The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) is hosting a four-day “Materials Camp 2025” for school students in Kanpur. The camp is being organized by Material Advantage@IIT Kanpur, a student technical chapter under the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), in collaboration with the Advanced Centre for Materials Science (ACMS), Materials Society, Indian Institute of Metals (IIM) Kanpur Chapter, Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) Kanpur Chapter, and ASM International India Chapter.

The camp has drawn participation from 42 students and nine teachers across nine Kanpur schools, including Jai Narayan Vidya Mandir, Jugal Devi Saraswati Vidya Mandir, Air Force School, Dr. Virendra Swaroop Education Centre, Kendriya Vidyalaya IIT Kanpur, Methodist High School, Allenhouse Public School, Sheiling House School, and DPS Kalyanpur.
At the inaugural event, Prof. Anish Upadhyaya, Chair, IIM Kanpur Chapter and Head, ACMS, spoke about the importance of exploring innovative applications of materials engineering in real-world contexts. He said, “We believe in nurturing scientific curiosity early on and initiatives like the Materials Camp introduce students to the wonders of materials science and reflect our commitment to building a strong foundation for India’s scientific future.”

Prof. Kantesh Balani, Head, MSE and Chair, INAE Kanpur Chapter, welcomed the attendees and highlighted the pivotal role of materials in shaping human civilization. He said, “From ancient tools to advanced space technologies, materials have driven human progress. Materials Camp introduces students to this fascinating journey and helps them see how materials science continues to shape our future.”

Speaking virtually, Dr. Navin Manjooran, President, ASM International, and Mr. Lawrence Somrack, Treasurer, ASM International, applauded the initiative and emphasized ASM International’s global legacy as the largest materials society in the world. They congratulated all participants for being a part of this engaging educational experience.

The technical sessions commenced with a talk on “Classification of Materials” by Prof. Niraj Chawake, who introduced students to the processing–property–performance relationship of materials. This was followed by Prof. Kantesh Balani’s talk on “The Fascinating World of Materials”, which covered topics ranging from re-entry space vehicle materials to superhydrophobic surfaces and structural coloration in peacock feathers.

Hands-on demonstrations included a session titled “Disassembling a Television”, led by Ms. Shruti Dubey and Mr. P. Shiven, where students explored the functional materials embedded in a flat LED TV. Afternoon lab sessions introduced students to sample preparation and microscopy techniques in the physical metallurgy lab, offering them an opportunity to polish samples and examine microstructures under an optical microscope.

The Materials Camp 2025 aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by showcasing the vibrant and impactful world of materials science. Through interactive sessions and real-time lab exposure, the camp seeks to ignite curiosity and encourage students to consider a future in materials science and engineering.