Johor Bahru, 6 August 2025 – The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), proudly congratulates ChM. Dr. Sheela Chandren from the Department of Chemistry for winning the Best Presenter Award at the International Nexus Conference (INeXCo 2025), held from 3–6 August 2025.
Dr. Sheela’s winning presentation, titled “Photochromic Titania Thin Films by Magnetron Sputtering Method for the Photodegradation of Dimethyl Phthalate,” showcased innovative research on sustainable nanomaterials for environmental applications. Her work focuses on titania (TiO₂) thin films, which were successfully deposited on glass substrates via magnetron sputtering. These films demonstrated strong adhesion without peeling or cracking and showed significant photocatalytic activity in degrading dimethyl phthalate (DMP), a harmful plasticizer linked to environmental and health concerns.
Key highlights of her study include:
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Successful deposition of durable TiO₂ thin films using magnetron sputtering.
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Demonstration of photocatalytic activity against dimethyl phthalate, even after multiple cycles of use.
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Enhancement of visible light absorption by incorporating photochromic materials, extending the films’ efficiency in pollutant degradation.
This research addresses critical environmental challenges by proposing an effective approach for removing dimethyl phthalate and similar pollutants from water sources, aligning with global efforts for sustainable water treatment technologies.
The award not only highlights Dr. Sheela’s excellence in scientific presentation but also strengthens UTM’s international reputation for impactful research in green chemistry, nanotechnology, and environmental sustainability.
The Faculty of Science extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Sheela Chandren for this remarkable achievement and looks forward to more pioneering contributions in the future.
