Dr Chinmoy Das, Assistant Professor from the Department of Chemistry, and scholars Mr Sushant Wakekar and Mr Sasikumar K have published their invention titled “Li-based solid-state electrolyte and a method for its preparation” in the Indian Patent Office (Patent application No. 202441083351). The invention illustrates how to synthesise inexpensive Li(I) ion-based solid-state electrolytes that are feasible for fabricating flexible electronic devices. The team worked on inexpensive and readily available starting materials that provide self-supported and flexible solid-state electrolytes to advance LIB applications.

Abstract

In our invention, we described a rapid and robust synthetic methodology to prepare novel flexible solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) suitable for the fabrication of eco-friendly lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The mechanically flexible film has been synthesized upon in situ incorporation of Li(I) ion into two inexpensive biocompatible polysaccharide matrices through mixing. We achieved Li(I) ion-based superionic conductivity at room temperature which is feasible for the fabrication of flexible electronics in modern age society.

Practical Implementation/Social Implications of the Research

This invention can be implemented in various industries, such as electric vehicles (EVs), wearable and flexible electronics, and aerospace and aviation.

The team is extending their research towards the fabrication of cheaper sodium (Na+), potassium (K+)-ion based solid-state electrolytes with superionic conductivity and implementing them in designing the biodegradable sodium-ion / potassium ion batteries (NIBs / KIBs).

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Jaidev Kaushik researchDr Jaidev Kaushik, Assistant Professor from the Department of Chemistry, has introduced an innovative method for converting CO₂ emissions into valuable products like acetic acid, offering a sustainable solution to combat climate change. His groundbreaking research has been published in the Chemical Engineering Journal under the title, Hydrogen Peroxide Mediated Thermo-Catalytic Conversion of Carbon Dioxide to C1-C2 Products over Cu(0).

A Brief Abstract:

The global challenge concerning CO2 conversion to valuable products is anticipated to play a critical role towards net zero carbon emissions. Thermal CO2 reduction is advantageous in terms of higher conversion rates, selectivity, and already-established industrial thermal instruments for scalability. However, the method is energy-intensive, a hindrance to sustainably practical adoption. Herein, we present a comprehensive study of H2O2-mediated thermal CO2 conversion in the presence of dendritic zerovalent copper (d-ZCu) in a batch-type reactor, yielding C1 and C2 carbon products, with acetic acid (AcOH) as the major product (achieving an optimized yield of approximately 0.98 M and a selectivity of around 97% at near-ambient conditions of 25-150°C and 1-15 bar), along with trace amounts of methanol and ethanol, and carbon monoxide (CO) as a gaseous product. The reaction parameters, including temperature, time, pressure, and concentrations, were optimized to gain better insight into the reaction. To further explore the feasibility of the process, experiments were conducted in a continuous flow-packed bed reactor using similar parameters as those in the batch reactor, where CO was identified as the primary product of CO2 reduction. For advanced real-life applicability, the as-emitted exhaust gases from diesel and petrol engines, as sources of anthropogenic CO2, were utilized to establish the practical applicability of the proposed method.

Explanation in Layperson’s Terms:

In our work, we found a way to convert CO2, a gas that contributes to climate change, into useful products. We used hydrogen peroxide and a special type of copper catalyst (zerovalent and dendritic shaped) to change CO2 into things like acetic acid (used in vinegar), methanol, ethanol, and carbon monoxide. The main product we made was acetic acid, and the process worked well at lower temperatures and pressures, which means it used less energy. To see if this could be useful in real life, we tested it with CO2 coming from car exhaust, including diesel and petrol engines, and found that it could help reduce pollution. This shows that our method could be a practical way to reduce CO2 emissions from everyday sources.

Practical Implementation and Social Implications:

The practical implementation of our research offers a promising solution for reducing CO2 emissions by converting this harmful gas into valuable products like acetic acid, methanol, ethanol, and carbon monoxide. We used hydrogen peroxide and a dendritic zerovalent copper to operate our method at lower temperatures and pressures, making it more energy-efficient than traditional CO₂ reduction techniques. The implementation of this approach may not only help industries reduce their carbon footprint but also provide economic value by synthesizing widely used products. A key social benefit is its potential to capture and convert CO2 emissions from everyday sources, such as car exhaust, demonstrating how this method can help reduce pollution in urban environments. Overall, this technology supports the global effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, offering a practical and scalable solution for industries and everyday applications alike.

