Prof. Rajeev Mehta

Head, Coordinator COE in Materials

Specialization

Polymers and Polymer Nanocomposites

Email

rmehta@thapar.edu

Specialization

Polymers and Polymer Nanocomposites

Email

rmehta@thapar.edu

Contact No: +91(175)2593440

Designation: Professor and Head(CHED), Co-ordinator, Centre of Excellence in Emerging Materials

Education:

  • PhD,Chemical Engineering, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, Punjab, India.

        Thesis: Modeling and Simulation of Poly (lactic acid)Polymerization 

  • MS, Chemical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA. GPA: 3.70/4.00 (First in class)

     Thesis: A Study of the Mechanical Properties andthe equilibrium Nature of the Blend of the Thermotropic Liquid Crystalline Copolyesters

  • B.Tech, Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India, CGPA: 8.07/10.00

Experiences:

  • COORDINATOR for the $ 2 million facility for material research (Center of Excellence in Emerging Materials - CEEMS) at TIET in collaboration with Virginia Tech, USA, since October 2019

  • PROFESSOR, 01/07/2014 to Present, Department of Chemical Engineering (Head of Department 08/08/2011 – 07/08/2014) Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology

  • ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, 01/2006 to 01/07/2014, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology.

  • ASSISTANT PROFESSOR (Reader), 07/2000 to 01/2006, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology.

  • SCIENTIST C, 04/97 to 03/99, National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR), Pune

  • EXECUTIVE, 08/96 to 03/97, Cosmo Films Ltd., Waluj, Aurangabad.

  • POOL OFFICER, 06/93 to 12/94, Shriram Institute of Industrial Research, 19 University Road, Delhi – 7.

  • VISITING SCIENTIST, 09/89 to 06/92, U.S. Air Force Materials Laboratory, MLBC & MLBP, WPAFB, Dayton, Ohio, U.S.A.

Teaching Interests:

  • Fluid Mechanics

  • Polymer Science and Technology

  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Research Interests

  • Graphene-based epoxy coatings for corrosion inhibition in reinforcing bars in Concrete

  • Synthesis of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide from coal, and scale-up of the process

  • Enhanced energy absorption of interpenetrating polymer network of polyborodimethylsiloixane and polyurethane foam

  • Synthesis of polyaniline-metal-oxide/chalcogenide-coal-derived-GO/C3N4 ternary nanocomposites for wastewater treatment

  • Nano particle reinforced matrix in Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) and their hygrothermal studies.

  • Enhancing the impact strength of nano particle reinforced epoxy based FRP by addition of different polymers

  • Chemical sequestration of carbon dioxide to give polycarbonates/terpolymers

  • Development of polymer nanocomposites for wastewater treatment by adsorption

  • Studies on STF - Nanoclay based composites for blast mitigation systems

  • Synthesis of biodegradable polymer like Polylactic acid and also its microwave synthesis. In addition, their nanocomposites with CNT and Nanoclay are also of interest

  • Composites of polymeric fibers and kraft paper for application as insulation layer in transformers

  • Additionally I have earlier also worked in the following areas: Liquid crystalline copolyesters of HBA/PET, Molecular composite blends based on PBZT, Graphitic foams from mesophase pitch, Synthesis of perfluoro ether oil, Pultrusion of polyester + glass fibers composite, Modeling and Simulation of PLA polymerization, Effect of radiation on PLGA etc.

Publications: SCI Journals: 73 + Non-SCI Journals: 13 + 2 Patents,  Encyclopaedia Chapters: 4 + Book Chapter 1 ;  Conference Papers & Presentations: 55

List of Papers in SCI Journals (73)

 

1. Lee Charles Y-C, Swiatkiewicz J., Prasad P.N., Mehta R. and Bai S.J.  (1991) Third order non-linear optical properties of poly p- phenylene benzobisthiozole (PBZT) and its novel composite with zytel processed via methane sulphonic acid solution extrusion; Polymer, 32 (7) / 1195-1199, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 4.231].

2. Dotrong M., Mehta R., Balchin G.A., Tomlinson R.C., Sinsky M., Lee C.Y-C. and Evers R.C. (1993) Synthesis, processing and characterization of non-linear optical thiophene-poly-p-phenylene benzobisthiozole (T-PBT) polymers; Journal of Polymer Science: Part A- Polymer Chemistry, 31/723-729, Wiley [Impact Factor: 2.591].

3. Mehta R.  and Lee Charles Y-C (1993) Characterization and analysis of defects in non-linear optical molecular composites; Polymer & Engineering Science, 33 (12) / 764-771, Wiley [Impact Factor: 1.917].

4. Mitler-Nehar S., Otomo A. ,  Stegmen G.I.,  Lee Charles Y-C , Mehta R. , Agrawal A.K , Jehneke S.A. (1993_) Waveguiding in substrate supported and freestanding films of  insoluble conjugated polymers ; Applied Physics Letters, 62 (2) / 115-117, American Institute of Physics [Impact Factor: 3.597].

5. Mehta R., Anderson D. and Hagger J. (2003) Graphitic open-celled carbon foams: processing and characterization; Carbon, 41 (11) / 2174-2176, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 8.821].

6. Mehta R., Kumar V., Bhunia H. and Upadhyay S.N. (2005) Synthesis of poly(lactic acid): A review; Journal Of Macromolecular Science – Polymer Reviews,45 (4) / 325-349, Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 7.304].

7. Mehta R., Kumar V., Upadhyay S.N. (2007) Mathematical modeling of the poly(lactic acid) ring-opening polymerization kinetics; Polymer-Plastic Technology & Engineering, 46(3) / 257-264, Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 1.973].

8. Mehta R., Kumar V.,  Upadhyay S.N. (2007) Mathematical modeling of the poly(lactic acid) ring-opening polymerization using Stannous Octoate as a Catalyst; Polymer-Plastic Technology & Engineering, 46(10)/ 933-937, Taylor & Francis Impact Factor: 1.973].

