Recent News

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