Achievements & Awards

Superlattice-Nano-Layer (SNL) in Al-Gd-Zr Alloys

Discovered a previously unreported Superlattice Nano-Layer (SNL) in Al-Gd-Zr eutectic alloys, formed through segregation-assisted atomic-scale interface engineering at the α-Al/Al3Gd heterophase interface. The coherent Al3(Zr,Gd) SNL acts as a stress-buffering interfacial layer that significantly enhances load transfer between the brittle Al3Gd fibres and the ductile α-Al matrix, thereby suppressing crack initiation and premature fibre fracture during deformation. Together with coherent core–shell Al3(Zr,Gd) nanoparticles in the α-Al matrix, this interface engineering strategy achieved an exceptional synergy of strength and ductility, resulting in an approximately 400% increase in tensile ductility while maintaining a tensile strength of 290 MPa at room temperature and 130 MPa at 250°C, together with excellent microstructural thermal stability after prolonged exposure at 400°C. This work establishes a new atomic-scale alloy design strategy for developing high-performance, heat-resistant, lightweight aluminium alloys 

The research was published in Nature Communications (2026) and received international recognition through coverage by multiple scientific news outlets, as follows:

IISc News  Phys.Org EurekAlert!  ETV Bharat  Neo Science Hub  Inovação Tecnológica

Prime Minister's Research Fellowship (PMRF), Ministry of Education, GoI

Recipient of the highly competitive Prime Minister's Research Fellowship, one of India's most prestigious doctoral fellowships, granted to a select group of outstanding researchers across all disciplines. (2021-2024)