Chitrakala Ramasamy

Engaged in research endeavors focused on diverse smart polymer composite surfaces with the goal of attaining customizable surface properties in response to a stimulus. successfully demonstrated shape-memory and self-healing characteristics observed in bulk to the surface by incorporating micro/nano-scale surface patterns.

Contributed to a Ministry of Education (MOE) funded project centered on structured polymeric surfaces. Applied surface patterning tools and conducted comprehensive characterization of surface properties, with a specific focus on advancing the development of superhydrophilic surfaces.

Served as a Research Associate on a PUB/EWI funded project aimed at minimizing membrane biofouling and enhancing reverse osmosis and membrane bioreactor efficiency through novel additive compounds. Optimized dosage regimens of candidate compounds via lab-scale experiments, assessing biofilm growth, testing, and analysis with single and mixed microbial species. Successfully pilot-tested the chosen compound, incorporating the optimized dosage regimen, on PUB's operational reverse osmosis and membrane bioreactor setups.

Led research efforts on carbon nanotube based polymer composites, including the identification of candidate materials, experimental design, and result analysis. Executed experiments independently and collaborated with a larger research team to assess alternative methods and materials.