9. Singh R.,  Mehta R. and Kumar V. (2011) Simultaneous removal of Cu, Ni and Zn metal ions using bulk liquid membrane system; Desalination, 272, 170-173, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 7.098].

10. Mehta R., Kumar V., Upadhyay S.N. (2011) Kinetic Parameters Estimation Of Ring-Opening Poly(Lactic Acid) Polymerization  By Modeling and Simulation; Journal Of Polymer Engineering, 31, 251-252, De gruyter [Impact Factor: 1.126].

11. Kaur P.,Mehta R.,  Upadhyay S.N. (2011) Role of important Parameters In Ring Opening Polymerization Of Polylactide; Journal Of Polymer Engineering, 31, 243-249, De gruyter [Impact Factor: 1.126].

12. Jain A., Mehta R. and Mittal S. (2011) Modeling impact of solar radiation on site selection for solar PV Power Plants in India; International Journal Of Green Energy, 8, 486-498, Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 1.388].

13. Kaur P.,Mehta R., Berek D., Upadhyay S.N. (2011) Synthesis of Polylactide: Effect of Dispersion of the Initiator; Journal Of Macromolecular Science Part A, PAC, 48:10, 840-845,Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 1.349].

14. Kaur Paramjit, Mehta Rajeev, Berek Dusan and Upadhyay S.N. (2012) Synthesis of Polylactide under Inert Atmosphere and Vacuum; Macromol  Symposia, 315, 106-111,Wiley [Impact Factor: 0.68].

15. Singla P.,  Mehta R., Berek D.,  Upadhyay S.N. (2012) Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Poly(Lactic acid) and its Characterization Using Size Exclusion Chromatography; Journal Of Macromolecular Science – Part A PAC, A49, 11, 963-970, 2012 , Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 1.349].

16. Jain A., Vu. T., Mehta R. and Mittal S. (2012 online); (2013 print) Optimizing the Cost and Performance of Parabolic Trough Solar Plants with Thermal Energy Storage in India; Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy, DOI: 10.1002/Ep.11660; 32 (3), 824-829, Wiley [Impact Factor: 1.989].

17. Singla R. and Mehta R. (2012) Preparation and Characterization of Polylactic Acid-Based Biodegradable Blends Processed Under Microwave Radiation ; Polymer-Plastics Technology And Engineering, 51(10),  1014-1017, Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 1.973].

18. Jain Amit, Chalapathi Rao P.N.V.B., Choudhury Poulami , Mehta Rajeev , Mittal Susheel(2012) Optimization Studies for hybrid and storage designs for parabolic solar  Trough systems with the System Advisor Model; Environmental Progress & Sustainabl Energy  DOI 10.1002/Ep.1171932(4), 1247-1254, Wiley [Impact Factor: 1.989].

19. Narang Shilpa, Mehta Rajeev , Upadhyay  S. Nath (2013) Polyethylene Glycol and Montmorillonite Clay Anchored Schiff Base Ligand-Metal Complexes; Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, 52 (11),  3967–3973, ACS [Impact Factor: 3.573].

20. Singla P., Mehta R., Berek D., Upadhyay S.N.  (2014) Ring Opening Polymerization of Lactide in a Monomode Microwave using Stannous Octoate and Dibutyltin Dimethoxide Catalysts; Journal Of Macromolecular Science – Part A PAC 51(4), 350-361, Taylor & Francis [Impact Factor: 1.349].

21. Kaur Manpreet , Mehta Rajeev , Singh Surinder  (2014) The effect of O6+ and Si7+ ion beam irradiations on poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (50:50) copolymer; Polymer Science Series   B Vol. 56, Issue 5, 657-663, Springer [Impact Factor: 0.976].

22. Singla P., Mehta R., Upadhyay S.N.  (2014) Microwave Assisted In-situ Ring-opening Polymerization of Polylactide/Clay Nanocomposites: Effect of Clay Loading; Applied Clay Science DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2014.03.012 95, 67-73, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 4.605].

23. Kaur Manpreet,  Singh Surinder , Mehta Rajeev  (2014) Silver ion beam irradiation effects on poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)/Clay nanocomposites; Applied Physics A: Materials Science and Processing Volume 117, Issue 4 (2014), Page 2241-2249(DOI: 10.1007/s00339-014-8653-3), Springer [Impact Factor: 1.810].

24. Puri Pooja, Mehta Rajeev,  Rattan Sunita (2014)Synthesis and mechanical properties of Polyurethane/Clay nanocomposites; Journal of Optoelectronics and Advanced Materials, Vol.16 (9-10), 1126-1130 Natl inst optoelectronics, Romania [Impact Factor: 0.631].

25. Puri Pooja , Mehta Rajeev,  Rattan Sunita(2015) Synergistic Effects of Clay and GNPs on Electrical and Mechanical Properties of PU/GNP/OMMT Ternary Composite; Journal of Optoelectronics and Advanced Materials,Vol. 17, No. 3-4, 477 – 483, Romania [Impact Factor: 0.631].

26. Garg Mohit,  Sharma Shruti , Mehta Rajeev  (2015) Pristine and amino functionalized carbon nanotubes reinforced glass fiber epoxy composites; Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing doi:10.1016/j.compositesa.2015.05.012 Vol. 76, 92-101, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 6.444].

27. Puri Pooja, Mehta Rajeev, Rattan Sunita (2015) Synthesis of highly conductive Polyurethane/Graphite composites for electromagnetic interference shielding; Journal of Electronic Materials, 44 (11), 4255-4268, Springer [Impact Factor: 1.774].

28. Narang Shipla, Mehta Rajeev, Upadhyay S.N. (2015) Copolymerization of Propylene Oxide and Carbon Dioxide; Current Organic Chemistry, 19 (24), pp. 2344-2357, Bentham Science [Impact Factor: 1.933].

