Polymer Engineering and Colloid Science Lab (IIT Madras)

PECS Lab, part of the Chemical Engineering Department at IIT Madras, is headed by a team of professors Abhijit P. Deshpande, Basavaraj M Gurappa, Ethayaraja Mani, Khushboo Suman, Sumesh P Thampi and Susy Varughese. The lab specializes in the research and development of soft matter, focusing on synthesis, characterization, and comprehensive analysis of its behavior. PECS Lab's research portfolio encompasses a broad range of topics, including rheology in particle and polymer networks, biomechanics of biopolymers and gels, conductive polymers, and biosensors. The lab also investigates nanoparticle synthesis, self-assembly in colloids, flow mechanics, patterns and cracks in drying drops, and the thermodynamics of fuels and emulsions. Furthermore, PECS explores Pickering emulsions, surface wettability, anisotropic colloids, and liquid-liquid phase separation. Alongside these experimental endeavors, the lab utilizes mathematical modeling and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations to gain insights into underlying molecular mechanisms. This blend of experimental and computational approaches positions PECS Lab to offer innovative solutions and insights into a wide range of applications.