Rakesh Agrawal

Rakesh Agrawal is the Winthrop E. Stone Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering at Purdue University's College of Engineering. His research focuses on sustainable chemical processes, energy systems, and advanced materials. Key affiliations include the Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering programs. He actively contributes to committees such as the Dean's Awards Committee and institutional awards and honors initiatives.

His research interests span chalcogenide perovskite synthesis, energy-efficient distillation systems, photovoltaic technologies (especially agrivoltaics), and electrification of chemical plants. Notable work includes developing low-temperature perovskite fabrication methods, optimizing distillation configurations via MINLP formulations, and advancing agrivoltaic systems for dual energy and crop productivity.

Recent publications emphasize breakthroughs in BaZrS3 synthesis, electrified ethylene cracking towers, and energy storage strategies for renewable integration. His work bridges chemical engineering fundamentals with real-world applications in sustainability and materials innovation.

Dr. Agrawal collaborates extensively on projects involving solution-processed semiconductors, electron microscopy adaptations for material analysis, and process intensification. His lab focuses on translating laboratory discoveries into scalable industrial and environmental solutions.