Dr. Titash Mondal, an assistant professor at IIT Kharagpur, holds degrees in Chemistry from the University of Calcutta and Rubber Technology from IIT Kharagpur. He has specialized in carbon nanomaterials and polymers during his joint PhD between IIT Patna and the University of Houston, USA under the joint guidance of Prof. Anil K. Bhowmick and Prof. Ramanan Krishnamoorti.
Before joining academia, Dr. Mondal worked at Momentive Performance Materials (Formerly GE Silicones), specializing in silicone rubber composite applications in autonomous and electric vehicles. Currently, he is an independent academic researcher focusing on elastomer composite based flexible/ wearable sensors and Triboelectric nanogenerators.
For a decade, he has concentrated on graphene and its derivatives for application in a wide variety of polymers for different applications. Dr. Mondal is the author of several peer reviewed research articles published in journals of high repute, holder of several granted patents filed internationally (viz. USA, Europe, China), and editor of one book.
During his webinar he discussed the challenges associated with nanomaterials in rubber composites, including dispersion and agglomeration, compatibility with the matrix, processing constraints and environmental health and safety concerns.
He proposed several mitigation strategies, including using agents to break non-covalent interactions in situ polymerization, ultra sonication and modifying the character of the nanomaterials. He also highlighted the importance of the latex blending technique for creating master batches. He demonstrated the impact of nanomaterials on the mechanical properties and functional attributes of rubber composites, such as flame retardancy, thermal stability and barrier properties.
He also discussed the challenges in the electric vehicle segment, particularly with lithium ion batteries prone to catching fire due to their flammable electrolyte. He proposed using nanotechnology, specifically adhesive-grade rubbers with nanomaterials to prevent thermal runaway.
Further, he addressed the issue of increased data transmission in next generation cars, which can lead to heat buildup and the need for thermal interface materials. He suggested using silicone rubbers or liquid LSR-based technologies with nano fillers like zinc oxide or alumina to address this issue. Additionally, Prof. mentioned the problem of electromagnetic interference in electric vehicles and proposed using electromagnetic shielding gaskets made from polyurethane or carbon based nano fillers and highlighted the increased weight and strain on tires in electric vehicles, suggesting the use of nanomaterials or nanocomposites to create more robust tires.
He also suggested some commercially available grades of nano silica and recommended a concentration of 2 to 3 phr for fire retardant nano clay. The webinar was attended by 100+ participants. The next series and lecture will take place on 6 May 2025.