Department of Aeronautical Engineering (AE)

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Aeronautical Engineering, 2024

Thesis Topic: Development of Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Carbon Nanotube And Natural Fiber For Commercial Applications.
Outcome:

• Developed a fuzzy algorithm to select natural fibers based on their physical and mechanical properties.
• Developed NFRP composites with and without incorporating pristine Carbon Nanotubes (CNT).
• Analyzed the effect of ultrasonication on the agglomeration of CNTs in Epoxy.
• Determined mechanical as well as physical properties of the developed composites.
• Applied Finite Element Method (FEM) to determine the mechanical properties of developed composites (RVE).

Published Paper: 

1. Bhadra, D., & Dhar, N. R. (2022). Selection of the Natural Fiber for Sustainable Applications in Aerospace Cabin Interior using Fuzzy MCDM model. In Materialia (p. 101270). Elsevier. (Link)
2. Bhadra, D., Dhar, N. R., & Abdus Salam, M. (2021). Sensitivity analysis of the integrated AHP-TOPSIS and CRITIC-TOPSIS method for selection of the natural fiber. In Materials Today: Proceedings. Elsevier. (Link)

Bachelor of Science, Aeronautical Engineering, 2018
Thesis Topic: Study of the effects of Moving Surface Boundary-layer Control (MSBC) on a double cylinder configuration: NACA 0018 airfoil.
Outcome:

• Developed a numerical model to analyze lift over a modified symmetric airfoil.
• Determined lift and drag coefficient numerically using the developed model.

Published Paper: 

1. Khan, N.A., Salam, M.A., Faisal, K.M. and Bhadra, D., 2018, July. Computational study of airfoil performance with the incorporation of a moving surface at the leading edge. In AIP Conference Proceedings (Vol. 1980, No. 1). AIP Publishing. (Link)

ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE

Lecturer (2018 – till date)
Aeronautical Engineering Department
Military Institute of Science and Technology
Dhaka, Bangladesh.

COURSES CONDUCTED

PUBLICATIONS

1. Bhadra, D., & Dhar, N. R. (2022). Selection of the Natural Fiber for Sustainable Applications in Aerospace Cabin Interior using Fuzzy MCDM model. In Materialia (p. 101270). Elsevier. (Link)
2. Bhadra, D., & Dhar, N. R. (2022). Study of the Delamination Factor and Taper Angle in Drilling of Natural Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Nanocomposite Materials. In Materials Today: Proceedings. Elsevier. (Link)
3. Bhadra, D., Dhar, N. R., & Abdus Salam, M. (2021). Sensitivity analysis of the integrated AHP-TOPSIS and CRITIC-TOPSIS method for selection of the natural fiber. In Materials Today: Proceedings. Elsevier. (Link)
4. Chakma, P., Bhadra, D. and Dhar, N. R. (2021). Modeling and Optimization of the Control Parameters in Machining of Aluminum Metal Matrix Nanocomposite under CNT induced Nanofluid, In Materials Today: Proceedings. Elsevier. (Link)
5. Khan, N. A., Salam, M. A., Faisal, K. M., & Bhadra, D. (2018, July). Computational study of airfoil performance with the incorporation of a moving surface at the leading edge. In AIP Conference Proceedings (Vol. 1980, No. 1, p. 040016). AIP Publishing LLC. (Link)
6. Haque, M., Jony, B., Hossain, M.M., Bhadra, D., Hafiz, K.N. and Salam, M.A. (2015, December), LIPCA in the Development of Shape Changing Aerial Vehicle,International Conference on Mechanical, Industrial and Materials Engineering, Bangladesh. (Link)

ONGOING RESEARCH PROJECTS

1. Data-Driven Air Quality Monitoring: PM 2.5 and AQI Predictions for Dhaka Using Python and ML.
   The project aims to develop a predictive model for the Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM 2.5 levels in Dhaka City to provide timely information for public health interventions. Utilizing data from local monitoring stations, the focus is on offering actionable insights for policymakers. Methodologically, we leverage Python for data collection and pre-processing, then applying machine learning algorithms to build and train the predictive model. The model's performance is validated through cross-validation techniques and compared against historical data for accuracy.
    
2. Analysis of thermogravimetric analysis on CNT-reinforced PMC.
   The ongoing project aims to perform thermogravimetric analysis on Carbon Nanotube (CNT) filled Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer (NFRP) composites to investigate their thermal properties and degradation mechanisms. The study seeks to provide comparative insights into the thermal stability of these two types of advanced composites for potential applications.The testing methodology involves subjecting CNT and NFRP composite samples to controlled thermal conditions using a thermogravimetric analyzer to measure weight loss as a function of temperature. This data is then analyzed to ascertain each composite material's thermal degradation kinetics and stability.
    
3. Designing a Smart UAV: Integrating Return-to-Home and Autopilot Systems for Advanced Agricultural Operations.
   The ongoing project aims to design a smart UAV equipped with advanced return-to-home and autopilot systems, specifically tailored for agricultural operations. The goal is to optimize crop monitoring and treatment by automating complex flight patterns and navigation. Methodologically, the project employs both hardware and software development: integrating GPS, gyroscope, and other sensors for real-time location tracking while also programming the UAV's onboard computer to execute complex tasks autonomously. Extensive field tests are conducted to validate the UAV's capabilities in varying agricultural conditions.
    
