Abstract:
Some of the most promising ideas for clean energy today lie at the crossroads of fields that rarely interact. Take artificial photosynthesis-it mimics nature’s ability to store sunlight in chemical bonds, and in theory, could yield fuels like hydrogen without emitting carbon. But turning this vision into a working technology has proved tough: efficiency losses, unstable materials, and incomplete reactions persist. At the same time, radiation chemistry, a discipline shaped largely by nuclear science, has quietly been demonstrating ways to drive chemical changes using gamma rays, recoil atoms, or decay energy-methods that don’t always need reagents in the traditional sense. This paper takes a step back and asks: What happens if we combine these two worlds? Can radiation be used not just for sterilization or imaging, but to support photocatalysis-perhaps by enhancing charge separation or creating more durable catalysts? We propose a few possible routes for doing exactly that, and argue that this hybrid approach could open up new, efficient pathways for generating hydrogen and other fuels, all while keeping atom economy in sharp focus. It’s a different kind of fusion-one that might help reshape how we think about clean chemical production.
Biography:
Dr. Shree Niwas Chaturvedi is a distinguished researcher, innovative educator, and advocate for transforming science education. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry, specializing in Nuclear and Radiochemistry, from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, in 2000. His pioneering research spans hot atom chemistry, the chemical effects of nuclear transformations, and energy conversion technologies. Soon after earning his doctorate, Dr. Chaturvedi established the Centre for Aptitude Analysis & Talent Search (theEXPLORER) in Buxar, India. This unique institute focuses on identifying and nurturing children’s innate talents through aptitude-based analysis, equipping them to excel in their chosen fields. His teaching philosophy harmoniously blends ancient Indian educational wisdom with contemporary methodologies, creating an engaging and impactful learning environment.
A prolific contributor to academia, Dr. Chaturvedi has authored numerous research papers, articles, and books. Highlights of his contributions include presenting “Water Splitting Technology for Efficient Thermal Energy Conversion” at the 4th Chemistry World Conference in 2024 and “Revolutionizing Science Education: Innovative Practices for Future-Ready Learners” at the World Education Conference in Athens, 2024. In 2025, he conducted a groundbreaking workshop on “Integrating Ancient Pedagogical Wisdom with Modern Educational Techniques for Holistic Learning” at the 8th International Conference on Future Education in Bali, Indonesia. Beyond research and education, Dr. Chaturvedi serves as a scientific advisor to Ganesh Engineering Works, Buxar, where he drives innovation in energy technologies. As an academic consultant to Heritage School and other institutions like Foundation School and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Nawanagar, he empowers educators and students alike.
Dr. Chaturvedi’s contributions extend to community outreach through science seminars, teacher training workshops, and student enrichment programs. His relentless dedication to integrating innovative practices in education exemplifies his vision of equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Recognized as a visionary leader, Dr. Shree Niwas Chaturvedi continues to inspire and revolutionize science education, leaving an indelible mark on the academic and scientific communities