Work aims to transform waste into value while contributing to cleaner energy systems
Dr Pranay Morajkar's work focuses on converting CO₂, a major greenhouse gas, into valuable chemicals while simultaneously utilising glycerol, a low-value by-product of the biofuel industry.
DOHA
In a significant academic achievement for Goa, Dr Pranay P. Morajkar, Senior Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Goa University, recently delivered a presentation at the prestigious DECHEMA 59th Jahrestreffen Deutscher Katalytiker (Catalysis Conference) held in Weimar, Germany.
The conference is regarded as one of the largest and most influential gatherings of catalysis researchers in the country.
At the international forum, Dr Morajkar presented his pioneering research on the design of nano-microstructured catalysts aimed at addressing two critical global challenges—carbon dioxide (CO₂) mitigation and glycerol valorisation.
His work focuses on converting CO₂, a major greenhouse gas, into valuable chemicals while simultaneously utilising glycerol, a low-value by-product of the biofuel industry.
The innovative process results in the production of glycerol carbonate, a high-value compound widely used in polymers, green solvents, and emerging battery technologies. With increasing global emphasis on Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) technologies, such research is gaining prominence as a viable pathway toward achieving net-zero emissions.
“This work aims to transform waste into value—both CO₂ and glycerol—while contributing to cleaner energy systems,” Dr Morajkar said during his presentation.
The platform also provided an opportunity to highlight the growing research ecosystem at Goa University.
Dr Morajkar showcased the Laboratory of Nanostructured Materials for Energy and Environmental Applications, along with the strong infrastructure and interdisciplinary research culture within the School of Chemical Sciences (SCS), the University Material Characterization Laboratory (UMCL), and the Goa University Research Park Unit (GURU). These facilities collectively support advanced materials research, analytical capabilities, and innovation-driven academic initiatives in Goa.
Currently on Extraordinary Leave (EOL) for higher studies, Dr Morajkar is engaged in advanced research at the Department of Physical Chemistry at PTB, Braunschweig, Germany, under the guidance of Prof Ravi Fernandes.
His ongoing work focuses on developing advanced catalytic reactors and laser-based diagnostic techniques to better understand catalytic processes relevant to clean energy and environmental applications.
Dr Morajkar holds an impressive academic portfolio, with over 50 international publications in high-impact journals, six book chapters, one edited book, and multiple funded research projects supported by leading Indian agencies including DST, SERB, UGC, INNO-INDIGO Indo-European Research Grant, DST&WM, and GSRF Government of Goa.
He also holds two Indian patents in catalyst design, underscoring his commitment to innovation and translational research.
His participation at the DECHEMA conference not only highlights his individual accomplishments but also underscores the growing international recognition of Goan research. It further positions Goa University and the state of Goa as emerging hubs for advanced scientific research and innovation on the global stage.
