Our lab, The Microfluidics and Nanomaterials lab,
has three thrust areas of research:

1) Microfluidics as a tool for biological studies; 2) Polymer nanocomposites for coating applications; and
3) Development of bio-inspired food packaging materials

In the area of Microfluidics, we work on developing technologies for generation of biomaterials such as microparticles, microcapsules, and microfibers. We then use these biomaterials for diverse applications ranging from water purification to biofilm eradication and tumor modelling.  

In the area of Coatings, our interest lies in developing and testing water-based antibacterial coatings containing metallic nanofillers and halogen complexes as antimicrobial elements. Our research in this area contributes towards environmental sustainability owing to the solvent free technology in these coatings. 

A further area of interest is Food packaging, where we have been developing nanocomposite films comprising of, metallic nanoparticles and essential oil nanoemulsions impregnated into biopolymers, for use as active food packaging materials. This work bears the potential to deliver ideal bio-based antimicrobial food packaging, which could be a substitute in a more efficient and sustainable manner for plastic.