APARNA GAUTAM | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. APARNA GAUTAM | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

MNNIT Allahabad, Prayagraj- India

Author Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Aparna Gautam’s academic journey began with a strong inclination toward science and sustainability. From an early stage, she demonstrated a passion for understanding complex chemical systems and their application in real-world environmental challenges. Her intellectual curiosity led her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, which laid a solid foundation in core subjects like reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and process design.

Continuing her quest for deeper understanding, she went on to earn her M.Tech in Chemical Engineering, where she began exploring alternative fuels and clean energy technologies. During this phase, she became particularly interested in biodiesel production 🛢️ as a viable replacement for fossil fuels. Her master’s thesis was an important stepping stone that transitioned seamlessly into her doctoral research at the prestigious Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT) Allahabad, where she was accepted as a Research Scholar.


🔬 Professional Endeavors

During her doctoral tenure at MNNIT Allahabad, Prayagraj, Dr. Gautam delved into cutting-edge areas like nanophotocatalysts ⚛️ and process intensification 🔬. Her research centered around synthesizing novel nano-based photocatalysts for the production of biodiesel 🛢️ using waste cooking oil—a perfect blend of waste valorization ♻️ and environmental sustainability 🌎. Her hands-on approach in lab-scale process design allowed her to experiment with advanced technologies including microwave, ultrasound, and UV irradiation.

Not just confined to theoretical understanding, she actively participated in national conferences, where she presented her findings and interacted with scholars and industry experts. She has been an advocate of green chemistry, aligning her work with global goals of sustainable development and clean energy transitions.

Currently, Dr. Gautam is exploring post-doctoral or professional opportunities where she can contribute her expertise in renewable energy ☀️, catalysis, or environmental engineering, emphasizing her commitment to a sustainable future.


⚗️ Contributions and Research Focus

One of the most noteworthy contributions of Dr. Aparna Gautam is the development of an ionic liquid-based nano-photocatalyst supported on titania ⚛️. This innovative catalyst not only increased the efficiency of biodiesel production 🛢️ but also did so through a method that is both eco-friendly and economically viable. She successfully demonstrated that the synergistic effect of microwave, ultrasound, and UV irradiation 🔬 could accelerate reaction rates and enhance yields, a milestone in process intensification 🔬.

Her work also included comprehensive kinetic and thermodynamic modeling, offering rare insights into the transesterification process at the molecular level. By utilizing waste cooking oil, her research provided a feasible pathway for waste valorization ♻️, converting potential environmental hazards into green fuel 🌿.

Moreover, her process adhered strictly to the principles of green catalysis 🌿, further underscoring her contribution to environmental sustainability 🌎.


🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While her accolades are still accumulating, Dr. Gautam’s work has received commendation at various academic forums and technical symposia. Her posters and oral presentations have often been recognized for both scientific innovation and clarity of communication. Her dedication, precision, and persistence have made her a respected figure among her peers and mentors.

She has also been invited to contribute to collaborative research initiatives focusing on renewable energy ☀️, and she is poised to take on greater roles in global sustainability projects.


🌍 Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Gautam’s work goes beyond laboratory boundaries. Her approach of integrating waste valorization ♻️, nanophotocatalysts ⚛️, and green catalysis 🌿 presents a holistic solution to multiple environmental issues. In a world grappling with rising fuel demands and escalating climate concerns, her innovative model provides a tangible method of achieving carbon neutrality and energy self-reliance.

Furthermore, her emphasis on low-cost, scalable methods makes her research applicable even in resource-constrained regions, amplifying its global relevance.


🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Aparna Gautam is determined to continue her mission of enabling a sustainable world through clean energy technologies. Her aspirations include working with interdisciplinary teams on pilot-scale biodiesel plants 🛢️, scaling up her lab innovations into industrial applications.

She also aims to mentor upcoming researchers, encouraging them to explore process intensification 🔬 and green energy solutions 🌿. With her firm academic foundation, innovative thinking, and commitment to environmental sustainability 🌎, Dr. Gautam is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of renewable energy ☀️.

Citations

A total of 51 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         51
  • h-index           03
  • i10-index        02

Notable Publications 

  1. Title: Novel ionic liquid-based nano-photocatalyst for microwave-ultrasound intensified biodiesel synthesis
    Authors: A. Gautam, N.S. Chawade, S. Kumar, Z. Ahmad, D.S. Patle
    Journal: Energy Conversion and Management
    Year: 2024.


  1. Title: Optimization, kinetics and thermodynamics of ultrasound assisted and ionic liquid catalyzed in-situ biodiesel synthesis from wet microalgae
    Authors: A. Gautam, A. Pandey, K.R. Balinge, V.B. Khajone, P.R. Bhagat, Z. Ahmad, et al.
    Journal: AIP Conference Proceedings
    Year: 2023.


  1. Title: Optimization and Control of Continuous Biodiesel Production Processes: A Review
    Author: A. Gautam
    Journal: Chemical Engineering and Processing – Process Intensification
    Year: 2025.


  1. Title: Process intensification opportunities in the production of microalgal biofuels
    Authors: A. Gautam, S. Kumar, D.S. Patle
    Book Chapter In: Microalgae-Based Systems: Process Integration and Process Intensification
    Year: 2023.


  1. Title: An Ionic Liquid-Based Nano-Photocatalyst and a Method of Preparation Thereof
    Authors: Aparna Gautam, Dipesh S. Patle, Sushil Kumar
    Patent: Indian Patent No. IN533205
    Year: 2023.

