitating interdisciplinary collaborations for effective analysis. Therefore, our focus lies in the development of various methods for fabricating SERS substrates, pretreating analytes, and devising sample preparation strategies. These efforts aim to enable the detection of analytes like microplastics within complex real samples, including sea salts, soil samples, lake water, and various food products.

Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research

SERS Community: Introducing a facile fabrication method for developing filter paper-based substrates, utilizing evaporation-induced self-assembly methods with the aid of 96-well plates. These substrates boast exceptional sensitivity and uniformity, exhibiting a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 8.2%. They offer easy fabrication and serve as effective SERS substrates for various applications.

Industry and Government Bodies: This invention plays a pivotal role in assessing contamination in food and water bodies, serving as a crucial tool in monitoring environmental contamination through on-site analysis with portable instruments. It ensures adherence to regulatory standards and safeguards public health.

Research: Beyond its practical applications, the invention supports scientific research endeavors focused on identifying microplastic contaminants in real-world samples using portable Raman spectrometers. This not only aids ongoing research but also paves the way for future studies in this critical field.

Collaborations

  • Dr Hemanth Noothalapati – Raman Project Center for Medical and Biological Applications, Shimane University, Japan
  • Dr Murali Krishna C – Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
  • Dr Soma Venugopal – University of Hyderabad, India

The research team hopes to develop a novel SERS substrate for the detection of environmental pollutants in real-world samples.

rajapandiyan-patent

Dr Rajapandiyan P, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, and his PhD scholar, Ms Arunima Jinachandran, recently filed and published a patent, “A Substrate for Contaminant Detection and a Process for its Synthesis,” with Application Number: 202441043642 in the Patent Office Journal. The research duo has developed a novel SERS (Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy) substrate by synthesising silver nanopopcorn and depositing it on a polycarbonate membrane.

This novel substrate demonstrates excellent uniformity, reproducibility, and mechanical stability. It is used for the sensitive detection of toxic antibiotic nitrofurazone on fish surfaces and in honey. This breakthrough could significantly enhance food safety monitoring by providing a reliable and efficient method for detecting harmful substances.

Abstract

Detecting nitrofurazone (NFZ) in aquaculture and livestock is crucial due to its carcinogenic properties. This study presents a flexible polycarbonate membrane (PCM) with three-dimensional silver nanopopcorns (Ag NPCs) for NFZ detection on fish surfaces using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The Ag-NPCs/PCM substrate demonstrates a significant Raman signal enhancement (EF = 2.36 × 106) due to hotspots from nanoscale protrusions and crevices. It achieves a low limit of detection (LOD) of 3.7 × 10−9 M, with uniform and reproducible signals (RSD < 8.34%) and retains 70% efficacy after 10 days. The practical detection LODs for NFZ in tap water, honey water, and on fish surfaces are 1.35 × 10−8 M, 5.76 × 10−7 M, and 3.61 × 10−8 M, respectively, demonstrating its effectiveness for various samples. This Ag-NPCs/PCM substrate offers a promising approach for sensitive SERS detection of toxic substances in real-world applications.

Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research

The practical applicability of the proposed Ag-NPCs/PCM SERS substrate is validated by successfully detecting NFZ in various actual samples, such as tap water, honey water, and irregular fish surfaces.

Collaborations – Prof. Tzyy-Jiann Wang – National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan

Dr Rajapandiyan and Ms Arunima will continue to work towards the development of novel flexible SERS substrates for detecting toxic pollutants in food.

leadership-meet-with-cm

Founder Chancellor of SRM Group and former Member of Parliament Dr T R Paarivendhar and Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan met the Chief Minister of the state, Shri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, at the Office of the Secretariat. This is the second visit of the university leadership to the Chief Minister’s Office, as the former had first approached the CM to extend their congratulations on his fourth tenure as the head of the state government.

Dr Paarivendhar briefed Chief Minister Shri Naidu about the development and planned expansion projects of SRM University-AP in Amaravati. “As a premier institute disseminating tertiary education to the ground roots of the country, we politely urge the government under the lead of Shri Chandrababu Naidu to cordially aid SRM University-AP’s subsequent projects to provide world-class education and empower our country’s youth”, said Dr Paarivendhar.

Emphasising the importance of educating the youth in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence, enhancing 21st-century skills and the significance of an industry-led academic curriculum to the Chief Minister, Dr Sathyanarayanan stated that “The support from the state government is pivotal for the SRM University-AP to undertake new projects. The development of the institute will summate to the progression of the state by enhancing literacy and human capital.” He suggested that an additional 100 acres could be allotted to the university as per the agreement made during the establishment of the university.

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu responded positively and concurred with the proposal proffered by the university leadership. Shri Naidu promised to provide all required resources and support towards the university’s growth and expansion.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora, Executive Director (SRM Group) Prof. D Narayana Rao, and Registrar Dr Premkumar, were also part of the leadership cohort that met the Honourable CM.

abhilasha-gusain

Graphic novels, a subgenre of comics, have witnessed stellar growth in popularity, encouraging readers to decipher meaning from the text and the images. The combination of visual and textual storytelling aids readers in decoding complex narratives. Dr Abhilasha Gusain, Assistant Professor from the Department of Literature and Languages, has published a paper titled “From Ideas to Ink: The Craft of Graphic Novel Creation with Sean Michael Wilson” in the Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics.

The current research advances the field of comics studies, highlighting aspects related to the industry like readership, publication, and distribution of graphic narratives across the globe. It emphasises the process of creation of a graphic novel, with reference to author Sean Michael Wilson’s works.

