Dr. Meena Laad is a doctorate in Physics ( Material Science) with more than 25 years of teaching and re-search experience. She has several research papers published in reputed International journals indexed in SCOPUS and SCI, authored books and book chapters with international publishers like Springer. A recipient of DUO India Professor fellowship 2020 Dr Laad is on Editorial Board of International journals. She also heads the International initiatives of her institute.
Effects of Surface-level Defects on Tensile and Fatigue Strength of Spot Weld Bonding – Three-sheet Steel K. Reza Kashyzadeh, M. A. Ganjabi, S. Moghbeli, A. N. Ramzi Hassan, S. V. Khlopkov, M. Laad International Journal of Engineering Transactions B Applications, 2026 The Resistance Spot Welding (RSW) technique is a prevalent method for joining thin metal sheets, particularly in transportation-related industries such as automotive and aerospace. A key advantage of RSW lies in its efficiency and the absence of additional materials, which contribute to structural weight reduction. In this study, the influence of visible defects (i.e., edge and intersection) on the mechanical behavior of triple-layer welded joints under static and fatigue loads is analyzed. To this end, a combination of laboratory testing and Finite Element Modeling (FEM) was utilized. The FEM approach was validated using experimental axial fatigue data (high-cycle S-N curves). Unlike prior research, this investigation incorporates such as surface-level defects into the FEM framework for the first time. Simulation results showed that a 0.2 mm edge defect leads to tensile and fatigue strength decrease of 5.4 % and 13.72 %, respectively, while a 0.6 mm intersection defect for the static and fatigue strengths causes reduction of 9.6 % and 54 %, respectively. These findings highlight the fatigue strength’s higher sensitivity to such defects compared to tensile strength.
Advances in surface deformation sensors covering materials mechanisms fabrication techniques and applications Priyanka Jagtap, Meena Laad Discover Applied Sciences, 2026 In modern technological systems, surface deformation sensors are crucial for detecting stress, bending, and structural alterations. They are widely used in wearable health monitoring devices, soft robotics, flexible electronics, and structural health monitoring. Advances in nanomaterials, flexible polymers, and novel fabrication techniques have enabled the development of sensors with improved sensitivity, stretchability, wear resistance, and operational stability. These sensors allows highly precise detection of minute deformations even in complex and dynamic environments. The paper presents an comprehensive overview of recent technological developments in surface deformation sensing technologies. The fundamental sensing mechanisms including resistive, capacitive, piezoelectric, optical, and triboelectric approaches are systematically analysed. The review evaluates key material systems such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, MXenes, conductive polymers, hydrogels, and hybrid composites, highlighting their mechanical flexibility and sensing performance. The study examines how design elements like serpentine interconnects, wrinkled surfaces, and origami/kirigami-inspired architectures enhances stretchability and sensitivity. The review examines fabrication approaches, such as additive manufacturing, printing, laser scribing, and lithography, with emphasis on scalability and production cost. The evaluation assesses major application areas including human-machine interaction, soft robotics, healthcare monitoring, and structural health monitoring. The research investigates key challenges such as fatigue resistance, environmental sensitivity, long-term stability, and large-scale integration. The paper presents an outline of future research directions for next-generation surface deformation sensors, highlighting emerging trends such as bio-integrated systems, wireless sensing platforms, AI-assisted data processing and self-powered sensors.
Development of hybrid graphene–biochar–metal foam composites phase change materials for building applications Sapana Dhabarde, Meena Laad Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy, 2026 Innovative research into thermal energy retention materials that improve interior thermal efficiency and lower overall energy consumption is prompted by the growing need for energy-efficient buildings. Phase change materials are known for their enormous latent heat storage capacity; however, issues with low thermal conductivity, leakage, and structural stability following repeated thermal cycling limit their practical application. This review work investigated the creation of hybrid biochar-metal foam PCM composites in order to overcome these problems. By adding graphene, rapid heat absorption and release rates are obtained, which considerably enhance thermal conductivity. Biochar, which is produced by pyrolyzing agricultural waste, offers a lightweight, extremely porous, economical, and environmentally acceptable matrix that reduces PCM leakage and promotes capillary-driven form stability. Benefits of metal foam include homogeneous heat distribution, good mechanical resistance, and structural strengthening. PCM is injected into hybrid scaffolds using the vacuum impregnation process to create form-stable composites that improve thermal transfer and minimize leakage. The findings demonstrate the use of composites in thermal-regulating wall panels, roofing systems, and passive energy-saving envelopes. For the future generation of high-performing, energy-efficient buildings, this PCM composite hybrid graphene-biochar-metal foam offers sustainable TES materials. Graphical abstract
Strontium hexaferrite (SrFe12O19) for smart sensing: a review on synthesis strategies and functional applications Priyanka Jagtap, Meena Laad Discover Materials, 2025 SrFe 12 O 19 -based sensors face challenges related to synthesis control, structural stability, and performance optimization, which hinder their widespread application. The size, shape, crystallinity, and functional behaviour of SrFe 12 O 19 particles are all modified by synthesis techniques, which directly affect sensor efficiency. Further, dopant inclusion (Co, Zn, Ni, and rare-earth elements) and nanostructuring are essential aspects that improve sensor stability, sensitivity, and selectivity; nevertheless, additional research is needed to determine their precise contributions. Several synthesis techniques, such as sol-gel, co-precipitation, hydrothermal, solid-state, and microwave-assisted processes, are critically examined in this review and connected to the structural and magnetic characteristics that control sensor performance. It also highlights recent developments in SrFe 12 O 19 -based gas, humidity, biosensors, and electromagnetic sensors while pointing out long-term stability and temperature sensitivity issues. Furthermore, optimization techniques, such as hybrid sensor designs, composite constructions, and material modifications, are investigated to improve reaction time and reliability. This review offers a thorough resource on the connection between synthesis techniques, material characteristics, and sensor efficiency for researchers working on next-generation ferrite-based sensors.