29. Narang  Shilpa,  Macova Eva,  Berek Dusan , Upadhyay S.N. , Mehta Rajeev (2015) Synthesis of Poly(propylene carbonate) from Highly Active, Inexpensive Achiral SalphCo(III)X  as Initiator and Bis(Triphenyl Phosphine) Iminium as Co-initiator; Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 133 (12), 43099-43109, Wiley [Impact Factor: 2.520].

30. Narang Shilpa , Mehta Rajeev , Berek Dusan , Upadhyay S.N. (2016) Copolymerization of Propylene Oxide and CO2 Using Achiral Salophen Co(III) Penta- florobenzoate  as Catalyst and tetrabutyl ammonium bromide as Co-catalyst; Journal of Macromolecular Science: Pure and Applied Chemistry 53 (5), 297 – 300, Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 1.349].

31. Kaur Manpreet, Singh Surinder, Mehta Rajeev (2016) Physico-Chemical Modification Induced in PLGA/OMMT Nanocomposite films by Li3+ Ion Beam; Vacuum,125, 170-179, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 2.906].

32. Garg Mohit, Sharma Shruti, Sharma Sandeep, Mehta Rajeev (2016) Non-contact damage monitoring technique for FRP laminates using guided waves; Smart Structures and Systems An Int’l Journal, 17 No. 5, 795-817, Techno Press [Impact Factor: 3.557].

33. Sharma Bikramjit, Chhibber Rahul, Mehta Rajeev(2016) Effect of surface treatment of nanoclay on the mechanical properties of epoxy/glass fiber/clay nanocomposites; Composites Interface 23(7), 623-640 DOI:10.1080/09276440.2016.1165522, Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 2.32].

34. Garg Mohit , Sharma Shruti , Mehta Rajeev (2016) Processing of functionalized and pristine carbon nanotube epoxy composites with silane- treated glass fiber; Materials and Manufacturing Processes 31(5), 2044-2056 DOI:10.1080/10426914.2016.1176186, Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 3.046].

35. Narang Shilpa , Mehta Rajeev , Berek Dusan , Upadhyay S.N  (2016) Effect of electron density on the catalysts for copolymerization of propylene oxide and CO2; Journal of Polymer Research, 23(5), 1-8 DOI: 10.1007/s10965-016-0994-5, Springer [Impact Factor: 2.426].

36. Garg Mohit,  Sharma Shruti ,Mehta Rajeev  (2016) Carbon nanotube-reinforced glass fiber epoxy composite laminates exposed to hygrothermal conditioning ; Journal of Materials Science, 51(18), 8562-8578 DOI:10.1007/s10853-016-0117-z, Springer [Impact Factor: 3.553].

37. Bhandari Deepak, Chhibber Rahul , Arora Navneet , Mehta  Rajeev (2016) Investigation of TiO2–SiO2–CaO–CaF2 based electrode coatings on weld metal chemistry and mechanical behaviour of bimetallic welds; Journal of Manufacturing Processes 23: 61-74, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 4.086].

38. Kaur Manpreet , Singh Surinder , Mehta Rajeev  (2016) A comparison of modifications Induced by Li3+ and Ag8+ ion beams on poly(lactide-co-glycolide) films; Polymer Science Part B Volume 58 (6), 759–768, Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 0.976].

39. Bhandari Deepak , Chhibber Rahul , Arora Navneet , Mehta Rajeev  (2016) Investigations on weld metal chemistry and mechanical behavior of bimetallic welds using CaO–CaF2–SiO2–Ni based electrode coatings; Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part L: Journal of Materials: Design and Applications DOI: 10.1177/1464420716677316233(4), 563-579,2019, Sage [Impact Factor: 2.014].

40. Sharma Bikramjit, Chhibber Rahul, Mehta Rajeev (2017) Curing studies and mechanical properties of glass fiber reinforced composites based on silanized clay minerals; Applied Clay Science 138, 89–99, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 4.605].

41. Garg Mohit, Sharma Shruti, Mehta Rajeev (2017) Role of curing conditions and silanization of glass fibers on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced glass fiber epoxy composites; Composites Interface 24(2), 233-253 http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09276440.2016.1201373, Taylor and Francis[Impact Factor: 2.32].  

42. Narang Shilpa , Mehta Rajeev , Upadhyay S.Nath  (2017) Solvent free cycloaddition of CO2 and Propylene Oxide to Cyclic carbonates using different ligand metal complexes; Synthesis and Reactivity in Inorganic and Nano-Metal Chemistry DOI:10.1080/15533174.2016.122867347(6) 909-916, Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 0.827].

43. Singh Karanbir, Nanda Tarun, Mehta Rajeev  (2017) Compatibilization of polypropylene fibers in epoxy based GFRP/clay nanocomposites for improved impact strength; Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing 98, 207-217 DOI:org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2017.03.027, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 7.664].

44. Garg Mohit, Sharma Shruti, Sharma Sandeep, Mehta Rajeev (2017) Effect of hygrothermal aging on GFRP composites in marine environment; Steel and Composite Structures, An International Journal 25 (1), 93-104. DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12989/scs.2017.25.1.093, Techno-Press [Impact Factor: 4.394].  

45. Singh Karanbir,  Nanda Tarun , Mehta Rajeev  (2017) Addition of nanoclay and compatibilized EPDM rubber for improved impact strength of epoxy glass fiber composites; Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing 103 (2017) 263–271, , Elsevier[Impact Factor: 7.664].

46. Singh  Mansi, Mehta Rajeev,  Verma K. Sanjeev, Biswas Ipsita (2017) Effect of addition of different nano-clays on the fumed silica- polyethylene glycol based shear-thickening fluids; Materials Research Express 5 (2018)(01) 4001 https://doi.org/10.1088/2053-1591/aa9f3f, IOP Science [Impact Factor: 1.929].

