Dr. Vishnuvarthanan M: Associate Professor at Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, India
Title/Designation: Dr.
Name: Vishnuvarthanan M
Current Role/Designation: Associate Professor
Organization/Institution: Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education
Country: India
Subject Track: Materials Science
Award Categories: Best Researcher Award
Dr. M. Vishnuvarthanan is a seasoned academician and researcher in the domain of Mechanical Engineering, specializing in the development of innovative materials and technologies. He currently holds a position at the Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education in Tamil Nadu, where he has been actively contributing to the academic and research community. Dr. Vishnuvarthanan has a strong background in polymer science, nanocomposites, bio-based materials, and sustainable manufacturing technologies. Over the years, he has built a reputation for his interdisciplinary work, bridging engineering with material sciences, food packaging, and environmental sustainability. His expertise includes additive manufacturing, bio-nanocomposites, and auxetic mechanical metamaterials, areas in which he has authored numerous publications and led research projects.
Online Profiles
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan maintains a prominent online presence through multiple academic platforms, enabling him to stay connected with global researchers, students, and institutions. His Google Scholar profile provides access to his vast body of work, including 24 SCI-indexed research papers and multiple book chapters. Through ResearchGate, Dr. Vishnuvarthanan engages with the global scientific community, sharing updates on his ongoing projects and collaborating with peers. His ORCID profile also tracks his publications, contributing to his recognition as a thought leader in polymer engineering and nanotechnology. These online profiles offer insights into his research impact, with over 500 citations, making him a highly regarded figure in his field.
Education
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Anna University, Chennai, in September 2018. His doctoral research focused on the development of nanocomposite coatings for surface-modified polypropylene, primarily targeting food packaging applications. This research laid the foundation for his subsequent work in sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Before his Ph.D., he completed an M.Tech in Plastics Technology in 2010, also from Anna University, which sharpened his skills in polymer processing, composite materials, and product design. His undergraduate degree, a B.E. in Production Engineering (2007), provided him with a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, setting the stage for his specialization in advanced materials and manufacturing.
Research Focus
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan’s research interests are diverse, yet they all center around the development and application of advanced materials for sustainable technologies. His primary focus includes auxetic mechanical metamaterials, which exhibit unusual mechanical properties such as negative Poisson’s ratio and can be used in applications ranging from protective gear to energy absorption systems. He is also deeply invested in polymer nanocomposites and bio-polymers, exploring their potential in creating high-performance, biodegradable packaging solutions for the food industry. His recent work involves additive manufacturing and surface modification of bio-based materials, aiming to enhance product durability, functionality, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, Dr. Vishnuvarthanan works on bio-adhesives, natural fibers, and antimicrobial materials, striving to create innovative solutions for real-world problems.
Experience
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan has accumulated extensive teaching and research experience. He currently holds the position of Associate Professor at the Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, where he has been actively involved in academic teaching and research since 2024. Prior to this, he served as a Teaching Fellow at the prestigious College of Engineering, Guindy, Anna University, from 2018 to 2022, where he not only taught but also mentored graduate and doctoral students. Additionally, he worked as a Project Scientist at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi from 2022 to 2024, where he led projects related to materials science and sustainable engineering practices. Dr. Vishnuvarthanan’s work has also taken him to international platforms, having been a Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar at Amity University, Dubai, and a Guest Faculty at the Indian Institute of Packaging, Chennai.
Research Timeline & Activities
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan’s research career began in 2010, focusing on polymer science and materials engineering. His initial work in the field of polymer nanocomposites and plastics technology set the stage for his later research on biodegradable materials and nanotechnology. After completing his Ph.D., he engaged in postdoctoral research at IIT Delhi, focusing on food packaging applications and the development of antimicrobial packaging materials. In parallel to his academic research, he has been a key participant in funded projects aimed at promoting sustainable development through materials innovation. As part of his professional activities, he has presented research at over 40 international conferences and contributed to over 10 edited volumes on sustainable materials, nanocomposites, and polymers. He also plays an active role in curriculum development and teaching innovation in the areas of advanced materials science and engineering.
Awards & Honors
Throughout his career, Dr. Vishnuvarthanan has received multiple accolades recognizing his research excellence and contributions to the field. In 2019, he was honored with the Young Researcher Award, and in 2020, he was recognized with the Best Research Paper Award at the International Conference on Bio-Nanotechnology. He also received the Best 3M Thesis Presentation Award in 2018 at the International Conference on Nano-Science and Engineering Applications. Dr. Vishnuvarthanan’s work has been widely disseminated, with research articles receiving recognition for high citation rates. His Best Guide for the Best Project Award further highlights his exceptional mentorship and commitment to fostering innovation among students.
Top Noted Publication
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan’s top publication includes a highly cited paper in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules (2025), which addresses the development of cellulose/chitosan blend films for food packaging applications. This paper highlights his expertise in the sustainable modification of natural polymers for real-world uses, specifically targeting food preservation through innovative, biodegradable packaging solutions. Another notable publication is his recent work on nanocomposite coatings for polypropylene, which has direct implications in the packaging industry, particularly for the development of food-grade materials with enhanced mechanical and antimicrobial properties.