AI-driven optimisation of metal alloys for space applications Luke Rickard, Adamantios Bampoulas, Meena Laad, Eleni Mangina Discover Artificial Intelligence, 2025 This study investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate the development of metal alloys for space applications, with a focus on aluminum, nickel, and titanium alloys. The research integrates data analysis, feature selection, and machine learning (ML) models to predict critical alloy properties for space environments, including Young’s modulus, yield strength, tensile strength, specific heat, and the coefficient of thermal expansion. The study optimises ML models, such as multi-layer perceptrons and ensemble techniques, demonstrating superior predictive accuracy compared to traditional benchmarks. Additionally, predictive models are employed to recommend novel alloy compositions, potentially enhancing specific properties crucial for aerospace applications. The proposed framework identifies significant predictors through correlation analysis, optimises models to achieve superior predictive accuracy, and recommends novel alloy compositions with the potential for enhanced performance in space applications. This study significantly contributes to materials science by integrating AI with traditional methods, offering a more efficient and targeted approach to alloy development, with the potential to enhance the design and durability of space vehicles and structures.
Synthesis and characterization of carbon based polymer composites reinforced with MWCNTs and graphite in PVDF matrix Meena Laad, Anirban Sur, Girish Kale, Yury Razoumny, Akhila Shalu Scientific Reports, 2025 Lightweight polymer composites have drawn a lot of interest because of their improved mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, which make them perfect for cutting-edge engineering applications. This work reports the synthesis of hybrid polymer composites by integrating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix. The synergistic effect of MWCNTs and graphite nanoparticles was explored to achieve improved structural and functional performance. The composites were synthesised using a solution casting method to ensure dispersion of the fillers within the polymer matrix. The fabricated composite was characterized using XRD, FTIR, EDS and FESEM to evaluate its structural, compositional, morphological and elemental properties. XRD confirmed the nanofillers' crystalline phases and structural integrity within the polymer matrix. FTIR spectroscopy identified the characteristic functional groups, verifying interactions between PVDF and the incorporated nanofillers. FESEM images revealed a fibrous CNT network blended within the PVDF polymer matrix and distinct graphite flakes, ensuring uniform dispersion and adhesion. EDS confirmed the elemental composition, highlighting the presence of carbon and fluorine as primary constituents. These combined techniques provide comprehensive insight into the composite's composition, structure and potential functional properties for advanced applications.
Performance Modelling and Statistical Analysis of Metal Oxide-Based Sensors for Space Applications Priyanka Jagtap, Meena Laad 2025 IEEE Space Aerospace and Defence Conference Space 2025, 2025 This paper presents a comprehensive statistical analysis and performance modeling of metal oxide -based sensors for space applications. Mathematical models-including power-law gas response, Langmuir adsorption, Arrhenius temperature dependence, and radiation-induced degradation-were used to simulate sensor resistance under varying environmental conditions. The simulated data were analyzed using regression techniques, ANNOVA (Analysis of Variance), and Weibull reliability modeling. Results demonstrate a strong correlation between sensor resistance and environmental variables, validating the predictive capability of the models for long-duration missions. Optimization strategies such as material doping, nanostructuring , and AI-based calibration are proposed to enhance sensor stability and reliability.
