Research Interests
My research focuses on the solution processing of a wide range of layered and non-layered 2D materials and their applications in supercapacitors, batteries, photodetectors, polymer composites, liquid crystal displays etc. My doctoral thesis addresses the challenges associated with solution processing, explicitly focusing on the liquid-phase exfoliation of various 2D materials such as hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), boron carbide (B4C), transition metal dichalcogenides, transition metal oxides, antimony, antimony sulfide and many others.
A crucial part of my work involves determining the Hansen solubility parameter of 2D materials, which is critical in obtaining stable dispersions/inks for various applications. One of my significant contributions is establishing and optimizing an accelerated centrifuge system in our lab to analyze the stability of 2D dispersions both qualitatively and quantitatively. This research will be helpful in analyzing the shelf life of paints, cosmetics and beverages. I have also developed a method for obtaining aqueous dispersions of 2D materials without using any surfactants or additives, addressing a major challenge in the field. Another highlight of my work is investigating the role of the solute-solvent interface in the liquid-phase exfoliation of 2D materials, providing valuable insights into the process.
Considering the excellent properties of 2D materials, along with the collaborators, we have prepared nano-soft composites using liquid crystals for effective IR regulation. Additionally, we have employed solution-processed h-BN thin film as an alignment layer for liquid crystal devices, aiming to replace the traditional method of using a polyimide layer followed by mechanical rubbing, to encounter its drawbacks.
My future research interests include 2D materials-based printed, wearable, and flexible electronics, energy storage devices and optoelectronics. Through my work, I aim to contribute to the development of innovative nanomaterial-based technologies.
Publications
Just Published !!
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G. R. Pisharody, P. Sahoo, D. S. S. Rao, H. S. S. R. Matte, and S. K. Prasad, “Polymer network liquid crystal incorporating a 2D material: Influence of lateral size and concentration of h-BN nanoflakes,” Journal of Molecular Liquids, 2025, 418, 126735.
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P. Sahoo, K. Lobo, V. K. Gangaiah, P. Sumbe, M. A. More, D. J. Late, K. Vankayala, and H. S. S. R. Matte, “Insights into the Solution Processing of Non-van der Waals Boron Carbide,” Chemistry-A European Journal, 2025, 31, 3, e202403328.
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G. R. Pisharody, P. Sahoo, A. K. Mishra, D. S. S. Rao, H. S. S. R. Matte and S. K. Prasad, “A generic approach for aligning liquid crystals using solution-processed 2D materials on ITO-free surfaces,” Journal of Materials Chemistry C, 2024, 12, 10707-10717.​
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Patent Granted !!
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S. K. Prasad, H. S. S. R. Matte, D. S. S. Rao, G. R. Pisharody, P. Sahoo, “A method for fabrication of liquid crystal device with unidirectional alignment of liquid crystals,” Indian Patent granted (500901).