Collaborations:

Dr Sumit Kumar Sonkar (MNIT Jaipur, India)

Future Research Plans:

  • 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 functionalized versions.
  • Utilizing waste derived heterogeneous catalysts in organic transformation reactions.
  • Selective sensing of toxic metal ions/biomarkers/biomolecules using fluorescent nanomaterials.
  • Upcycling of carbonates/CO2 via photo/thermal assisted reactions to get C1 and C2 hydrocarbons (green fuel).

The link to the article

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1385894724082779

On November 30, 2024, the Department of Chemistry, in collaboration with the Directorate of Admissions, hosted ChemZeal 3, a flagship event that showcased the ever-expanding scope of chemistry in today’s world. The event was graced by prominent personalities, including the Chief Guest, Prof. Vijayamohanan Pillai, Dean of Research & Development at IISER Tirupati, and Dr Veerababu, Director of Cathode, GODI India Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad, who served as the resource person.

The event began with a welcome address by the convener, Dr Satheesh Ellipilli, who provided an insightful overview of the programme and reflected on the immense success of the previous editions, ChemZeal 1 and 2. He expressed excitement about the growth of the event and its contribution to advancing the knowledge and application of chemistry in various fields.

Following the welcome, the Head of the Department of Chemistry delivered an inspiring speech, offering a comprehensive overview of the department. Dr Pardha Saradhi Maram, Associate Professor and Head highlighted the department’s commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and fostering an environment where students can explore the transformative power of chemistry.

One of the major highlights of the event was the launch of the “Post a Q” portal by Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora. The portal aims to provide a platform for students and researchers to ask questions and seek solutions in the realm of chemistry. During the launch, Prof. Arora remarked, “Chemistry is such a wonderful science that, no matter what you think of, you will find chemistry in it.” This statement underscored the far-reaching impact of chemistry on everyday life and innovation.

The keynote address by the Chief Guest, Prof. Vijayamohanan Pillai, focused on generating and storing clean energy. He discussed the pivotal role that chemistry plays in developing sustainable solutions for energy storage and generation, from battery technologies to renewable energy sources. Prof. Pillai’s talk resonated with the audience, particularly in the context of the growing need for clean energy in the face of global environmental challenges.

The resource person, Dr Veerababu, shared valuable insights into cathode materials and their applications in the energy sector. His expertise in battery technology and his role at GODI India added depth to the discussions, providing students and faculty with a practical perspective on the industry’s current advancements.

ChemZeal 3 successfully fostered a spirit of collaboration and intellectual curiosity, highlighting the dynamic nature of chemistry and its potential to address some of the world’s most pressing issues. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all the speakers, participants, and organisers who made the day a resounding success.

In an inspiring collaboration, Prof. G S Vinod Kumar and Prof. Sheela Singh from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Ranjit Thapa from the Department of Physics, and Dr Rajapandiyan Panneerselvam from the Department of Chemistry at SRM University – AP, along with PhD scholars Ms Harsha K and Ms Arunima J, have co-authored a compelling paper titled “Innovative Approaches to Enhancing the Tarnish Resistance of Silver Alloys.” This groundbreaking research focuses on developing new silver alloys that resist tarnishing, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal for applications in the jewellery industry. Together, they are paving the way for innovative solutions that blend science with artistry.

Abstract

Silver and its alloys undergo tarnishing with time, which is a black stain on the surface due to the formation of Ag2S. Developing a tarnish resistant Ag alloy was attempted by alloying Ag with elements that form a passive oxide layer on the surface. Germanium is proven to provide better tarnish resistance to sterling silver alloy (92.5wt.% pure) which is available under the trade name of Argentium©. The present work investigates the tarnish resistance behaviour of sterling silver alloy (92.5wt.% pure) containing various additions of Copper, Zinc, Germanium, Aluminium, Beryllium, Titanium, Zirconium, and Magnesium. The alloys were prepared by melting and casting route, followed by Passivation Heat Treatment (PHT) to create a stable and continuous oxide layer. The temperature for PHT was optimized using thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) of the alloys prepared. An accelerated tarnish test was carried out to investigate the tarnishing behaviour of alloy samples obtained before and after PHT. The samples were characterized using XRD, SEM-EDX, TG-DSC, micro-Raman Spectroscopy, and XPS. The change in reflectance of the samples after the tarnish test is determined using UV-visible reflectance spectroscopy. The mechanism behind the tarnish resistance was derived using Density Functional Theory (DFT) by comparing sulphur (S2) and Oxygen (O2) adsorption energies (BE) of the alloying elements.