Abstract

In this interview, Sean Michael Wilson delves into his multifaceted career as a graphic novel writer, revealing the intricacies of his creative process, the challenges of adapting complex subjects into visual narratives, and the evolving role of graphic novels in cultural discourse. With over 40 projects under his belt, Wilson shares his approach to beginning new works, whether they stem from original ideas or/are adaptations of historical events and existing literature. He discusses the balance between authenticity and readability, the importance of research, and the collaborative dynamic between writer and artist in bringing graphic novels to life. Wilson also touches on the broader implications of graphic novels in education and social commentary, the economic realities of the industry, and the impact of digital platforms on publishing. His experiences across different cultures, particularly between the West and Japan, provide insight into the global reception of his work. Throughout the interview, Wilson emphasises the power of graphic novels as a medium for storytelling, education, and political engagement.

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Creating a roadmap for learning and constantly upskilling oneself is essential to achieving career growth and stability. The interactive session conducted on July 06, 2024, by the Directorate of Alumni Relations and the Directorate of CR & CS emphasised this very requirement. The alumni of the institute, Mr Rajesh Yemineni, B.Tech. CSE Class of 2024, currently working as a Program Associate at Wells Fargo, and Ms Uppuluri Vaishnavi, B.Tech. CSE Class of 2024, Associate Software Engineer at Service Now, delivered a wonderful session with participants leaving with pro tips to crack interviews and designing their own roadmap to success by choosing their specialisations and courses.

The talk helped students create a comprehensive roadmap to ensure a structured approach to learning. Prioritisation of topics with a focus on DSA, DBMS, OS, and CN was discussed to build a strong foundation in core CSE subjects. The alumni also encouraged students to practice coding problems and projects, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios to gain practical experience and build a portfolio.

The alumni also shared tips and tricks for overcoming interviews and flying with passing colours. From breaking down complex problems to practising coding problems and projects, these insightful tips ensured that our students would be ready to take on their desired career paths. Staying updated with industry trends and advancements to remain competitive in the job market was also prioritised.

The session concluded with the alumni encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones and challenge themselves, pushing beyond current limits to achieve growth and success and developing a growth mindset.

eee-skill-enhancement-programme

The Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering hosted a highly successful five-day Skill Enhancement Programme on “Renewable Energy and Smart Transportation” from July 22 to July 26, 2024, signalling a major leap forward in addressing the vital sectors of electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. The programme conducted in a hybrid mode, featured live lectures, hands-on training, and interactive sessions, drawing a total of 50 participants. Chief Guest Dr K Sivakumar, HOD-EEE, IIT Hyderabad, highlighted the pressing need for such skill development initiatives and stressed the importance of keeping abreast of advancements in renewable energy and smart transportation.

Expert sessions on the emerging domains of Renewable Energy, including Advanced Power Conversion and Efficient Drives, Design and Simulation Tools, Battery Management and Charging Infrastructure, and Sustainability and Renewable Integration, fostered an in-depth understanding and application of the latest technologies in these fields.

Dr K Sivakumar started off the programme with an engaging session on advanced power conversion techniques and control strategies for electric vehicles. His insights into modern electric vehicle design set a strong foundation for the week. Participants gained a deep understanding and a solid theoretical base on the latest advancements in power converters and control techniques, which are crucial for the design and development of efficient electric vehicles.

eee-skill-enhancement-programme1

Subsequent technical sessions were led by esteemed experts from academia and industry, such as Dr Narasimharaju B L from NIT Warangal, Mr Suraj from Decibels Pvt. Ltd., Dr G Naga Yatendra Babu from Solidpro Engineering Support Pvt. Ltd., Mr Sai Teja Cherla from OPAL-RT, and Dr Kiran Kumar N, Dr Pratikanta Mishra from and Dr V Naresh Kumar from SRM University-AP.

Overall, the Skill Enhancement Programme provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy and smart transportation, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills and fostering discussions on current challenges and future opportunities in these fields.

jyothika-sri-dandi-paris-olympics

Ms Jyothika Sri Dandi, our first-year B.A. student at the Easwari School of Liberal Arts, has qualified for the Indian Women’s 4x400m Relay Team for the world’s foremost sports competition, the Paris Olympics 2024. Dr Dhiraj Parasher, Director–Sports, congratulated Ms Jyothika on this phenomenal achievement. He remarked, “To become an Olympian is a monumental mark in the career of an athlete. We are swelled with pride and offer unwavering support as we soundly believe that Jyothika will create history and return as an Olympic champion.”

Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora also expressed his pride and zeal by stating, “Ms Jyothika is a national treasure that instils a belief and ambition in every young girl who dreams of being an Olympian. We, at SRM University-AP, wish her success and victory as she crafts her name in the tapestry of champions.”

Hailing from Tanuku town in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, the two-time national champion has paved her way to the elite sports championship through hard work, determination, and resilience.

Ms Jyothika had her breakthrough in 2021 when she secured Gold in the 400-metre race at the Indian U23 Championships. Her winning streak continued as she forged ahead to make her mark in 2023 by winning the Indian National Open Championships for 400 metres race in Thiruvananthapuram and winning bronze in the women’s 4 x 400 metres relay at the 2023 Asian Athletics Championships in Bangkok. Her blistering pace and performance at the 2024 World Relays Championships in Nassau, Bahamas, secured the Indian women’s relay team’s ticket to the Paris Olympics.

As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfolds, it is a moment of pride and anticipation for SRM University-AP as the institute extends its heartfelt wishes to Ms Jyothika and the Indian contingent representing our nation on this monumental platform.