Department of Chemistry,
Savitribai Phule Pune University
(Formerly, University of Pune)
Research & Initiatives
Quantum Dot/ Oxygen Reduction Reaction/ Methanol Oxidation Reaction/ Oxygen Evolution Reaction/ Hydrogen Evolution Reaction/ CO2 Reduction Reaction
Research in Perovskite Quantum Dots: Enhancing Stability and Exploring Electrochemical Properties
At the forefront of material science, our research delves into the fascinating world of organic and inorganic perovskite quantum dots. Our primary focus is on significantly improving their stability, a critical factor for their practical application in various advanced technologies. By leveraging non-aqueous voltammetry, we meticulously study their electrochemical properties and band edge parameters. This innovative approach allows us to gain deeper insights and develop more robust perovskite quantum dots, paving the way for their future use in cutting-edge electronic and optoelectronic devices. Our research goals include :
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Revolutionizing perovskite quantum dots for longer-lasting, more reliable performance in advanced technologies.
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Utilizing non-aqueous voltammetry to uncover and optimize the electrochemical properties and band edge parameters of perovskite quantum dots.
Publications
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Mane, Suyog Sanjay, Archisman Sinha, and Santosh Krishna Haram. "Composition-dependent band structure parameters and band-gap bowing effect in a caesium lead mixed halide system: a cyclic voltammetry investigation." Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics (2024).
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Haram, S. K., Quinn, B. M., & Bard, A. J. (2001). Electrochemistry of CdS nanoparticles: a correlation between optical and electrochemical band gaps. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 123(36), 8860-8861.
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Inamdar, S. N., Ingole, P. P., & Haram, S. K. (2008). Determination of band structure parameters and the quasi‐particle gap of CdSe quantum dots by cyclic voltammetry. ChemPhysChem, 9(17), 2574-2579.
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Haram, S. K., Kshirsagar, A., Gujarathi, Y. D., Ingole, P. P., Nene, O. A., Markad, G. B., & Nanavati, S. P. (2011). Quantum confinement in CdTe quantum dots: investigation through cyclic voltammetry supported by density functional theory (DFT). The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 115(14), 6243-6249.
Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR)
The fuel cell industry has 60% higher energy conversion efficiency than combustion vehicles (21%), making them a promising future solution. But, they have not yet attained much commercial success owing to the sluggish cathodic oxygen reduction reaction. To lower the overpotential and increase the activity of ORR, suitable catalysts are being investigated in our lab. Particularly, we focus on the state-of-the-art catalyst Pt whose improvement is being manipulated by utilizing 2D supports, secondary transition metals etc. Our research goals include :
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Synthesis of 2D supported Pt and Pt-M (M=Fe, Cu, Ni, Co) nanoparticles.
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Investigation of their structural activity using XAS and XPS; along with their correlation to enhanced activity.
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Utilization of microelectrodes to capture intermediates during ORR and to probe the effects of Nafion as a binder for catalysts.
Publications
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Alex, S. B., Vazhayal, L., Waghmaitar, P. P., Urkude, R. R., Chandashive, B. B., Khushalani, D., & Haram, S. K. (2024). Investigation of the Pt/Ti3C2T x Nanocomposite Prepared by γ-Radiolysis: Uncovering the Strong Metal–Support Interaction (SMSI) toward Multifunctional Electrocatalysis. ACS Applied Energy Materials.
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Vazhayal, L., Alex, S. B., & Haram, S. K. (2024). A nanoarchitectured 2D–2D heterointerface of Pt@ Ti 3 C 2 T x–rGO aerogels via in situ γ-radiolysis induced self-assembly: interplay between strain and ligand effects in electrocatalytic interfaces. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 12(40), 27671-27685.
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Alex, Sharon Benny, et al. "Evaluation of binder-free Pt-based catalysts towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) using cavity microelectrode (CME) technique." Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry (2025): 1-13.
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Alex, Sharon Benny, Linsha Vazhayal, and Santosh K. Haram. "Rapid Scan Cyclic Voltammetry (RSCV) investigation of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on gold ultramicroelectrode (UME): a novel methodology to study kinetics of formation of transient intermediates." Discover Electrochemistry 2.1 (2025): 1-8.
