A determined young man who once studied in a Zilla Parishad school in Igatpuri has firmly planted the flag of his achievements straight at the renowned New York University (NYU) in America. Nashik’s son, Dr. Charudatta Shivdas Mhasde, recently earned his ‘Ph.D.’ (Doctorate) in Mechanical Engineering. His research is focused on developing “low-carbon, sustainable, and CO₂-absorbing geopolymer materials” to overcome the crises of ‘global warming’ and carbon emissions that are threatening the entire world. The topic of his research is “Analysis and Characterization of Geopolymer Material for Additive Manufacturing and Carbon Capture Application,” and his success story has become a matter of pride and inspiration not just for Nashik, but for all of Maharashtra.
Dr. Mhasde is being conferred with this honorable degree at NYU’s annual commencement ceremony, and his research is receiving widespread appreciation everywhere.
Savior of the Environment: What exactly is the research?
Dr. Mhasde completed this research under the guidance of Dr. Katsuo Kurabayashi and Prof. Christian Pongratz. Currently, rising global temperatures and carbon emissions caused by concrete jungles have become critical issues. Finding a solution to this, Dr. Mhasde has researched ‘low-carbon geopolymer cement and carbon dioxide-absorbing materials’ using industrial waste.
His research will be extremely useful for sustainable construction in the future. Moreover, this technology can absorb harmful carbon dioxide from the atmosphere (Carbon Capture – CCUS technology). Developing eco-friendly materials for modern 3D printing technology is a major step toward greenhouse gas absorption. Two world-class ‘peer-reviewed’ research papers based on this important work have also been published.
Z.P. School to New York University: A Tough Yet Inspiring Journey
Dr. Mhasde’s journey here was not easy. He received his primary education at the Zilla Parishad schools in Padali (De.) and Wadhivarhe in the Igatpuri taluka. After completing his secondary education from Adarsh Madhyamik Vidyalaya in Nashik, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Amrutvahini College of Engineering, Sangamner. He later completed his M.Tech. from the prestigious V.J.T.I. in Mumbai.
After his higher education, he worked for 12 long years at the ‘K. K. Wagh Engineering College’ in Nashik as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Entrepreneurship Development Department, engaging in teaching and applied research. On the strength of this experience, interdisciplinary projects done with students, and his sheer determination, he realized his dream of getting a doctorate from America.
Sense of Social Commitment Alongside Research
Not just confining himself to the laboratory, Dr. Mhasde has also made his mark on administrative and social levels. The ‘Community Education Council’ (CEC District-13) is an extremely important democratic administrative body in the New York City public education system. He has been elected as an administrative member on this committee for the 2025-2027 term. Through this, he is working on local school policies and student facilities.
In addition, he has also recently been appointed as the ‘Global Ambassador’ for ‘Garje Marathi Global,’ a global organization that brings together Marathi students, researchers, and professionals worldwide.
Credit of Success Goes to Family!
Navigating through highly adverse conditions, Dr. Charudatta Mhasde has achieved this towering success on the strength of determination and consistency. Throughout this entire journey, he received the solid support of his parents, wife, son, relatives, and friends.
