Research | FNMRL

Photocatalysis: Environmental remediation and energy generation applications

Our research primarily focuses on the design and development of novel nanostructured materials to serve as efficient photocatalysts for applications in environmental remediation and energy generation.

Motivation
Addressing critical societal challenges drives our work, particularly the preservation and revival of freshwater—a vital yet scarce resource. Despite covering 71% of the Earth's surface, only 3% of water is freshwater, and a mere 1% is readily accessible for consumption. To safeguard this precious resource, our research aims to tackle issues such as the contamination of water bodies by emerging pollutants and harmful algal blooms.

Objectives
We are actively developing advanced nanostructured photocatalysts to:

Revive freshwater resources by degrading and removing emerging pollutants and controlling harmful algal blooms through photocatalytic processes.
Repurpose wastewater into energy or value-added products, leveraging photocatalytic reactions for nitrogen fixation, carbon dioxide reduction, and hydrogen generation.

Through these innovative approaches, we aim to contribute to sustainable solutions that address both environmental challenges and the growing demand for renewable energy.

Nonlinear optical properties of nanostructured materials

We also work on exploring the fascinating nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of nanostructured materials, with a focus on their potential for advancing photonics, optoelectronics, and energy applications.

Motivation
Nonlinear optical materials play a crucial role in modern science and technology, enabling innovations in areas such as high-speed optical communication, laser technology, and advanced imaging systems. By investigating the nonlinear optical behavior of nanostructured materials, we aim to contribute to the development of next-generation devices with enhanced performance and functionality.

Objectives
Our work focuses on:

Understanding nonlinear phenomena such as two-photon absorption, third-harmonic generation, and optical limiting in nanostructured systems.
Designing and synthesizing novel nanostructures to enhance nonlinear optical responses through tailored morphologies, compositions, and interfaces.
Exploring multifunctional materials that integrate nonlinear optical properties with other capabilities, such as photocatalysis and energy storage, for synergistic applications.

This work is carried out by collaborating with Prof. Reji Philip, Raman Research Institute, Bangalore.

Design and development of Metacomposites

We also work on the design and development of metacomposites—advanced engineered materials that exhibit exceptional electromagnetic properties not typically found in natural materials. These innovations hold significant promise for applications in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, negative permittivity, and beyond.

Motivation
With the rapid advancement of modern electronics, the demand for effective EMI shielding and novel electromagnetic functionalities has become critical. Traditional materials often fall short in meeting the performance and adaptability required for cutting-edge applications. Metacomposites, with their tunable electromagnetic properties, provide a transformative approach to overcoming these challenges.

This work is carried out in collaboration with Prof. Sindhu Swaminathan, University of Calicut.

Nanomaterials for Seed-Priming Applications

We also work on exploring the potential of nanomaterials to revolutionize seed-priming techniques, enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting sustainable farming practices. By integrating nanotechnology with seed treatment strategies, we aim to address challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

Motivation
Agriculture faces increasing pressures from population growth, climate change, and limited arable land. Traditional seed priming methods, while effective, often have limitations in delivering precise and sustained benefits to crops. Nanomaterials, with their unique physicochemical properties, offer a groundbreaking approach to improving seed germination, growth, and stress tolerance.

Objectives
Our research is focused on:

Developing nanomaterial-based priming agents that improve seed germination rates, enhance nutrient delivery, and promote plant growth.
Enhancing stress resilience, enabling seeds to better withstand adverse conditions such as drought, salinity, and nutrient deficiency.
Exploring eco-friendly solutions by synthesizing biocompatible and sustainable nanomaterials for agricultural use.
Assessing the impact of nanoprimed seeds on crop yield, soil health, and long-term sustainability in real-world farming conditions.

This work is carried out in collaboration with Prof. Jos T. Puthur, Dept. of Botany, University of Calicut.