Manikandan Palanisamy

Manikandan Palanisamy is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. His research focuses on energy storage systems, particularly batteries, with expertise in electrochemistry, solid-state chemistry, and advanced material design. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the CSIR–Central Electro-Chemical Research Institute (2015) and has held postdoctoral positions at Purdue University, UNIST, and IISER Trivandrum. His work bridges fundamental material science with applied battery technologies, addressing challenges in thermal safety, electrode design, and sustainable energy solutions.

Education:

• PhD, Chemistry, 2015 – CSIR–Central Electro-Chemical Research Institute
• M. Phil., Chemistry, 2008 – Bharathidasan University
• M. Sc., Chemistry, 2006 – Bharathidasan University
• B. Sc., Chemistry, 2004 – Bharathidasan University

Research Interests: Dr. Palanisamy's research spans energy storage materials, including lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and potassium-ion batteries. He investigates advanced separators, cathode/anode architectures, thermal runaway mechanisms, and sustainable electrode materials derived from waste. His work emphasizes improving battery longevity, safety, and efficiency through innovative material synthesis and characterization techniques.

Publications: His recent work highlights breakthroughs in high-voltage cathode stability, waste-derived battery materials, and thermal safety innovations. Over 25 peer-reviewed articles and patents reflect contributions to both fundamental science and industrial applications.

Awards:

• Outstanding Postdoctoral Researcher (2022) – Purdue University
• CSIR-Senior Research Fellowship (2011) – India

Grants & Labs: Collaborates on projects funded by the US Department of Energy and industry partners. Active in the University of Tennessee’s advanced battery prototyping and materials characterization labs.