47. Sharma Bikramjit, Chhibber Rahul, Mehta Rajeev (2017) Effect of mixing parameters, post-curing and stoichiometry on mechanical properties of fiber reinforced epoxy-clay nanocomposites; Part L: Journal of Materials: Design and Applications DOI:10.1177/1464420717752023, Sage Publications [Impact Factor: 2.014].

48. Singh Karanbir, Nanda Tarun , Mehta Rajeev (2018) Processing of poly-ethylene terephthalate fiber reinforcement to improve compatibility with constituents of GFRP nanocomposites; Materials and Manufacturing Processes 33:2, 165-173, DOI: 10.1080/10426914.2017.1291955 , Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 4.616].

49. Sharma Bikramjit , Chhibber Rahul and  Mehta Rajeev (2018) Seawater ageing of glass fiber reinforced epoxy nanocomposites based on silylated clays ; Polymer Degradation and Stability, 147, 103-114, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 4.032].

50. Singh Mansi; Verma Sanjeev; Biswas  ipsita; Mehta Rajeev (2018) Effect of molecular weight of polyethylene glycol on the rheological properties of fumed silica-polyethylene glycol shear thickening fluid; Materials Research Express 5 (2018)(05) 5704 https://doi.org/10.1088/2053-1591/aac25c, IOP Science [Impact Factor: 1.620].

51. Passi Pavny, Singh Mansi , Mehta Rajeev (2018) Steady shear and dynamic strain thickening of halloysite nanotubes and fumed silica shear thickening composite; Journal of Polymer Engineering https://doi.org/10.1515/polyeng-2018-0043, De Gruyter [Impact Factor: 0.543].

52. Singh Mansi; Verma Sanjeev; Biswas ipsita; Mehta Rajeev (2018) Effect of addition of silicone oil on the rheology of fumed silica and polyethylene glycol shear thickening suspension; Journal of Polymer Engineering  https://doi.org/10.1515/polyeng-2018-0054, De Gruyter [Impact Factor: 0.543].

53. Shelly  Daksh; Singh Karanbir; Nanda  Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (2018) Addition of nanomer clays to GFRPs for enhanced impact strength and fracture toughness; Materials Research Express 5 105013 https://doi.org/10.1088/2053-1591/aadb0d, IOP Science [Impact Factor: 2.025].

54. Nanda  Tarun; Sharma  Gaurav ; Mehta  Rajeev; Shelly Daksh ; Singh Karanbir (March 2019) Mechanisms for enhanced impact strength of epoxy based nanocomposites reinforced with silicate platelets; Materials Research Express 6(6) 065061, DOI: 10.1088/2053-1591/ab1023, IOP Science [Impact Factor: 2.025].

55. Singh Mansi , Verma K. Sanjeev,  Biswas Ipsita , Mehta Rajeev, (July 2019) Rheology of Fumed Silica and Polyethylene Glycol Shear Thickening Suspension with Nanoclay as an Additive; Defence Science Journal, 69(4), 402-408. https://doi.org/10.14429/dsj.69.12420, DRDO [Impact Factor: 0.589].

56. Raturi Madhav,  Sharma Bikramjit, Shelly  Daksh , Singh Karanbir, Nanda Tarun and Mehta  Rajeev (September 2019) Tensile behaviour and characterization of epoxy-clay-poly (ethylene terephthalate) nanocomposites; Materials Research Express 6, 115014 DOI: 10.1088/2053-1591/ab43e9, IOP Science [Impact Factor: 1.620].

57. Kalotra Shivani , Mehta  Rajeev (April 2020) Synthesis of Polyaniline/Clay Nanocomposites by In-Situ Polymerization and its Application for the Removal of Acid Green 25 Dye from Wastewater; Polymer Bulletin, 78(5), 2439-2463

DOI: 10.1007/s00289-020-03222-3, Springer [Impact Factor: 2.870].

58. Shelly  Daksh; Singh  Karanbir; Nanda Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (June 2020) Advancements in multi-scale filler reinforced epoxy nanocomposites for improved impact strength: a review; Critical Reviews in Solid State and Material Sciences       https://doi.org/10.1080/10408436.2020.1777934,  Taylor and Francis [Impact Factor: 11.178].

59. Sharma Nikhil, Sharma Shruti, Sharma K. Sandeep, Mehta Rajeev  (October 2020) Evaluation of corrosion inhibition and self - healing capabilities of Nanoclay and tung oil  microencapsulated epoxy coatings on Rebars in concrete; Construction and Building Materials 259, 120278 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2020.120278, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 7.4].

60. Shelly Daksh; Nanda Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (June 2021)  Addition of compatiblized nanoclay and UHMWPE fibers to epoxy based GFRPs for improved mechanical properties; Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 145, 106371, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2021.106371, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 9.463].

61. Shelly Daksh; Nanda Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (March 2021)  Addition of compatibilized nanoclay to GFRCs for improved izod impact strength and tensile properties; Part L: Journal of Materials: Design and Applications, 235(9), 2022-2035; DOI: 10.1177/14644207211009923. Sage [ Impact Factor: 2.663].

62. Kalotra Shivani , Mehta  Rajeev (April 2021) Carbon aerogel and Polyaniline/carbon aerogel adsorbents for Acid green 25 dye: synthesis, characterization and an adsorption study; Chemical Engineering Communications, https://doi.org/10.1080/00986445.2021.1919650 [Impact Factor: 2.494].

63. Shelly Daksh; Nanda Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (December 2021) Novel epoxy‐based glass fiber reinforced composites containing compatibilized para‐aramid fibers and silanized nanoclay for improved impact strength; Polymer Composites DOI: 10.1002/pc.26453; 1357-1370 [Impact Factor: 3.531].

64. Sharma Nikhil, Sharma Shruti, Sharma K. Sandeep, Mehta Rajeev (March 2022) Evaluation of corrosion inhibition capability of graphene modified epoxy coatings on reinforcing bars in concrete; Construction and Building Materials, 322, 126495

 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2022.126495, Elsevier [Impact Factor: 7.4].