Research Trend of Metal Matrix Composites reinforced with silica extracted by green route: A Bibliometric Analysis Library Philosophy and Practice, 2021
Silica based composite micro-lattice structures for space craft applications Advances in the Astronautical Sciences, 2021
Polymers in sports Meena Sadashiv Laad Polymer Science and Innovative Applications Materials Techniques and Future Developments, 2020
A Bibliometric Survey on Polymer Composites in Energy Storage Applications Library Philosophy and Practice, 2020
Tribological studies of nanomodified mineral based multi-grade engine oil International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, 2017
Biodegradable Nanocomposites for Energy Harvesting, Self-healing, and Shape Memory Deepu Thomas, John-John Cabibihan, Sasi Kumar, S. K. Khadheer Pasha, Dipankar Mandal, Meena Laad, Bal Chandra Yadav, S. I. Patil, Anil Ghule, Payal Mazumdar, Sunita Rattan, Kishor Kumar Sadasivuni Springer Series on Polymer and Composite Materials, 2017
Investigation into the effect of aluminium powder on mechanical, tribological and electrical properties of AL-ABS composites Wseas Transactions on Applied and Theoretical Mechanics, 2015
Investigating relative strengths and positions of electrical activity in the left and right hemispheres of the human brain using Electroencephalography Biomedical Research India, 2013
Brain-computer interface: Electroencephalography as an emerging tool for BCI applications International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, 2013
The study of the effect of constant frequency sound with varying intensity levels on Blood pressure and Heart rate of healthy individuals International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, 2011
RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
Advances in surface deformation sensors covering materials mechanisms fabrication techniques and applications P Jagtap, M Laad Discover Applied Sciences , 2026 2026
Development of hybrid graphene–biochar–metal foam composites phase change materials for building applications S Dhabarde, M Laad Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy , 2026 2026 Citations: 1
Dielectric enhancement in Poly (4-methyl-1-pentene) due to TiO2, BaTiO3, and BNNP filler particles B Ghule, M Laad, KR Kashyzadeh Materials Chemistry and Physics 344, 131096 , 2025 2025 Citations: 2
Strontium hexaferrite (SrFe 12 O 19 ) for smart sensing: a review on synthesis strategies and functional applications P Jagtap, M Laad Discover Materials 5 (1), 184 , 2025 2025 Citations: 5
Synthesis and characterization of carbon based polymer composites reinforced with MWCNTs and graphite in PVDF matrix M Laad, A Sur, G Kale, Y Razoumny, A Shalu Scientific Reports 15 (1), 28928 , 2025 2025 Citations: 6
Exploring multifunctionality: optical, impedance, and photocatalytic properties of Dy 0.5 Er 0.5 CrO 3 nanomaterial synthesized via sol-gel method M Rani, K Singh, A Kumari, M Laad, VS Puli, N Panwar Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology 115 (2), 778-792 , 2025 2025
Performance Modelling and Statistical Analysis of Metal Oxide-Based Sensors for Space Applications P Jagtap, M Laad 2025 IEEE Space, Aerospace and Defence Conference (SPACE), 1-6 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
Transparent Self-Cleaning Coatings for Space Applications: Enhancing Optical Performance and Longetivity A Shalu, M Laad 2025 IEEE Space, Aerospace and Defence Conference (SPACE), 1-5 , 2025 2025
Engineering piezoelectric efficiency in phase-separated PVDF nanocomposites using In 2 O 3 -ZnO heterostructure S Yempally, AR Bhapkar, R Prasad, M Laad, S Bhame, D Ponnamma Discover Polymers 2 (1), 7 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
AI-driven optimisation of metal alloys for space applications L Rickard, A Bampoulas, M Laad, E Mangina Discover Artificial Intelligence 5 (1), 35 , 2025 2025 Citations: 5
Effects of ring indentation, punching, and shot peening treatments on fatigue crack retardation considering modified J-integrals: A comparative study M Forouzanmehr, KR Kashyzadeh, M Laad Engineering Failure Analysis 170, 109282 , 2025 2025 Citations: 2
Polymer Composite Coatings Enhanced with Superhydrophobic Properties for Flexible Electronics Applications: A Review A Shalu, M Laad Polymer-Plastics Technology and Materials 64 (4), 552-573 , 2025 2025 Citations: 5
Strontium hexaferrite (SrFe P Jagtap, M Laad 2025
Superhydrophobic Surfaces in Flexible Electronic Applications: A Visual Analysis of Trends in Patents A Shalu, M Laad, KR Kashyzadeh Recent Patents on Nanotechnology , 2025 2025