4. Optimization of parking orbit for Earth to Mars Missions.
   The ongoing project focuses on optimizing the parking orbit for missions traveling from Earth to Mars to enhance fuel efficiency and mission success rates. The primary goal is to minimize energy expenditure while ensuring mission-critical orbital parameters. For methodology, we are employing advanced computational simulations using tools like MATLAB and specialized orbital mechanics software to identify the optimal parking orbits. These theoretical results are then cross-referenced with existing mission data to validate their feasibility and effectiveness.
    
5. Investigating Aerodynamics: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of a Blended Wing Body Aircraft.
   The ongoing project aims to investigate the aerodynamics of a Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft, focusing on its potential benefits for fuel efficiency and lift-to-drag ratio. The goal is to provide insights into how BWB configurations could revolutionize future aircraft design. For the methodology, we employ Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis using ANSYS software to simulate various flight conditions and evaluate aerodynamic performance metrics. Wind tunnel testing further verifies the simulation results for real-world applicability and validation.

COMPLETED RESEARCH PROJECTS

1. Impact of CNT-Induced Nanofluids on the Precision Machining of Metal Matrix Composites.
   The completed project sought to fill a gap in the existing literature by focusing on the optimization of turning operations for nano Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) using Carbon Nanotube-based nanofluid, a material relatively new to commercial aviation industries. These MMCs were particularly scrutinized for their performance in both dry and wet mechanical turning conditions. Employing Taguchi orthogonal array design for methodological rigor, the study successfully optimized the control parameters, particularly in wet environments induced with nanofluid. The research found that higher cutting speeds and lower feed rates, when coupled with an SNMG carbide insert, significantly improved the surface quality of these complex materials.
   
   Published Paper: 
   Chakma, P., Bhadra, D. and Dhar, N. R. (2021). Modeling and Optimization of the Control Parameters in Machining of Aluminum Metal Matrix Nanocomposite under CNT induced Nanofluid, In Materials Today: Proceedings. Elsevier. (Link)
    
2. Study the Delamination Factor and Taper Angle on the Machining of Natural Fiber and Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Composites.
   The completed project aimed to explore a little-researched area in mechanical engineering: the impact of drilling on hybrid nanocomposites, specifically those reinforced with natural fibers like Sisal and Coir and Carbon Nanotubes (CNT). This research fills an existing gap in the literature and has applications in industries like aviation and automobiles. Using the hand lay-up method for composite fabrication, the study varied the weight fractions of the natural fibers and examined how different drilling parameters influenced hole quality metrics such as roundness error, delamination factor, and taper angle. It was determined that a unit ratio of weight fractions between sisal and coir fibers resulted in minimized delamination and improved hole quality, offering valuable insights for manufacturing industries.
   
   Published Paper: 
   Bhadra, D., & Dhar, N. R. (2022). Study of the Delamination Factor and Taper Angle in Drilling of Natural Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Nanocomposite Materials. In Materials Today: Proceedings. Elsevier. (Link)
    
3. Design and Development of Target Drone for Bangladesh Army.
   In a project funded by the Bangladesh Army, I was part of the team responsible for designing and developing a Target Drone for training exercises. The main objective was to create a highly reliable and adaptive drone that could emulate potential aerial threats in various operational scenarios. One of my key contributions was developing an adaptive control algorithm, which ensured stable flight for the UAV under various conditions, such as wind gusts and changes in payload. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis was conducted to validate the drone's aerodynamic performance, further refining the airframe for optimum stability and control.
    
4. Utilizing Ultrasonic Sensors for Enhanced Object Detection in 3D Space.
   The completed project focused on leveraging ultrasonic sensors to improve object detection in three-dimensional space, a critical requirement for various applications like robotics, surveillance, and autonomous vehicles. The research aimed to enhance the accuracy and range of conventional object detection methods. The methodology employed involved a systematic calibration and data fusion approach, using multiple ultrasonic sensors placed strategically to capture a 360-degree view of the environment. Algorithms were then developed to interpret the sensor data and construct accurate 3D maps for real-time object detection.
    
5. Natural Fiber and Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Composites for Aerospace Cabin Interior.
   The project aimed to develop a new class of composites for aerospace cabin interiors by reinforcing natural and glass fibers with Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs). The motivation behind this research was to achieve lighter, stronger, and more environmentally sustainable materials that meet the stringent safety standards of the aerospace industry. The methodology encompassed selecting and preparing natural and glass fibers, which were reinforced with CNTs using an optimized fabrication process. The resultant composites underwent rigorous mechanical and flammability testing to evaluate their suitability for aerospace applications, revealing significant strength and fire resistance improvements.

AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS

1. MIST Research Grant Award - 2023 for outstanding publications in 2022.
2. “MIST Medal-2017” was awarded for the first position in the department.
3. MIST Commandant’s List of Honor Certificate (2014-2017) [For CGPA >3.80 in Each Academic Year]
4. MIST Scholarship 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017.

LEADERSHIP & MENTORSHIP EXPERIENCE

Counselor of MIST Aeronautics & Astronautics Club (MAAC), 2018 – till date

OUTREACH

1. Seminar on Aeronautical Engineering in Bangladesh, Notre Dame College, Dhaka, Bangladesh, 2018.
2. Chief Organizer, Workshop on Design and Fabrication of Remote Controlled Aircraft, MIST, Dhaka, 2023.
3. Organizing Member, Seminar on SPACE RESEARCH AND SCOPE, MIST, Dhaka, 2023.

CONTACT

Debanan Bhadra
Email: dipto@ae.mist.ac.bd
Office: Room No 1015, 10th Floor, Tower II, MIST.