65. Shelly Daksh; Nanda Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (Feb 2023)  "Reinforcement of compatibilized nanoclay/Inviya fibers to epoxy based glass fiber nanocomposites for high impact strength applications; Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, 23, 84         

[Impact Factor: 4.4].

66.  Sharma Nikhil, Sharma Shruti, Sharma K. Sandeep, Mehta Rajeev, Mahajan Roop Lal (March 2023) Investigations on Corrosion Inhibition Performance of Self-healing Nano-clay Modified Epoxy Coatings; Journal of Building Engineering 70, 106368 [Impact Factor: 7.144].

67.  Shelly Daksh; Nanda Tarun; Mehta  Rajeev (July 2023) Synergistic effect of compatibilized nanoclay/polyethylene fibers on the impact strength of epoxy-glass fiber nanocomposites; Polymer Composites DOI: 10.1002/pc.27577 , 1-14  [Impact Factor 5.2].

68. Sharma Nikhil, Sharma Shruti, Sharma K. Sandeep, Mehta Rajeev (July 2023) Nano-Modified Epoxy Coatings for Enhanced Corrosion Inhibition in Reinforcing Bars; Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 77, 1423-1431, https://rdcu.be/diRTT [Impact Factor: 1.5].

69. Garg, Anushka; Basu, Soumen; Lee, Seul-Yi; Mahajan, Roop; Mehta, Rajeev (July 2023) Simplified One-Pot Synthesis of Graphene Oxide from Different Coals and its Potential Application in Enhancing the Mechanical Performance of GFRP Nanocomposites; ACS Applied Nano Materials, 6, 14594−14608 [Impact Factor: 6.14].

70. Hait Pritam, Mehta Rajeev, Basu Soumen (October 2023)  Advancing Sustainable Solutions: Harnessing Polyaniline/BiOCl/GO Ternary Nanocomposites for Solar-Powered Degradation of Organic Pollutant and Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation; Journal of Cleaner Production, 424, 138851 [Impact Factor: 11.1].

71. Garg, Anushka; Basu, Soumen; Mehta, Rajeev; Mahajan, Roop (February 2024) Enhancing the Mechanical Performance of E-Glass Fiber Epoxy Composites using Coal-Derived Graphene Oxide; Polymer Composites, 445 (3)  [Impact Factor: 5.2]

72. Daksh Shelly,  Varun Singhal,  Tarun Nanda,  Rajeev Mehta, Radhamanohar Aepuru,  Seul-Yi Lee,  Soo-Jin Park (May 2024) A review of the emerging approaches for developing multi‐scale filler‐reinforced epoxy nanocomposites with enhanced impact performance; Polymer Composites. 1-30,  https://doi.org/10.1002/pc.28479 [Impact Factor: 5.2]

73. Garg, Anushka; Basu, Soumen; Mehta, Rajeev; Mahajan, Roop (June 2024) Enhancement in mechanical properties of GFRP-coal-derived graphene oxide composites by addition of multiwalled carbon nanotubes and halloysite nanotubes: a comparative study; Polymer Composites, Accepted  [Impact Factor: 5.2]

 

 

Papers in Non-SCI Journals (13)

The paper entitled “Clay Modification by the Use of Organic Cations” published in 2012 in “Green and Sustainable Chemistry”, a SCRIP publication, has 10,689 Downloads, 20,374 Views, and 160 citations till Jan 2024. As per the editor, it proves to be one of the five most popular papers in the journal, till date.  

 

Patents (2)

  • Indian Patent No. 426663, titled POLYLACTIC ACID AND PROCESS FOR PREPARATION THEREOF, was granted on 24 March 2023. The inventors are: Dr. P. Singla, Dr. Dusan Berek, Dr. S.N. Upadhyay, and Dr. Rajeev Mehta.
  • Indian Patent No. 451854, titled PANI/MMT CLAY NANOCOMPOSITES FOR WASTE WATER TREATMENT, was granted on 15 September 2023.  The inventors are Dr. Shivani Kalotra and Dr. Rajeev Mehta.

Conference Papers & Presentations (55)

International Conferences (those held outside India): 10

Indian Conferences: 45

Lectures delivered online:

 

  •  Faculty development program on “Challenges and opportunities in recent emerging technologies” during 6-10 July 2020.  Organized by Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Institute of Engineering and Technology, Vishapuri, Nanded, Maharashtra.
  • A half-day session on “Corrosion inhibition and self-healing capabilities of nanoclay and tung oil microencapsulated epoxy coatings on rebars”, 9 August, 2020 organized by “The Institution of Engineers (India)” Varanasi Local Chapter.
  • Short term course on “Current industrial practices in chemical engineering” on 7-11 October 2020.  Organized by NIT Jalandhar.
  • National Virtual Workshop on “Environment, energy and material waste” on 4 December 2020.  Organized by Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, Jalana Campus.
  • An invited lecture in CONIAPS-2020, Organised by IIT (BHU), Varanasi, December 18-20, 2020

  • Contributed Chapters (Encyclopaedia)

     

    1. R. Mehta, P. Singla, V. Kumar and S. N. Upadhyay, “Synthesis of poly(lactic acid): a review”, Book Chapter in Encyclopedia of Biomedical Polymers and Polymeric Biomaterials, http://dx.doi.org/10.1081/E-EBPP-120052051, 11 Volume, 6440-6479, ISBN 9781439898796, 4 Dec 2015, CRC.

     

    2. P. Singla, R. Mehta and S. N. Upadhyay, “Polylactic Acid (PLA): Microwave Assisted Synthesis”, Book Chapter in Encyclopedia of Biomedical Polymers and Polymeric Biomaterials, http://dx.doi.org/10.1081/E-EBPP-120050549, 11 Volume, 6433-6448, ISBN 9781439898796, 27 January 2016, CRC.

