Dr. Bharatkumar Dholakiya | Composite Materials Science | FRP Sustainable Construction Excellence Award
Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology - India
Professional Profiles:
Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Bharatkumar Z. Dholakiya embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in chemistry, earning his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees from Sardar Patel University, Gujarat, India. His academic excellence was reflected in receiving gold medals for all three degrees, highlighting his exceptional dedication and proficiency in the field of chemistry.
Professional Endeavors
With over two decades of teaching experience and two years in the industrial sector, Prof. Dholakiya has honed his expertise in various domains of chemistry. He has served as a distinguished professor and head of the Department of Chemistry at Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), Surat, Gujarat, India, contributing significantly to both academia and industry. His industrial stint as a Production Executive at Torrent Gujarat Biotech Ltd. enriched his practical understanding of chemical processes, complementing his academic insights.
Contributions and Research Focus on Composite Materials Science
Prof. Dholakiya's research journey spans diverse areas such as acid and alkali catalyzed biodiesel manufacturing, reactor designing for continuous processes, and synthesis of novel compounds with therapeutic potential. His pioneering work in developing eco-friendly materials, such as polyurethane composites from renewable sources like cardanol and post-consumer PET, showcases his commitment to sustainable chemistry and green technology.
Accolades and Recognition
Prof. Dholakiya's contributions to the field of chemistry have earned him numerous accolades and recognitions. He is a recognized Ph.D. guide for Chemistry at SVNIT, Surat, and Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, and a respected post-graduate teacher for Industrial Chemistry at Sardar Patel University. His affiliations with esteemed organizations like The Royal Society of Chemistry and the Indian Chemical Society underscore his stature as a distinguished chemist.
Impact and Influence
As an educator, Prof. Dholakiya has mentored a multitude of Ph.D. and M.Sc. students, guiding them towards impactful research and instilling in them a passion for scientific inquiry. His expertise extends beyond academia, as evidenced by his role as a Schedule – I Environmental Auditor for the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, reflecting his commitment to environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Prof. Dholakiya's legacy is characterized by his multifaceted contributions to the realms of education, research, and industry. His innovative research endeavors and dedication to sustainability are poised to leave a lasting impact on the field of chemistry. Moving forward, he continues to inspire future generations of chemists and researchers, fostering a culture of excellence and environmental responsibility in the pursuit of scientific advancement.