3D, 4D, and 5D Printing Technology Towards Photoelectric Devices
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Year: 2025
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Publication Type: Book Chapter
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Summary: This chapter delves into the advancements in 3D, 4D, and 5D printing technologies and their potential in the fabrication of photoelectric devices. The focus is on how these printing techniques can lead to the creation of complex, multi-functional devices that can be used in fields like energy harvesting, solar cells, and smart sensors. The chapter also explores the integration of materials like nanocomposites and metamaterials to enhance the performance of these photoelectric devices.
Paper and Paperboard from Agricultural Waste—A Sustainable Waste Management Approach
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Year: 2025
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Publication Type: Book Chapter
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Summary: This chapter highlights the growing importance of agricultural waste as a resource for sustainable paper and paperboard production. Dr. Vishnuvarthanan explores how agricultural by-products like rice husk, wheat straw, and sugarcane bagasse can be converted into high-quality paper and paperboard, contributing to a circular economy. The environmental benefits of reducing waste and conserving natural resources are key themes discussed in the context of the packaging industry.
Particleboard from Rice Husk
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Year: 2025
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Publication Type: Book Chapter
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Summary: This chapter focuses on the use of rice husk as a viable material for producing particleboard, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood-based products. It discusses various techniques for processing rice husk into durable, high-strength particleboard suitable for use in construction, furniture, and packaging. The chapter also highlights the sustainability aspect of utilizing agricultural waste, reducing environmental footprint, and promoting waste-to-value technologies.
Revolutionizing Healthcare Through Nanomaterials in Medicine
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Year: 2025
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Publication Type: Book Chapter
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Summary: This chapter covers the revolutionary potential of nanomaterials in the medical field. It emphasizes how the integration of nano-engineered materials is transforming medical diagnostics, treatment, and drug delivery systems. Dr. Vishnuvarthanan elaborates on the applications of nanocomposites, nano-robots, and biomaterials in enhancing biocompatibility, targeting disease cells, and improving patient outcomes, thereby opening new frontiers in personalized medicine and regenerative therapies.
Sulfite Pulping: Extraction
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Year: 2025
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Publication Type: Book Chapter
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Summary: This chapter explores the sulfite pulping process, a method used for extracting cellulose fibers from wood and other plant materials. The chapter outlines the chemical mechanisms, technological advancements, and applications of sulfite pulping in the production of high-quality pulp for paper and packaging industries. It also discusses the environmental and economic challenges associated with this process, along with sustainable alternatives.
Development and Characterization of ZnO-, CuO-, and CuO–ZnO-incorporated Porous Sodium Alginate–Polyvinyl Alcohol–Gelatin Hybrid Bio-nanocomposite Scaffolds for Wound Healing Applications
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Year: 2025
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Publication Type: Journal Article
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Journal: Polymer Bulletin
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Summary: In this article, Dr. Vishnuvarthanan collaborates with other researchers to develop hybrid bio-nanocomposite scaffolds for wound healing. The study investigates the incorporation of ZnO, CuO, and CuO-ZnO nanomaterials into sodium alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, and gelatin matrices to improve the scaffold’s properties. These scaffolds exhibit excellent antimicrobial, biocompatible, and mechanical properties, making them ideal for wound care, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Strength for the Best Researcher Award
1. Innovative Contributions to Sustainable Materials Science
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan has been a trailblazer in developing sustainable materials, particularly through his work on biodegradable polymers and nanocomposites. His research on enhancing the mechanical properties of biodegradable packaging materials has major implications for reducing environmental waste. His innovative approach to utilizing agricultural waste for paperboard production exemplifies his commitment to sustainable development.
2. Interdisciplinary Research in Materials Engineering and Nanotechnology
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan stands out for his ability to bridge various disciplines. His research in auxetic mechanical metamaterials—materials with unusual properties like negative Poisson’s ratio—has potential applications in protective gear, medical devices, and energy absorption systems. His expertise in nanotechnology and bio-nanocomposites further positions him as an expert in enhancing material performance while ensuring sustainability.
3. High-Impact Publications and Academic Contributions
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan’s publication record is a testament to his scholarly impact. With over 24 SCI-indexed papers, numerous book chapters, and citations exceeding 500, his research is widely recognized in the academic community. His contributions to cutting-edge topics such as nanocomposite coatings for food packaging and the use of 3D printing in photoelectric devices make him a thought leader in his field.
4. Leadership in Research and Education
As an Associate Professor at Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Dr. Vishnuvarthanan has significantly contributed to shaping the future of materials science education. He actively mentors students at both the graduate and doctoral levels, fostering the next generation of researchers. His work in curriculum development and teaching innovative methodologies in advanced materials science has had a lasting impact on the academic community.
5. Global Collaboration and Recognition
Dr. Vishnuvarthanan has worked with prominent research institutions worldwide, including a postdoctoral role at IIT Delhi and collaborations with Amity University, Dubai. His international exposure has enriched his research perspective, allowing him to contribute to global advancements in material science and sustainability. His research has been presented at over 40 international conferences, solidifying his recognition as a global leader in the field of sustainable materials engineering.