     

    3. Z. Arif, P.K. Mishra, S.N. Upadhyay, R. Mehta, “Drug Delivery: Polymers and Polymeric Membranes”, Book Chapter in Encyclopedia of Polymers Applications, 3 Volume, 829, Taylor and Francis, ISBN 9781498729932, 2 January 2019.

     

    4. Shilpa Narang, Zeenat Arif, Rajeev Mehta, P.K. Mishra, S.N. Upadhyay “Polymers and Polymeric Membranes”, Book Chapter in Encyclopedia of Polymers Applications, 2077, Taylor and Francis, ISBN 9781498729932, 2 January 2019.

Projects (18)

Completed Projects (11)

 

1. Synthesis of poly (lactic acid) using new catalysts and its kinetics study using modeling and simulation  Amount: Rs. 21.6 lacs (May 2007-Dec 2010) Naval Research Board (DRDO) Dr. S.N. Upadhyay

2. Batch studies for simultaneous removal of copper, nickel and zinc metal ions by bulk liquid membrane technique  Amount: Rs. 1.0 lac (2008) Thapar University

3. Preparation and characterization of polymer/ceramic fibre and cellulose composite paper for electrical insulation  Amount: Rs. 9.0 lac (Nov 2011- August 2013) Crompton Greaves, Mumbai

4. Synthesis of polycarbonates from carbon dioxide and propylene oxide Amount: Rs. 14.1 lacs (March 2012- March 2014) AICTE (RPS)  Co-PI Prof. S.N. Upadhyay

5. Microwave assisted polymerization of lactic acid and polylactic acid nanoparticles Amount: Rs. 50,000 (Jan 2013- Jan 2014) IICHE 

6. Processing and characterization of fiber reinforced polymer nanocomposites and their degradation in marine environments Amount: Rs. 21.54 Lakhs (Nov 2012- Feb 2016) Naval Research Board (DRDO), Dr. Bikramjit Sharma

7. Studies on STF – nanoclay based composites for personal armour systems  Amount: Rs. 32.2 Lakhs (May 2014-November 2017) ARMREB (CDSW) DRDO

8. Polymer fiber addition to multi-scale glass fiber reinforced clay epoxy nanocomposites for improved impact strength Amount: Rs. 28.92 Lakhs (March 2018 – September 2021) DST (SERB), Dr. Tarun Nanda

9.  Sustainable concrete using epoxy nano-composite coatings utilizing coal derived graphene and its derivatives (July 1, 2021 to  June 30, 2022) CEEMS

10.  Coal derived graphene reinforced hybrid glass/carbon fiber epoxy nano composites for improved impact resistance (July 1, 2021 to  June 30, 2022) CEEMS

11.  Enhanced energy absorption of interpenetrating polymer network of polyborodimethylsiloixane and polyurethane foams (6th August 2021) Amount: 90 lakhs, DRDO (ARMREB)

Ongoing projects (7)

1. Chemical sequestration of carbon dioxide to yield degradable terpolymers  (January 2020 – January 2024) CEEMS 

2. Graphene-based epoxy coatings for corrosion inhibition in reinforcing bars in Concrete (January 2020 – January 2024) CEEMS

3.  Synthesis of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide from coal, and scale-up of the process (October 2019 –  October 2024) CEEMS 

5.  Synthesis of polyaniline-metal-oxide/chalcogenide-coal-derived-GO/C3N4 ternary nanocomposites for wastewater treatment (January 2022 – January 2025) CEEMS

6.  Sustainable Nano-Engineered Smart Self-Healing Concrete Utilizing Graphene and Its Derivatives (June 14, 2022 to June 13, 2025) Amount: 29.83 lakhs, DST SERB, Co-PI

7. Performance Evaluation of CNF and Graphene Reinforced Hybrid Glass/Carbon Fiber Epoxy Nano-Composite for Improved Ballistic Resistance (Sept 1, 2023 to Aug 31, 2025) CEEMS

8. Self-healing Performance of FRP-FRP Joints using Microcapsules Reinforced Epoxy Composite (Sept 1, 2023 to Aug 31, 2024) CEEMS

 

Ph.D. Theses (18 Awarded and 6 Ongoing)

1. Paramjeet Kaur, Synthesis of PLA with new catalysts and modeling & simulation of its polymerization kinetics. 26.12.2011    Dr. S.N. Upadhyay, IIT-BHU

2. Pooja Puri,  Synthesis and Characterization of Polyurethane Nanocomposites     09-06-2016      Dr. Sunita Rattan, Amity Univ.

3. Pankil Singla, Microwave assisted polymerization of lactide and in-situ preparation of poly (lactic acid)- clay  nanocomposites  14.08.2014      Dr. S.N. Upadhyay, IT-BHU

4. Amit Jain, Modeling and Simulation of insulation for solar PV and thermal based power plants in India            25.10.2013      Dr. Susheel Mittal, Thapar Univ.

5. S. Shyam Kumar, Design and development of load bearing composite scaffold used in bone tissue engineering      29-08-2018      Dr. Rahul Chibber, IIT Jodhpur

6. Manpreet Kaur,  Radiation induced modifications in Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) polymer 10.03.2015, Dr. S. Singh, GNDU

7.Shilpa Narang,  Synthesis of polycarbonates from carbon dioxide and propylene oxide 06.06.2016        Dr. S.N. Upadhyay, IT-BHU

8. Bikramjit Sharma,   Processing and characterization of fiber reinforced polymer nanocomposites and their degradation under hygrothermal loading        03.10.2018      Dr. Rahul Chibber, IIT Jodhpur

9.Deepak Bhandari,    Design and development of SMAW for bimetallic welds 05.05.2017  Dr. Rahul Chibber,  IIT Jodhpur, Dr. Navneet Arora, IITR

10. Hamendar K. Aggarwal,   Designing a rig for investigating thermal fatigue of bimetallic welds            27.04.2017      Dr. Rahul Chibber, IIT Jodhpur, Dr. Navneet Arora, IITR

