Vidya Devi Jindal School, supported by Jindal Stainless, on Oct 6 organised an interactive knowledge session on ‘Stainless Steel – The metal that refuses to rust and the chemistry behind it’ for students of Classes XI and XII Science, connecting classroom concepts with their practical applications in the stainless steel industry. Conducted in collaboration with the Hisar plant of Jindal Stainless, the session gave students an opportunity to the fundamentals of stainless steel connecting the class room fundamentals to industry scale manufacturing.
The session was led by Associate General Manager – Research & Development, Jindal Stainless, Dr Arnab Kundu. Drawing on his experience in industrial research and stainless steel manufacturing, Dr Kundu connected concepts from the students’ science curriculum with their applications in material development and manufacturing processes.
The session covered fundamental concepts including the atomic structure, periodic table, alloys, oxidation, corrosion and material properties. Students learnt how the addition of chromium transforms steel into stainless steel and how the protective chromium oxide layer gives the material its corrosion resistance. The discussion also introduced students to the four major families of stainless steel – austenitic, ferritic, martensitic and duplex – and their applications across sectors such as healthcare, railways, automobiles, architecture, food processing and chemical industries.
Moving beyond the science of the material, the interaction also offered students a glimpse into the people, processes and career opportunities behind stainless steel manufacturing. Through direct interaction with an industry professional working in research and development, students gained an understanding of how basic fundamentals of science can translate into real-world careers spanning manufacturing, research, engineering and materials science.
The interactive format encouraged students to connect their academic learning with industrial applications. During the Q&A session, students engaged with Dr Kundu on the science and manufacturing of stainless steel, its diverse applications, and the role of research and innovation in developing materials for specific requirements.
The session forms part of Vidya Devi Jindal School’s efforts to create experiential learning opportunities that complement classroom education.
