
Shiv Kumar, PhD
Research Scholar, IIT Bombay
I am Shiv Kumar, a Ph.D. researcher at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, specializing in Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science. My research focuses on the effect of hydrogen on the performance of steels, particularly investigating hydrogen embrittlement and its impact on mechanical properties.
Before my Ph.D., I completed my M.Tech from IIT Kharagpur, where I worked on the deformation behavior of Mg-rare earth alloys under the guidance of Prof. Somjeet Biswas. This research deepened my understanding of alloying effects, deformation mechanisms, and material performance under different loading conditions.
With a strong background in materials science and engineering, I am passionate about exploring structure-property relationships, failure mechanisms, and advanced materials processing. My work aims to contribute to the development of more durable and reliable materials for industrial applications.
Feel free to connect with me to discuss metallurgical research, collaborations, or industry applications in material performance and fracture analysis.
My research is centered on understanding the behavior of advanced metallic materials under extreme conditions, with a strong focus on high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels, Mg-rare earth alloys, and pipeline steels for hydrogen supply applications. Specifically, my interests include:
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Hydrogen Embrittlement in Steels – Investigating the impact of hydrogen on mechanical properties, failure mechanisms, and mitigation strategies, particularly in pipeline steels used for hydrogen transportation.
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Deformation and Fracture Mechanics – Exploring how microstructural features influence plasticity, damage evolution, and failure in HSLA steels and Mg-rare earth alloys.
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Alloy Design and Processing – Fundamental knowledge of the role of rare earth elements in Mg alloys and thermomechanical treatments in steels to enhance mechanical performance.
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Advanced Characterization Techniques – Utilizing electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and in-situ mechanical testing to establish structure-property relationships in these critical materials.
Through my research, I aim to contribute to the development of high-performance materials for industries such as hydrogen energy, aerospace, and automotive, where material reliability is essential.

