PhD Projects
During my entire Ph.D. tenure, I worked on different research objectives
Biogeochemical Cycling of Platinum group of Elements (PGEs)
Our qualitative and quantitative assessment indicates that mining activities contribute almost 60–80% of the total anthropogenic flow on Earth, and crustal subduction and production dominate the total global PGE cycle.
New Method Development for PGE measurement using ICP-MS/MS
I have developed a reliable and simple method for highly precise measurement of PGE & Re concentration and Osmium isotope data of geological and environmental samples using the collision/reaction cell technology of ICP-MS/MS.
Radiogenic isotopes reveal the process that controls the transport of anthropogenic particles to the Higher Himalayas
Using time-series lead and neodymium isotope records of aerosols collected at a high-altitude site in the Central Himalaya we demonstrate that transport of anthropogenic particles to the region is controlled by boundary layer height dynamics in the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP). During winter, the thinned boundary layer traps up to 25% more anthropogenic particles in the IGP, thereby increasing pollution in the IGP. This situation reverses when the boundary layer thickens in non-winter months resulting in efficient dust dispersion. Consequently, peak glacial melting season in the Himalaya coincides with increased anthropogenic inputs, creating a positive feedback that enhances melting.
The magnitude of anthropogenic PGEs in Indian road dust: Emerging Environmental Contaminant
Palladium occurred at the highest levels in Indian road-dusts, followed by Pt and Rh. The results support existing data regarding PGE accumulation trends in urban and roadside environments, due to their use as catalysts in automotive catalytic converters. This study also confirms a shift toward the heavier use of Pd as the catalyst of choice in recent years, as reflected in the higher concentrations measured for this metal relative to Pt and Rh. The results highlight a need to continue monitoring the accumulation of PGE, most notably Pd, in urban environments due to their higher solubility compared to other PGEs.