Cellulose Nanofibers Aerogel-Embedded Phase Change Materials for Soldiers’ Thermal Regulation
Project Snapshot
| Activity Lead: | Abhijeet Mali |
| Lead Institute: | |
| Partners: | |
| Tags: | Resilient Materials , Advanced Materials |
Research Goal
Developing nature-based advanced materials that respond to extreme hot weather conditions to maintain consistent body temperature of the wearer.
Project Description
Develop a lightweight, thermally responsive, and resilient composite by encapsulating eutectic phase change materials (PCMs) within cellulose nanofiber aerogels.
Impact
This offers a nature-based, high-performance solution for next-generation textiles designed for extreme applications, with applications in the defense industry as well as electronics, construction, packaging and beyond, effectively reducing the reliance on petroleum based materials.
Project Progress
Project Outputs
Discover the tangible outcomes and impact of this project.
Abhijeet Mali
UNC Greensboro
Research Scientist, Joint School of Nanoscience & Nanoengineering (JSNN)
At the Joint School of Nanoscience & Nanoengineering (JSNN), affiliated with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Abhijeet Mali develops high-performance polymer nanocomposites for applications in aerospace, automotive, and semiconductor manufacturing.
His research focuses on two interconnected areas: the synthesis of glass and carbon nanomaterials, including fiber development in single-phase, core-shell, and hollow configurations, and the engineering of epoxy and bio-binder matrix composite systems. Surface functionalization of glass nanoparticles connects both threads, shaping how nanoscale structure translates into mechanical and functional performance in demanding manufacturing environments.
Mali’s work draws on training in both materials and mechanical engineering, with expertise across nanomaterials, polymers, and materials chemistry. He has contributed to collaborative research projects resulting in peer-reviewed publications and holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Nanoengineering, Materials Science, Joint School of Nanoscience & Nanoengineering, 2024
- Master of Technology (M.Tech.), Machine Design, Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), 2013
- Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.), Mechanical Engineering, KIT’s College of Engineering Kolhapur, 2010
