Devang V Khakhar

Biography

B.Tech., Chemical Engineering, I.I.T. Delhi, 1981 Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, 1986

Research Interest

Granular Solids : The mixing of granular solids is of considerable importance for a large number of industrial applications (mixing of pharmaceuticals, cement manufacture, etc.) yet it is poorly understood from a fundamental viewpoint. One of the complicating factors is simultaneous segregation due to differences in particle characteristics. Our work has focused on simple prototype mixers (rotating cylinders) to gain an insight into the fundamental physics for the case of dry granular materials. We are currently applying some of the basics to the understanding of calcination and clinker formation in rotary kilns. Rodlike polymers : Rodlike polymers can be spun into ultra high strength fibres (e.g. Kevlar) which find application in the manufacture of cables, tyre cord, reinforcement for composites, bullet-proof fabrics, etc. Due to their anisotropic shape such polymers are easily oriented by shear fields. We are investigating the effect of such orienting fields applied during polymerization, by means of experiment, theory and Brownian dynamics simulations. Polyurethane foams : Polyurethane foams are made by the polymerization of polyols with di-isocyanates with simultaneous gas generation. Applications are widespread and include thermal isulation and cushioning. The aim of our studies is to a obtain an understanding of the effect of formulation and processing conditions on the dynamics of formation, structure and final properties of free rise and moulded foams.