Professor – Textile Chemistry at Institute of Chemical Technology, India
Dr. Ashok Ramchandra Athalye is a distinguished professor in the Department of Fibres & Textile Processing Technology at the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai. With an expansive professional journey rooted in both academic and industrial excellence, he has consistently demonstrated leadership in advancing sustainable and innovative textile processing methods. Over the years, his passion for research, education, and development in textile chemistry has led to influential contributions in industrial innovation, sustainable practices, and scientific literature, making him a valuable contributor to both national and international textile science communities.
Profile
ORCID
Education Background 📚
Dr. Athalye’s educational qualifications form the foundation of his textile science expertise. He earned his Ph.D. (Tech.) in 1993 from the Institute of Chemical Technology (formerly UDCT), Mumbai, with a thesis on “Radiation-induced Polymer Modifications” under the guidance of Prof. S.R. Shukla. He also holds an M.Sc. (Tech.) and a B.Sc. (Tech.) in Textile Chemistry from the same institute, completed in 1990 and 1988, respectively. This robust academic training has equipped him with deep theoretical and applied knowledge in textile processing.
Professional Experience 🏢
With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Athalye has seamlessly bridged academia and industry. He currently serves as Professor of Textile Chemistry and Dean of Student and Alumni Affairs at ICT Mumbai. His industrial roles include Vice President – Technical at Rossari Biotech Ltd., GM Technical Service at Atul Ltd., and other leadership positions at Croda, Jaysynth Dyechem, and Hindustan Ciba Geigy. This diverse experience across leading chemical and textile firms has enriched his approach to applied research, product development, and technical service in textile coloration and finishing.
Research Interests 🔬🌿
Dr. Athalye’s research is deeply focused on sustainable textile processing. His interests include reducing water and carbon footprints in wet processing, enzyme immobilization, digital coloration, effect finishing, microencapsulation for sensory textiles, and process optimization for technical textiles. He also works on novel surface modification techniques for Meditech and hygiene applications. His ongoing projects span innovative themes such as low-temperature bleaching, antimicrobial finishing for carpets, green product development from recycled PET, and keratin-based biomedical applications, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.
Awards and Honors 🏆
Dr. Athalye’s work has earned him significant recognition. He was conferred the Fellowship of the Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC), UK in 2013, a prestigious international acknowledgment of excellence in coloration. In 2021, he was also made a Fellow of the Indian Chemical Society, further affirming his influence in the Indian chemical and textile scientific community.
Select Publications 📄
Dr. Athalye has authored over 150 research papers, including peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. Below are seven notable publications:
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Title: Biodegradability and Sustainability in Textile Finishing—Current Challenges and Future Perspectives
Authors: Shriyasha Meghanath Tari, Ashok Ramchandra Athalye
Publication: Book Chapter (Springer)
Year: 2025
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Title: D-phase Emulsification of Neem Oil and its Application on Cotton and Silk using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Harshal Patil, Ashok Athalye
Publication: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society
Year: 2025
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Title: Cationic Surfactants in Textile Processing
Authors: Manjiri Paranjape, Prof. Ashok Athalye
Publication: Indian Journal of Fibre and Textile Engineering
Year: 2025
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Title: Sustainable discharge printing of marigold‐dyed cotton with eucalyptus wood ash extract and its optimisation by response surface methodology
Authors: Harshal Patil, Devansh Chaudhari, Ashok Athalye
Publication: Coloration Technology
Year: 2025
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Title: Sustainable scouring of cotton using extracts from wood ash and soapnut and its optimisation by response surface methodology
Authors: Harshal Patil, Ashok Athalye
Publication: Coloration Technology
Year: 2025
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Title: Life Cycle Assessment and Carbon Impact Assessment
Authors: Akshay Vade, Ashok Athalye, Suman Mundkur
Publication: Universal Journal of Green Chemistry
Year: 2025
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Title: Valorisation of Napier grass through fibre extraction and coloration by natural dye from Rubia tinctorum
Authors: Harshal Patil, Suraj Yadav, Ashok Athalye
Publication: Coloration Technology
Year: 2024
Conclusion & Recommendation 📝🌟
Dr. Ashok R. Athalye exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through his holistic integration of academic insight, industrial practice, and innovative problem-solving. His commitment to sustainability, vast publication record, international recognition, and dynamic leadership make him a compelling candidate for a prestigious accolade such as the Best Researcher Award. With decades of impactful contributions to textile science and a clear vision for future innovations, Dr. Athalye continues to inspire both peers and students alike in the pursuit of excellence and responsible innovation in textile technology.