Research areas

Construction materials, at present, are wide and varied - what with the advent of nano-tech, fibers, and a host of engineered composites.  With so many options to choose from, it becomes necessary to understand the materials in depth. We use a number of different techniques to understand the morphology, mineralogy, and reaction kinetics of such materials so that we may confidently use it in our structures.

A major focus of our research is to develop low-carbon alternatives to the conventionally used Portland cement by tweaking the chemistry of the materials. We also assess the mechanical and durability performance of such construction products that we develop in-house as well the ones that are in use currently. 

India has a large availability of biomass materials - sources of renewable energy. We explore the sustainable reuse of agricultural and industrial byproducts like rice straw ash and other biomass residues from dedicated biomass power plants as active or functional components in cementitious and alternative building materials. Through tailored processing, activation, and characterization, we assess their reactivity, compatibility, and performance potential in diverse binder systems. The broader goal is to create circular material pathways that reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and enable locally produced low-carbon construction materials. Our work also examines the logistical and environmental feasibility of scaling such valorisation approaches in practice. 

We seek to bridge traditional wisdom and modern material science by re-evaluating indigenous construction materials such as lime mortars, earthen plasters, compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEBs), rammed earth etc. for contemporary applications. We focus on improving their mechanical and hygrothermal performance, optimizing formulations with compatible stabilizers, and developing reliable testing and standardisation frameworks. Combining scientific validation with field-based understanding, this work aims to revitalise and scale low-energy, regionally grounded building practices, offering sustainable and culturally resonant alternatives for modern construction.