Research Scholars' Day 6.0 Celebrates Research and Innovation at IIT Palakkad
IIT Palakkad's sixth edition of Research Scholars' Day (RSD) occurred on March 23, 2024, at the Saraswati block. The event provided a platform for scholars and researchers to exchange knowledge and ideas, aiming to unite groundbreaking interventions in science and technology. Prof. Guruswamy Kumaraswamy, from the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, delivered a compelling keynote address on the pervasive nature of plastics in our modern world. He advocated for sustainable plastic management via biodegradable alternatives and the 4R approach: refuse, reuse, redesign, and recycle. Prof. Kumaraswamy discussed innovative methods like upcycling waste polyethylene into 3D printing filament and shed light on micro and nanoplastics. He stressed the importance of responsible usage of plastic, noting the need to communicate to younger generations that plastics are not inherently bad, but rather the importance of using them responsibly.
Dr. Joy Vazhayil, Former Chief Secretary of Kerala, delivered an enlightening talk on the Ethical Dilemmas of Technology in the 21st Century. He commenced by discussing the Diamond-Water Paradox, illustrating how water, vital for human survival, is undervalued compared to diamonds, which hold little practical importance. Dr. Vazhayil emphasized the concept of justice inherent in human nature and underscored the importance of ethical considerations based on virtue.
Dr. Abhilash PM, an alumnus of IIT Palakkad who works as a Research Associate at the Centre for Precision Manufacturing, Department of Design, Manufacturing, and Engineering Management at the University of Strathclyde, expounded on Digital Twin-Driven Smart Manufacturing.
The event featured ten more research talks by research scholars and poster presentations that facilitated knowledge transfer and insightful discussions.
