The area is one of the important domains of Analytical Sciences Division and its primary activities comprise detailed molecular level characterization of organic compounds including hydrocarbons. We provide qualitative as well as quantitative informations about such compounds through different analytical techniques available at the area. Besides, the area provides continuous analytical support to the projects of the institute with its GC, HPLC, GC-MS and HRMS systems. The prominent research activities are:
- Adulteration monitoring for automotive gasoline and diesel fuels,
- Remediation of petroleum refinery wastewater with carbon materials derived from lignocellulosic biomass,
- Bioremediation of petroleum contaminated soil and sludge with an emphasis on the degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Most of the analytical method development involves target analyte detection at trace levels, reaction monitoring, correlating molecular level informations with physico-chemical properties and vehicular exhaust emission monitoring for environmental pollutants. Important standard methods are adopted for petroleum testing and include detailed hydrocarbon analysis for gasoline, carbon number distribution of petroleum fuels, aromatic hydrocarbon types in middle distillates and vacuum gas-oils.
This area serves the entire institute, client industries and students with its available resources in the best possible way. It is also engaged in the training of students, skill India program and demonstration to the visiting students, faculties and other distinguished personnel.