Explanation of the Research in layperson’s terms

Age-old silver pieces are found in different colours ranging from light yellow(silver Jewellery pieces after a few weeks of usage) to black(archaeological silver pieces). They look different in terms of the metallic white colour and lustrous appearance from fresh silver. This demeans silver and thus affects its market. The major cause of the staining of silver is the interaction of individual silver particles with some elements found common in the atmosphere. We work on the prevention of this staining of silver. For the study, silver is incorporated with other elements which makes silver less interacting with staining elements in the atmosphere. These additional elements create a layer over silver so that it is protected. The appropriate elements are identified by using modelling using computer software. After obtaining appropriate elements, the experimental trials are also done with the same elements until stainless silver is obtained. Then, what happens to the added elements inside silver is also studied by using modern microscopic technics.

Practical/Social Implications of the Research

The major application of the invention is in the jewellery industry. The problem of tarnishing is an age-old threat in jewellery making. The alloys we proposed could be used to make quality silver jewellery/articles that can sustain the colour and lustre for a longer period. This will stop the hesitation from jewellery designers and industries to try intricate designs in silver and find a better market for them. The alloys based on the proposed composition show good grain refinement and thus high hardness. This strengthens the soft silver and improves the range of its applications from low hardness articles to high. The alloys based on the proposed composition have high tensile strength. They deform plastically for a wide range of stress values and will not break easily.

Collaborations:

Waman Hari Pethe & Sons Jewellery

Future Research Plans:

1. Corrosion studies of silver alloys to understand the behaviour in solutions having compositions similar to that of sweat.

2. Study of mechanical properties of silver alloys to develop workable alloys of sterling silver which could be used for jewellery manufacturing

3. Identification of elements having better oxide layer formation when alloyed with silver, by using computational techniques and experimental studies of their properties.

Link to the article:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2238785424024633

As water scarcity becomes an increasingly pressing issue, innovative solutions like atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) are being explored to provide sustainable access to fresh water. Dr Chinmoy Das, Assistant Professor from the Department of Chemistry and his research scholar Mr Sushant Wakekar have in their research paper titled, “Deciphering the functions of Metal-Organic Frameworks and their derived composites towards Atmospheric Water Harvesting: A comprehensive Review” analysed the crucial role of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their composites in enhancing the efficiency of AWH systems.

Abstract

To address water scarcity globally, recently atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) has emerged as an intriguing and sustainable solution. This comprehensive review critically investigates how diversity in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their composite materials shapes the effectiveness and practicality of AWH technologies. These materials range from pristine MOFs to functionalized MOFs-based composites to attain the sophisticated hydrophilic behavior to perform as water harvesters. The multifaceted effects of MOFs and their composite materials on the kinetics of sorption and condensation, the feasibility of water uptake and release, the overall performance of the materials, the theoretical understanding of water uptake, and various instrumentation techniques have been demonstrated in this comprehensive review. It contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable water sourcing by emphasizing the pivotal role of materials diversity in shaping the future of AWH technologies.

Explanation of Research in layperson’s terms:

This review article explains how AWH technology, which captures water from the air, could provide sustainable solutions for water scarcity. We focus on advanced materials called MOFs and their ability to improve AWH efficiency. By analyzing different types of MOFs and MOF-based composites, we explore how they enhance water absorption and release, potentially making AWH more practical and effective for real-world use.

Practical/Social Implications of the Research:

This technology could have far-reaching social impacts by offering a reliable water source for communities in arid or remote areas, reducing reliance on traditional, often costly water sources, and strengthening resilience to climate change.

Future Research Plans:

To design and synthesis a material which can work with a minimum relative humidity (%RH) and design a suitable prototype for it.

