SANDHYA RAO DR

Sandhya Rao’s chief areas of research expertise include processing, characterization and testing of polymers and composites used for Aerospace. Physical, chemical and thermal analysis of polymeric materials is performed using sophisticated instruments.

Particular focus area is microwave assisted processing of Aerospace polymer composites that has led to significant savings in process time and energy vis a vis the conventional oven cure processes. Another key area of research is development of smart shape memory polymers for structural applications which has potential for morphing aircraft wings and smart, recyclable tooling development. Shape memory polymer formulations with varied transition temperatures have been successfully realized by physical and chemical mixing. These research areas presently involve extensive experimentation for better understanding of materials and processes.

Research Interests

Microwave-material interactions, shape memory & self-healing polymers, Composites recycling, Ceramic tooling