SRMIST stands up for nanotechnology

S Vishnu Sharmaa, INN/Chennai, @Svs037 

Nanotechnology has become a buzzword for SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST). The prestigious institute of higher learning has established Nanotechnology Research Centre at a cost of Rs 3.5 crore.

The facility was inaugurated by Professor Dr. M. Kamruddin, associate director, ANG division, IGCAR, Kalpakkam. The centre comprises advanced characterization facilities like Laser Flash Thermal conductivity, Seebeck Coefficient Measurement System, Cryogenic Probe Station and Semiconductor Parameter Analyzer. 

Kamruddin said these facilities are dream instruments. Private universities and organizations should chip in more for research and development. It is good that SRMIST is working towards bringing such world class facilities under one roof. These facilities are open to everyone from all over the world where researchers can send in their samples do their work, he said. 

Dr C. Muthamizhchelvan, director (Engineering and Technology), SRMIST said research is not confined to one department, therefore, these facilities are open to all. Researchers can send their samples through online booking and gain access to the latest equipment through their website ‘nrc.srmonline.net‘.

The other existing facilities at SRMIST include X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (HR-TEM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope( FESEM), Vibrating-Sample Magnetometer (VSM) , X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD), Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM) High Resolution Mass Spectrometry ( HRMS) and many more along with a supercomputer typically used for scientific and engineering applications.

A workshop on ‘advanced characterization of material and devices’ was held as part of the event. M. Navaneethan, convener and HOD, department of Nanotechnology, SRMIST were among those present.