Aditya B Hon
Mumbai
Summary
Research Scientist with extensive experience in chemical engineering and material science, specializing in green propulsion systems, focusing on thruster combustion chambers for H₂O₂-based monopropellants. Experienced in catalyst development, decomposition kinetics, and thruster testing (Isp, thrust, combustion stability). Skilled in material shaping, monolith extrusion, and propulsion system qualification through vibration, shock, and thermal vacuum testing. Passionate about driving sustainable space propulsion forward.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
41
41
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Associate Scientist
Manastu Space
07.2023 - Current
- Green Propulsion Systems – Developed and optimized catalyst-based monopropellant thrusters for eco-friendly propulsion, focusing on H₂O₂ and ethanol decomposition.
- Thruster Testing & Performance Evaluation – Developed and executed test plans for thruster firings, including Isp, thrust efficiency, impulse bit, and pressure-drop characterization.
- Evaluated specific impulse (Isp), combustion efficiency, and impulse bit to enhance propellant utilization in green thrusters.
- Vibration, Shock & Thermo-Vac Testing – Conducted environmental qualification tests for propulsion components ensuring flight readiness.
- Advanced expertise in synthesizing and shaping catalysts for aerospace applications, optimizing reaction kinetics and process durability
- Engineered a high-temperature heterogeneous catalyst capable of withstanding temperatures of 1200-1400C, contributing to proprietary advancements in aerospace fuel decomposition and combustion
- Designed and implemented advanced test methods for pressure and temperature systems, fuel flow systems, and reactors aligned to aerospace requirements
- Analyzed reaction kinetics and thermodynamics of ADN/HAN-based propellants to improve ignition delay, stability, and performance.
- Led the shaping and extrusion of monolith catalysts, improving mechanical stability and reactivity for long-duration missions.
- Analyzed process parameters to optimize catalyst performance, achieving a 20% increase in fuel conversion efficiency using statistical modelling and experimental validation
- Utilized computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools to simulate and analyze thruster fluid dynamics, optimizing design efficiency by 25% and contributing to enhanced fuel performance metrics
- Development of novel propulsion materials that improved specific impulse by 15%, leveraging extensive chemical kinetics and material science research for process optimization
- Demonstrated expertise in oxidative pathways and redox pathways through the development and optimization of catalysts for the controlled decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) based propellant
- Developed intellectual property through innovative research in aerospace materials and processes
Research Associate
Laboratory for Advance material, devices and its application
01.2022 - 07.2023
- Synthesis of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles and their composite
- Developed advanced methodologies for the fabrication of composite nanomaterials, enhancing their stability and functional properties, which contributed to a 15% improvement in sensor sensitivity and performance in real-world applications
- Investigation of chemical interaction between the material and molecule
- Designed and executed multi-phase experimental protocols to evaluate the efficiency of novel nanocomposite materials, achieving a 20% enhancement in catalytic activity, validated through rigorous analytical techniques
- Testing the material with CV and EIS
- Conducted in-depth analysis of synthesized nanomaterials using instrumental techniques such as XRD, SEM, TEM, and various spectroscopy methods, leading to a 25% increase in data accuracy for electrochemical sensor applications
Research Intern
OrbitX India Aerospace
09.2021 - 12.2021
- Development of Nanocomposite Material to withstand high temperature and low weight for the propulsion system
- Conducted material synthesis and experimental testing to ensure compatibility with aerospace applications
- Characterization of material using techniques such as BET, XRD, SEM, and TGA to link structural features
Education
Master of Science - Material Science
University of Mumbai
Mumbai, IN 04.2001 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Science - Minor in Physics
Pune University
Pune, India 04.2001 - 01.2021
Skills
CFD
Ansys
Thermal Analysis
Heat and Mass Transfer
Thermodynamics
Pressure and Temperature System
Vibration Testing
Thermo vac
Shock Testing
UV-Vis Spectroscopy
FTIR
Catalysis
UTM
Rietveld Refinement
Spectroscopy
AFM
XPS
ASTM Standard
Chemical Analysis
Material Science & Material Characterization
Surface Coating and Deposition
Scientific and Numerical Skills
Gas Chromatography
MAUD
Material Functionalization and Coating
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Timeline
Associate Scientist
Manastu Space
07.2023 - Current
Research Associate
Laboratory for Advance material, devices and its application
01.2022 - 07.2023
Research Intern
OrbitX India Aerospace
09.2021 - 12.2021
Master of Science - Material Science
University of Mumbai
04.2001 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Science - Minor in Physics
Pune University
04.2001 - 01.2021