Overview

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Sol-gel processing is one of the most versatile techniques for the preparation of wide range of glass and ceramic materials in different forms. The sol-gel activity at CGCRI, Kolkata was initiated in the year 1981. Since then different activities related to the development of plasma grade oxide powders, nanoparticles, ceramic fibres, ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), thin films having antirecflective (AR), antiglare, laser damage resistant, electrochromic, low emissivity and photocatalytic properties and high purity silica glass have been undertaken. Based on the activities in this area, a high level international collaboration has also been established with Israel, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Slovenia. The sol-gel AR coated ophthalmic glass lenses have been commercialized by Indian Company.

Presently, the division is actively involved in the development of zeolite powders and membranes for gas separation, hydrophillic / self cleaning coating, solid state dye laser, planar optical waveguide for sensor application and energy saving low emissivity coating. For the last 10 years, the laboratory has published more than 80 papers in SCI journals.

The research team of the division comprise: Five (5) Scientists, Six (6) Research Fellows and Three (03) support staffs.