11. Mohit Garg, Performance evaluation of carbon nanotubes modified fibre reinforced polymer composites            22.10.2016      Dr. Shruti Sharma

12. Karanbir Singh,     Fabrication and characterization of epoxy based GFRP nanocomposites modified with polymer fiber/ elastomer for improved mechanical properties 26.03.2019   Dr. Tarun Nanda

13. Shivani Kalotra,    Studies on polymer nano-composite adsorbents for dye removal Jan 2022.

14. Mansi Singh, Studies on polymer nanocomposites as shear thickening fluids 25.09.2019

15. Daksh Shelly, Polymeric filler reinforced glass fiber epoxy nanocomposites for improved impact strength Dr. Tarun Nanda 04.04.2023

16. Vinod Kumari, Nanoformulations of Herbal Plants to Increase Their Efficacy Towards Different Ailments  Dr. Aditi Sangal, Amity University 2021.

17. Ravinder Kaur, In the area of enhancing the impact properties of polymer foams using PBDMS  Ongoing, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Verma

18. Simran, Synthesis and processing of polyborodimethylsiloxane-elastomer blends

to develop an impact absorbing material Ongoing

19. Anushka,  Synthesis of graphene oxide and from different precursors and their fiber-reinforced epoxy nanocomposites  Dr. Soumen Basu and Dr. Roop L Mahajan 10.05.2024

20. Akansha, Activation and utilization of carbon dioxide to yield degradable terpolymer  Ongoing Dr. Amjad Ali

21. Nikhil, Modified Epoxy Coatings for Corrosion Inhibition in Reinforcing Bars in Concrete Dr. Shruti Sharma and Dr. Sandeep Sharma 21-06-2024

22. Shubham Bansal, Performance evaluation and morphological characterization of

styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt reinforced with multi-dimensional nanomaterials Ongoing Dr. Tanuj Chopra, Dr. Vivek Gupta.

23. Pritam Hait, Synthesis of polyaniline-metal-oxide/chalcogenide-coal-derived-GO/C3N4 ternary nanocomposites for wastewater treatment Ongoing Dr. S. Basu

24. Himanshu Choudhary, Self-healing Performance of FRP-FRP joints using microcapsules reinforced epoxy composite Ongoing Dr. H. Chawla

 

Master Theses (32)

 

1. Pankil Singla Organic modification of clay 2009 

2. Ashok Sharma Synthesis and characterization of zirconium phosphoborate and its conversion into granular shape 2010      Dr. Susheel Mittal

3. Ritika Singla Preparation and characterization of pdlla-pcl-starch blends processed under microwave radiation          2010

4. Sumit Kumar Elastomeric polymer composites with nano fillers  2011    Dr. Rahul Chibber

5. Sumit Mahajan Nanoclay reinforced FRP 2011 Dr. Rahul Chibber

6. Ramesh Chandrashekar Polymer fibre-cellulose paper for electrical insulation application 2012 Dr. P. K. Bajpai

7. Rahul Sharma Ion-exchange properties of granular and non-granular zirconium phosphoborate 2011 Dr. Susheel Mittal

8. Rajan Verma Nanoclay reinforcement effects on thermomechanical properties of E glass/nanoclay/epoxy laminates 2012            Bikramjit Sharma

9. Mahakdeep Singh Glass fibre reinforced epoxy nanocomposites: Influence of postcuring and nanoclay content on mechanical properties 2012 Bikramjit Sharma

10. Dawinder Singh Glass fiber/epoxy polymer nanocomposites: manufacturing and mechanical properties            2012 Bikramjit Sharma

11. V. B. Patil Moisture diffusion and thermal aging effects in glass fiber reinforced polymer composites 2013 Bikramjit Sharma

12. Vikas Dager Orientation effect in glass fiber reinforced polymer composites  2013 Bikramjit Sharma

13. Parul Glass fiber/epoxy polymer nanocomposites: effect of another polymeric fiber 2013 Bikramjit Sharma

14. Abhishek Kumar Pandey  Polymer fibre and cellulose composite paper with starch binder for electrical insulation 2013           Dr. P. K. Bajpai

15. Anil  Preparation and characterization of polymer fibre and cellulose paper with polyvinyl alcohol     2013            Bikramjit Sharma

16. Arnaub Singh Study of the characterization and evaluation of cellulosic based solid insulation having low permittivity 2013 Dr. Sushil Chaudhari, CG

17. Yashpal Jindal Glass fibre reinforced epoxy nanocomposites: Effect of addition of Polyethylene Terephthalate fibre 2013  Bikramjit Sharma

18. Bhupinder Singh Nirman  Carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites: Effects of nano reinforcements 2013            Bikramjit Sharma

19. Shivani  Development of adsorbents for water treatment            2014    Dr. V. K. Sangal

20. Madhavraturi  Fabrication and property evaluation of a epoxy-clay-PET nanocomposite system         2014            Dr. Tarun Nanda

21. Gurpreet Kaur Dhingra Study the effect of OMMT dispersion on mechanical behavior of GFRP nanocomposites 2014 Manjeet Singh,  Sundeep Singh

22. Kabal Singh Bhangu, Mechanical properties of glass-fiber reinforced epoxy nanocomposites: Effect of different nanoclays 2014        Bikramjit Sharma

23. Mehak, Microwave in-situ polymerization of poly(lactic acid) and carbon nanotubes and study of its electrical conductivity  2015 Dr. S. Ahuja

24. Gaurav Sharma,  Synthesis, characterization and mechanical behavior of epoxy nanocomposites reinforced with layered silicates 2015  Dr. Tarun Nanda

25. Aditya, Dispersion quantification and mechanical properties of MWCNT epoxy nanocomposites for different processing conditions          2015 Bikramjit Sharma

26. Navdeep Singh,  Fabrication of carbon fiber reinforced composite and effects of surface treatment on composites 2015 Bikramjit Sharma

