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Former Professor and Senior Scientist, Houston Advanced Research Centre, The Woodlands, Texas, USA 

Talk Title:  Greenness of Things and Sustainability: Defining the Circular Economy via Nanocatalysis    

Dr. Rajender S. Varma

Former Professor and Senior Scientist, Houston Advanced Research Center, The Woodlands, Texas With over 50 years of research experience, Dr. Varma is internationally recognized for his pioneering contributions to green chemistry, nanomaterials synthesis, and sustainable environmental remediation. He has authored around 1,000 peer-reviewed publications, received 17 U.S. patents, and has an h-index of 143. A multiple-time Clarivate Analytics Highly Cited Researcher (2016–2022), he ranks among the top 1% of reviewers in Chemistry globally. 

Dr. Varma has held prestigious roles including Visiting Scientist at Palacky University, Czech Republic, and Advisory Board Member at the Centre of Excellence for Research in Sustainable Chemistry, Federal University of São Carlos, Brazil. His research has advanced eco-friendly synthetic methodologies utilizing microwave, ultrasound, and mechanochemical activation for nanocatalysis and pollutant remediation. 

He has mentored students across all academic levels and remains committed to translating chemical innovation into safer, more sustainable technologies that benefit both human health and the environment. 

Abstract

This keynote explores cutting-edge sustainable synthetic strategies using benign alternatives to conventional chemical processes. Dr. Rajender Varma highlights the use of alternative activation energy inputs such as microwave, ultrasound, and mechanochemical methods in green media or solvent-free conditions. The synthesis of heterocycles, coupling reactions, and name reactions is discussed alongside the use of nanomaterials, often derived from waste as catalysts. The presentation emphasises a sustainable route to nanoparticle synthesis using winery waste polyphenols, with a focus on applications in catalysis, toxicity reduction, and environmental remediation, ultimately framing a circular economy through green nanochemistry. 

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