Link to the Article

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214993724003002

Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), a technique that helps scientists detect tiny amounts of substances, is used for checking pollutants in our environment and the food we eat. However, using this method can be tricky because sometimes other substances can interfere. To overcome these challenges, scientists are working on better ways to prepare samples and analyse the data with a quick and easy way to find harmful pollutants called PFOSA in human urine, soil, and water using a fish scale-based substrate. This remarkable research titled, “Ag nanoparticle-embedded fish scales as SERS substrates for sensitive detection of forever chemical in real samples” by faculty members from the Department of Chemistry and Department of Biological Sciences, Dr J P Raja Pandiyan and Dr Anil K Suresh, along with their research scholars, Ms Jayasree K and Ms Arunima J, have opened up new avenues, demonstrating a significant advancement in the field of science.

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 optimised 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 Perfluorooctane sulfonamide (PFOSA) – a toxic environmental pollutant within complex real samples, including human urine, lake water, and soil samples.

Practical / Social Implications:

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 endeavours 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:

1. Dr Hemanth Noothalapati Raman Project Center for
Medical and Biological
Applications, Shimane
University, Matsue 690-8504,
Japan

2. Dr Murali Krishna C. Advanced Centre for
Treatment, Research and
Education in Cancer, Tata
Memorial Centre, Navi
Mumbai 410210, India

3. Dr Soma Venugopal University of Hyderabad, India

Future Research Plans:

Harnessing SERS for the Detection of Emerging Contaminants in Environmental and Food Matrices

 

 

In a remarkable contribution to the field of green chemistry, Dr Jaidev Kaushik, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, has published a significant research paper titled “Green Light Promoted Photoreduction of Carbonate to Acetic Acid by Zinc Ash-Derived ZCu@ZnO” in the prestigious Q1 journal, ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, with an impressive impact factor of 7.1.

Dr Kaushik’s research addresses the pressing need for sustainable methods of producing acetic acid, a widely used chemical in various industrial applications. The study explores an innovative photoreduction process that utilises green light to convert carbonate compounds into acetic acid using a novel catalyst derived from zinc ash. This approach not only showcases the potential for an eco-friendly production method but also emphasises the recycling of zinc waste, turning a byproduct into a valuable resource.

The paper highlights the efficiency of Zinc Ash-Derived ZCu@ZnO as a catalyst in the photoreduction process, demonstrating its effectiveness under green light conditions. The findings could pave the way for more sustainable practices in chemical manufacturing, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmentally friendly technologies.

This publication underscores the commitment of SRM University – AP to fostering innovative research that addresses contemporary environmental challenges. Dr. Kaushik’s work exemplifies the university’s focus on sustainability and its aspiration to lead in the field of scientific research.

As the demand for sustainable chemical processes grows, Dr Kaushik’s research will likely inspire further investigations and developments in green chemistry, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Abstract of the Research

Mineralized carbon (carbonate) is the readily available carbon dioxide (CO2) source in acidic aqueous conditions. The photoreduction of carbonate to value-added hydrocarbons could be a novel finding performed in the presence of monochromatic visible light and waste-derived photo-active nanomaterials. In this report, we have synthesized ZnO particles from the zinc ash generated as waste in the galvanization process in the steel industry; ZnO particles were decorated with CuO nanoparticles and then further activated by reducing them to get a heterojunction photocatalyst (ZCu@ZnO). After that, ZCu@ZnO is utilized to photoreduce carbonate to acetic acid (AcOH) in a peroxy-rich solvent as a hydrogen-rich solvent under various monochromatic light sources and sunlight. Additionally, different physical and chemical parameters, such as solvent mixture, light sources, photocatalysts, time, etc., were optimized to get the maximum yield of AcOH under monochromatic light of 525 nm wavelength (Green light).

Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms

This report is proposing the solution of two problem statements; first, utilization of zinc ash generated as a by-product after galvanization process; and second, cost-effective and energy efficient process for conversion of carbonates to value-added C2 hydrocarbon.

Practical Implementation and the Social Implications associated with the Research

The process adds value by converting low-value waste into high-value nanomaterials, potentially offering new revenue streams for recycling and waste management industries. It supports the principles of a circular carbon economy and green chemistry focusing on synthesis of hydrocarbons from carbonates.

Collaboration

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 functionalized 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 catalyzed reactions to get C1 and C2 hydrocarbons (green fuel).

Link to the Article

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

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.