26. Pavne Passey,  Study of the pre-shearing protocol and rheological parameters of shear-thickening fluids containing nano particles        2016    -----

27. Daksh Shelly, Effect of nanoclay addition on the mechanical properties of glass fibre reinforced epoxy nanocomposites processed through VARIM 2016     Dr. Tarun Nanda

28. Nikhil Sharma, Evaluation of performance of epoxy based coatings for corrosion inhibition in reinforcing bars 2019 Dr. Shruti Sharma

29. Ankush Prashar, Evaluation of performance of polyaniline based epoxy coatings for corrosion inhibition in reinforcing bars 2020 Dr. Shruti Sharma

30.  Shweta, Nano-bubbles enhanced froth flotation process for replacement of acid treatment step in coal to graphene oxide/Multilayer graphene process 2022 Dr (Mrs.) Neetu Singh

31. Shivani Nagaraj, Nano-modification of epoxy coatings on concrete using graphene derivatives 2022 Dr. Shruti Sharma

32. Vaidehi Sharma, Performance of nano-engineered graphene based water borne epoxy coatings on concrete 2023 Dr. Shruti Sharma

Awards and Recognition

 

  • AWARD 2024: Received a commendation certificate and shield from ARMREB, DRDO, during the ARMREB@300 event (16th October 2024) for my work on the 'Development of a New Generation Impact-Absorbing Polymeric Foam.' I was one of six individuals honored nationwide and the only recipient from a private university.
  • AWARD 2022: The research work on mitigating corrosion using nano-reinforced epoxy coating on metal rebars was presented and awarded as the “First” in the “Best Poster” category at the “International Conference on Corrosion and Coatings (i3C)” held at CSIR, National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur during December 07-08, 2022.
  • AWARD 2021:  A “Contract for Acquisition of Research Services” (CARS) (2021) has been sanctioned by DRDO, Jodhpur to Prof. Mehta.  The project is purely consultancy in nature and relates to the development of foams.
  • AWARD 2018: A prestigious award was conferred upon by PlastIndia Foundation, an apex plastics organization of India.   We won the gold trophy in the PlastIndia 2018 (7th Feb 2018) held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat, for the category: Best Research in Polymer Sciences, Technology and Engineering.  Specifically, the award has been given for our work on “Glass fiber reinforced epoxy-silyated clay nanocomposites”, having implications for the Indian navy.
  • AWARD 2018:  Key resource team member in getting DST-FIST awarded to the Department of Chemical Engineering, in the area of polymers (2018, 1.94 Crores).
  • AWARD 2017:  Award given for the “Best Innovative Young Researcher” at the 4th International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN 2017) at SRM University.  This award had been constituted for the first time in the conference, which is the fourth one in this series of the conferences at SRM, and is in addition to the traditional poster and oral presentations awards.  The conference was held during 9-11 August 2017 and attracted delegates numbering above 1100 with active participation from Japan, Taiwan, and Australia etc.
  • AWARD 2016: Represented the university to successfully bag the 3rd FICCI Higher Education Excellence award in the category of Enabling Research, in 2016.
  • AWARD 2015:  Our research work, in the category of Research in the Field of Polymer Science & Technology for the Innovation in “Chemical Fixation of Carbon dioxide and Propylene Oxide to Poly (Propylene Carbonate) and Cyclic Carbonate” was selected as Joint Runners up (from 47 entries from all over the country) for 5th National Award for Technology Innovation in Petrochemicals & Downstream Plastics Processing Industry, given by Ministry of Fertilizers and Chemicals.

      • Invited for the Project Monitoring and Review Committee          (PMRC) of TBRL, DRDO, as an external expert on 14th Feb        2017, 18th May 2017.  Also, invited to the Executive Board         (EB) meeting of TBRL, DRDO on 30th Nov 2016, 20th June       2017.Reviewer for the CSIR- ASPIR scheme proposals 2024  

  • Underwent a one-month training program on entrepreneurship at University of Groningen, The Netherlands, from 25th Feb to 28th March 2017.
  • Received best teaching as well as best research award from Thapar University several times
  • Active participations in various international accreditation and training programs like ABET, CAPSL etc.

Foreign countries visited

1.         USA (1987 – 1992): MS degree and a three-year working stint at WPAFB

2.         UK (2011)

3.         Indonesia (2011): Invited talk in a conference

4.         The Netherlands (2017): One-month training on Entrepreneurship and Innovation at University of Groningen

5.         Malaysia (2017): Invited talk and chair in a conference.

6.         Germany (2019): Invited talk and chair in a conference.

7.         Spain (2022)

 Professional Affiliations

 Life member:            

1.  Asian Polymer Association (L-035)[International]

2. Senior Member of AICHE since 2014 (009900277185) [International]

3.  Punjab Science Congress (L-846) [National]

4.  The Indian Society for Technical Education (LM 57423) [National]

5. Metrology Society of India [LM] [National]

6.  Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (LM 37189) [National]

7.  Indian Plastics Institute (CHA-87) [National]

 

Referee for Journals

 

1.  Applied Science & Manufacturing Composites Part A

2.  Green and Sustainable Chemistry

3.  Indian Journal of Engineering & Materials Sciences

4.  Polymer International

5.  Composites Part B

6.  Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research

7. International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

8. Macromolecular Research

9. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing

10.International Journal of Materials Research

 And many more journals……

Technical Reports

1. Manufacture of Poly(lactic acid) from renewable resources, R. Mehta,  DAS (R & D Project) – Thapar Centre For Industrial Research and Development, Patiala (Pb.), India.

2. Characterization and analysis of defects in non-linear optical molecular composite films, R. Mehta and Charles Y-C Lee, WL-TR-92-4004, Wright - Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, U.S.A.

3. Graphitic foam processing, R. Mehta, Contributive R & D, Vol. 34, Systran Corporation, Dayton, Ohio, U.S.A.

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