About
Dr. B Praphulla Chandra is a researcher in Analytical and Atmospheric Chemistry at the Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, Germany, affiliated with the Interdisciplinary Faculty Life Light & Matter. His work focuses on the chemical analysis of aerosols, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microplastics in the atmosphere.
- Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (2007–2010)
- Master of Science (Chemistry), Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (2010–2012)
- Ph.D. in Analytical and Atmospheric Chemistry, IISER Mohali (2013–2018)
- Postdoctoral Research, University of Washington, Seattle (2018–2020)
His research interests include analytical atmospheric chemistry, multiphase chemistry, emissions and chemistry of VOCs, sub-micron organic aerosols, and the development of advanced mass spectrometric techniques. He leads the AeroMass R&D project, which aims to develop a single-particle time-of-flight mass spectrometer for aerosol chemical analysis. His work bridges environmental monitoring, health risk assessment, and analytical method development.
The recent publications highlight a strong trend in environmental analytical chemistry, with a focus on microplastics (PET, Nylon 66) in airborne particulate matter, health risks from trace metals and organic pollutants (PAHs, endocrine disruptors) in PM2.5, and improved detection methods for VOCs from biomass burning and urban sources. His studies are primarily centered on the Indo-Gangetic Plain and megacities like Delhi, contributing to understanding air quality and policy impacts.
Dr. Chandra mentors researchers, including Durga Prasad Patnana, who is a first-author on multiple publications. His research is likely supported by competitive grants, given the technical sophistication of the AeroMass project and international collaborations, though specific grants are not listed. He collaborates with prominent scientists such as Vinayak Sinha, Baerbel Sinha, and Daniel Jaffe.
He is actively involved in laboratory-based research and field studies, particularly in developing and applying novel analytical instrumentation for atmospheric chemistry. The AeroMass project represents a significant technical endeavor in creating next-generation aerosol analysis tools.