Vyomesh Parsana | Chemical Engineering | Best Research Award

Dr. Vyomesh Parsana | Chemical Engineering| Best Research Award

V.V.P. Engineering College, India

Author Profile

🧠 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on October 28, 1977, this distinguished academician hails from India 🇮🇳 and has always shown an exceptional passion for education and scientific inquiry. With a strong foundation built during school years, they excelled in both S.S.C. (82.43%) and H.S.C. (88.67%), reflecting early signs of brilliance. Pursuing a career in Chemical Engineering, they completed their B.E. from DDIT, Nadiad, with a distinction, followed by an outstanding M.Tech from IIT Kharagpur, securing a CGPA of 9.13/10 and achieving the prestigious 1st Rank 🏅. The academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from RK University, with research focused on green solvents and vapor-liquid equilibrium, a subject that reflects the scholar’s dedication to sustainability and cutting-edge research.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

With over two decades of rich academic experience, this scholar has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to teaching and research. Starting as a visiting lecturer in 2004 at V.V.P. Engineering College, Rajkot, the journey progressed through several roles including adhoc lecturer, permanent lecturer, assistant professor, and associate professor, ultimately leading to their current role as Head of the Chemical Engineering Department.

Beyond academia, they gained industrial experience at Tata Chemicals Limited, where they managed a 1000 TPD cement plant and contributed to its expansion to 2500 TPD, showcasing their ability to translate academic knowledge into industrial practice 🏭.

As an educator, the individual has taught a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate subjects, ranging from Thermodynamics to Advanced Reaction Engineering, reflecting a deep and diverse expertise in chemical engineering fundamentals and applications 📘.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

The scholar’s research contributions are both impactful and relevant to modern industrial and environmental needs. Their doctoral work focused on “Studies in Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium of Systems Involving Green Solvents,” a vital area in sustainable chemical process design. The research themes include:

  • Thermodynamic modeling and phase equilibria 🔥🌫️

  • Low-pressure vapor–liquid equilibrium measurement

  • Solution of numerical methods using computational tools

  • Property prediction using group contribution methods

  • Simulation and optimization of chemical processes

They have guided numerous ME and PhD theses, leading students through complex experimental and simulation-based studies. Notably, their PhD scholars are working on topics such as azeotropic separations, ion-specific foam behavior, and rubber compound enhancements using ionic liquids, indicating their engagement with both theoretical and applied research.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Their academic excellence has been recognized from early on, notably securing the top rank at IIT Kharagpur, one of India’s premier institutes 🇮🇳. As a GPCB-certified Schedule-I Environmental Auditor, their consultancy work through V.V.P. Engineering College has provided crucial environmental assessments for industries, emphasizing eco-friendly practices 🌍.

The scholar has earned respect not only as an academician and researcher but also as a mentor and environmental consultant, reflecting a career built on excellence, service, and knowledge dissemination 🎓.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The impact of this scholar extends across multiple dimensions. As a department head, they are shaping curriculum, research directions, and fostering academic partnerships. Their guidance has led to significant student contributions in green solvent systems, which are increasingly critical in addressing global environmental challenges ♻️.

By combining academic rigor with real-world relevance, they bridge the gap between theory and practice, industry and academia, making them an influential figure in both spheres. Their use of computational tools and mathematical modeling has helped standardize processes in process design and simulation, influencing the next generation of chemical engineers 👩‍🔬👨‍🔬.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

With an enduring career already spanning more than 20 years, this scholar’s legacy is etched in the lives of hundreds of students, impactful research projects, and environmental contributions. They have built a strong academic lineage through PhD and ME student mentorship, contributing to the nation’s intellectual and industrial growth.

Looking ahead, the scholar is well-positioned to drive future innovations in green chemistry, sustainable process development, and thermodynamic modeling. As the world shifts toward environmentally conscious solutions, their experience in low-pressure VLE measurements and eco-friendly solvent systems will be more relevant than ever 🔬🌱.

Their visionary leadership, research orientation, and dedication to education ensure they will continue to contribute to the academic community and industry for years to come 🚀.

Citations

A total of 84 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        84
  • h-index           06
  • i10-index        02

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Liquid–liquid extraction of formic acid with 2-methyltetrahydrofuran: Experiments, process modeling, and economics
    Authors: AT Laitinen, VM Parsana, O Jauhiainen, M Huotari, LJP Van Den Broeke

    Journal/Conference: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research 
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Measurement, correlation, and thermodynamic properties of the solubility of bisphenol Z (BPZ) in nine mono and (tetrahydrofuran+ 1-propanol) binary solvents
    Authors: R Ghumara, A Raijada, K Patel, V Parsana, K Joshi, R Bhola, S Bijani
    Journal/Conference: Journal of Chemical & Engineering Data 
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Isobaric Vapour–Liquid Equilibrium Data Measurement for a Binary System of Green Solvent 2-Methyltetrahydrofuran and Acetic acid at 101.3 kPa
    Authors: VM Parsana, SP Parikh

    Journal/Conference: Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering 
    Year: 2019

  • Title: Isobaric vapor–liquid equilibrium data for tetrahydrofuran+ acetic acid and tetrahydrofuran+ trichloroethylene mixtures
    Authors: VM Parsana, S Parikh, K Ziniya, H Dave, P Gadhiya, K Joshi, D Gandhi

    Journal/Conference: Journal of Chemical & Engineering Data

    Year: 2023

  • Title: Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium of System Comprising Green Solvents: A Holistic Review
    Authors: P Khirsariya, VM Parsana

    Journal/Conference: Current Green Chemistry
    Year: 2024