Engineering piezoelectric efficiency in phase‑separated PVDF nanocomposites using In S Yempally, AR Bhapkar, R Prasad, M Laad, S Bhame, D Ponnamma 2025
Quantum computing odyssey: Teleporting to the realm of unparalleled possibilities M Laad, P Varshney, R Agarwal 2024 International Conference on Advances in Data Engineering and … , 2024 2024 Citations: 3
Unveiling the vision: A comprehensive review of computer vision in AI and ML M Laad, R Maurya, N Saiyed 2024 International conference on advances in data engineering and … , 2024 2024 Citations: 24
Fabrication of 3D-Printed Polyurethane Resin Composites and its Dielectric Performance B Ghule, M Laad, KK Sadasivuni, MR Maurya, JJ Cabibihan Chemistry Africa 7 (2), 823-833 , 2024 2024 Citations: 1
Polymer nanocomposite film and coating for electronic and optoelectronic devices B Ghule, M Laad, G Kale, KK Sadasivuni Polymer Nanocomposite Films and Coatings, 293-331 , 2024 2024 Citations: 5
Transparent and flexible zinc oxide-based thin-film diodes and thin-film transistors: A review K Natu, M Laad, B Ghule, A Shalu Journal of Applied Physics 134 (19) , 2023 2023 Citations: 30
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
Titanium oxide nanoparticles as additives in engine oil M Laad, VKS Jatti Journal of King Saud University-Engineering Sciences 30 (2), 116-122 , 2018 2018 Citations: 275
Aluminium doped ZnO nanostructures for efficient photodegradation of indigo carmine and azo carmine G in solar irradiation AR Bhapkar, M Geetha, D Jaspal, K Gheisari, M Laad, JJ Cabibihan, ... Applied Nanoscience 13 (8), 5777-5793 , 2023 2023 Citations: 63
Fabrication techniques of superhydrophobic coatings: A comprehensive review M Laad, B Ghule physica status solidi (a) 219 (16), 2200109 , 2022 2022 Citations: 54
Polymer science and innovative applications: materials, techniques, and future developments MAA AlMaadeed, D Ponnamma, MA Carignano Elsevier , 2020 2020 Citations: 49
Smart polymer nanocomposites D Ponnamma, KK Sadasivuni, JJ Cabibihan, MAA Al-Maadeed Springer series on polymer and composite materials. Switzerland , 2017 2017 Citations: 48
A consumer-based smart home with indoor air quality monitoring system K Patil, M Laad, A Kamble, S Laad IETE Journal of Research 65 (6), 758-770 , 2019 2019 Citations: 47
Removal of toxic contaminants from drinking water using biosensors: A systematic review M Laad, B Ghule Groundwater for Sustainable Development 20, 100888 , 2023 2023 Citations: 36
Polymers in sports MS Laad Polymer science and innovative applications, 485-523 , 2020 2020 Citations: 33
Transparent and flexible zinc oxide-based thin-film diodes and thin-film transistors: A review K Natu, M Laad, B Ghule, A Shalu Journal of Applied Physics 134 (19) , 2023 2023 Citations: 30
Polymer composites with improved dielectric properties: A review B Ghule, M Laad Ukrainian journal of physics 66 (2), 166-166 , 2021 2021 Citations: 27
Revealing an OSELM based on traversal tree for higher energy adaptive control using an efficient solar box cooker P Thamizharasu, S Shanmugan, S Sivakumar, CI Pruncu, AE Kabeel, ... Solar Energy 218, 320-336 , 2021 2021 Citations: 26
Unveiling the vision: A comprehensive review of computer vision in AI and ML M Laad, R Maurya, N Saiyed 2024 International conference on advances in data engineering and … , 2024 2024 Citations: 24
Poly-4-methyl-1-pentene a dielectric material: Patent landscape B Ghule, M Laad, AK Tiwari Journal of Energy Storage 36, 102335 , 2021 2021 Citations: 24
Cardiac diagnosis with machine learning: A paradigm shift in cardiac care M Laad, K Kotecha, K Patil, R Pise Applied Artificial Intelligence 36 (1), 2031816 , 2022 2022 Citations: 22
Synthesis and characterization of powder silica: A judicious recycling of the natural ceramic rice husk ash M Laad, R Datkhile, S Shanmugan Silicon 14 (3), 1123-1132 , 2022 2022 Citations: 22
A consumer-based smart home and health monitoring system K Patil, M Laad, A Kamble, S Laad International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology 58 (1), 45-54 , 2018 2018 Citations: 22
Advances in superhydrophobic coatings VS Saji Royal Society of Chemistry , 2023 2023 Citations: 18
Tribological Studies of Nanomodified Mineral based Multi-grade Engine Oil M Laad, D Ponnamma, KK Sadasivuni International Journal of Applied Engineering Research ISSN 0973-4562 12 (11 … , 2017 2017 Citations: 18
Dataset of vector mosquito images R Pise, K Patil, M Laad, N Pise Data in Brief 45, 108573 , 2022 2022 Citations: 17
Investigation into the effect of Aluminium powder on Mechanical, Tribological and Electrical properties of Al-ABS composites M LAAD, VS JATTI WSEAS TRANSACTIONS on APPLIED and THEORETICAL MECHANICS, E-ISSN: 2224-3429 … , 2015 2015 Citations: 16