IISER Bhopal Researchers Develop Substance for Neutralizing Chemical Warfare Agents

Researchers at IISER, Bhopal have developed an advanced photocatalyst capable of efficiently harnessing a broad spectrum of solar energy and light, accelerating chemical processes in both laboratory and industries. Check details here 

The team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, has developed a efficient photocatalyst. This innovative material demonstrates the ability to absorb an extensive spectrum of solar energy and light. Its unique properties enable the acceleration of chemical processes within laboratory environments as well as industrial settings.

The new material harnesses renewable energy sources for detoxifying harmful substances such as chemical warfare agents comprising of mustard gas simulants like ‘2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide’ (CEES), and nerve agents, which are highly poisonous chemicals that affect a person’s nervous system. 

Prof. Abhijit Patra from the Department of Chemistry at IISER Bhopal said, “The current investigation unveils a novel direction in the development of advanced light-harvesting porous organic polymer nanocomposite materials, showing potential applications in designing smart protective coatings against chemical warfare agents under natural sunlight conditions.”

The newly developed material called ‘UC-POP-Au’ absorbs the entire spectrum of light, making it a more potent catalyst during chemical processes. Unlike its counterparts, which primarily absorb UV or high-energy segments of light, 'UC-POP-Au' stands out as a more potent catalyst, enhancing its efficacy during chemical processes.

According to the research team, the photocatalyst UC-POP-Au can also be used to create personal protective equipment. It has high application potential as a promising material for various other industries beyond the detoxification of chemical warfare agents. 

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