Sudeep N Punnathanam

Professor

Phone: 080 2293 3109
Email: sudeep at iisc.ac.in

Research Group

Education

Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, Purdue University (2003)

M.E., Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science (1999)

B.E., Chemical Engineering, University of Roorkee (1997)

Courses

CH 206 Seminar Course

CH 204 Thermodynamics

CH 247 Introduction to Molecular Simulations

Research

 

The research in our group is directed towards understanding the relationship between macroscopic thermodynamic behavior and microscopic interactions using the principles of statistical mechanics. The physical insights gained from such studies can help us in developing molecular theories to determine thermodynamic properties. They also aid in the development of molecular models to predict bulk behavior using molecular simulations. Our current focus is on understanding solid-fluid equilibrium in nanoparticle suspensions,

thermodynamic behavior of gas-hydrate systems, thermodynamics of adsorption in microporous materials such as zeolites and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and molecular modelling of electric double layer super capacitors. The primary tools used in our research include molecular simulations (both Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics) and density functional theories.

Research Group

Research Themes

Colloids and Interface Science

A reduction in the length scale of reactors and attempts to create microstructured systems with novel and desired properties have brought in the interplay of colloidal and interfacial interactions to prominence over a broad range of length scales.

Energy Science and Environment Research

The standard of living across the nations is strongly correlated with per capita energy production. Given the limited and finite nature of fossil fuels and the problems associated with the traditional renewable resource such as hydel power, it is imperative to develop technologies to harness and store energy from renewable sources such as solar energy, wind energy, tidal energy,

Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics and Molecular Simulations

We study a wide variety of phenomenon using classical molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations and statistical thermodyamics, which require a knowledge of the forces between the various molecules. This approach provides a molecular understanding of adsorption and separations processes, catalysis, energy storage for transportation, novel drug synthesis protocols, nanoparticle engineering, biomembrane function and transport in complex fluids.

Nanotechnology

The interdisciplinary field of nanotechnology in the department spans from simulations and molecular dynamics to the engineering of nanomaterials, focusing on applications like semiconductor electronics, energy solutions, and biological diagnostics, emphasizing high-throughput synthesis and self-assembly of nanoscale architectures.

Awards & Honors

  • N. R. Kuloor Memorial Medal, IISc, 1999
  • Thomason Certificate, University of Roorkee, 1997

Select Publications