Methanol Oxidation Reaction (MOR)
Given the challenges associated with hydrogen, such as its flammability and complex storage requirements, methanol has emerged as a more practical fuel option. This shift in focus has led to the development of Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs), which employ platinum (Pt) as a highly effective catalyst for methanol oxidation. Despite its advantages, Pt catalysts face significant issues with CO poisoning, which impairs their activity and leads to deactivation over time.
To address this, our research group is dedicated to developing innovative catalysts that can reduce CO adsorption and mitigate poisoning effects. Our approach involves designing novel materials that enhance the stability and efficiency of the catalytic process. Additionally, we are investigating the physical chemistry of the electrode-electrolyte interface in DMFCs, specifically examining the behavior and dynamics of short-lived intermediates. By understanding these transient species, we aim to optimize catalyst performance and improve the overall efficiency of fuel cells. Through these efforts, we seek to advance the technology of DMFCs, making them a more viable and reliable energy source.
Publications
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Melvin, A. A., Joshi, V. S., Poudyal, D. C., Khushalani, D., & Haram, S. K. (2015). Electrocatalyst on insulating support?: hollow silica spheres loaded with Pt nanoparticles for methanol oxidation. ACS applied materials & interfaces, 7(12), 6590-6595.
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Poudyal, D. C., Dugani, R., Dash, B. S., Dhavale, M., Satpati, A. K., & Haram, S. K. (2021). γ-ray-assisted synthesis of a Pt–Sn bimetallic composite loaded on graphene–Graphitic carbon nitride hybrid: A cocktail electrocatalyst for the methanol oxidation reaction. ACS omega, 6(21), 13579-13587.
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Joshi, V. S., Poudyal, D. C., Satpati, A. K., Patil, K. R., & Haram, S. K. (2018). Methanol oxidation reaction on Pt based electrocatalysts modified ultramicroelectrode (UME): Novel electrochemical method for monitoring rate of CO adsorption. Electrochimica Acta, 286, 287-295.
Carbondioxide Reduction (CO2RR)
Given the challenges associated with hydrogen, such as its flammability and complex storage requirements, methanol has emerged as a more practical fuel option. This shift in focus has led to the development of Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs), which employ platinum (Pt) as a highly effective catalyst for methanol oxidation. Despite its advantages, Pt catalysts face significant issues with CO poisoning, which impairs their activity and leads to deactivation over time.
To address this, our research group is dedicated to developing innovative catalysts that can reduce CO adsorption and mitigate poisoning effects. Our approach involves designing novel materials that enhance the stability and efficiency of the catalytic process. Additionally, we are investigating the physical chemistry of the electrode-electrolyte interface in DMFCs, specifically examining the behavior and dynamics of short-lived intermediates. By understanding these transient species, we aim to optimize catalyst performance and improve the overall efficiency of fuel cells. Through these efforts, we seek to advance the technology of DMFCs, making them a more viable and reliable energy source.
Publications
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Khatavkar, S., & Haram, S. K. (2022). Investigation of bi/reduced graphene oxide electro-catalyst for CO2 reduction reaction. Materials Today: Proceedings, 68, 128-135.
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Khatavkar, S. N., Ukale, D. U., & Haram, S. K. (2019). Development of self-supported 3D microporous solder alloy electrodes for scalable CO 2 electroreduction to formate. New Journal of Chemistry, 43(17), 6587-6596.
Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER)
The Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) is a critical process in the field of energy conversion, playing a pivotal role in various technologies such as water splitting, fuel cells, and rechargeable metal-air batteries. The efficiency of this reaction directly impacts the overall performance and viability of these energy systems. Recognizing the importance of OER, our research group has dedicated significant effort to developing novel catalysts that can enhance this reaction. We have meticulously engineered and synthesized a series of innovative catalysts designed to improve the kinetics of the OER process.
Publications
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Sonwalkar, H. S., & Haram, S. K. (2017). Kinetic Analysis of the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) Performed with a Cobalt‐Phosphate Electrocatalyst. ChemistrySelect, 2(11), 3323-3328.
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Shateesh, B., Markad, G. B., & Haram, S. K. (2016). Nitrogen doped Graphene Oxides as an efficient electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen evolution Reaction; Composition based Electrodics Investigation. Electrochimica Acta, 200, 53-58.