Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CECRI)

About

Central Electro Chemical Research Institute (CECRI), is one of a chain of forty national laboratories under the aegis of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in New Delhi.  Founded on 25 July 1948 at Karaikudi in Tamil Nadu, CECRI has its roots in the patriotic fervor of Dr. R. M. Alagappa Chettiar, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr. Shanthi Swarup Bhatnagar. On 14th January 1953, CECRI became a physical reality when Dr. S. Radhakrishnan dedicated CECRI, the twelfth national laboratory under the CSIR, to the nation.  It serves as a launching pad for a multitude of technologies for the Indian Electrochemical industry. The 750 patents, 250 processes, 600 sponsored and grant-in-aid projects, 450 licensee and 5,500 research and review papers that the institute boasts of are ample testimony to its leadership in nation building. Naturally, reflecting on the fact that the inimitable Alagappa Chettiar donated 300 acres of land and Rs.15 lakhs in cash in 1948 to establish a national laboratory devoted solely to electrochemistry at a time when this branch of study was relegated to the flipside of the physical chemistry syllabi in universities, one cannot miss the rare philanthropy and foresightedness of this great visionary.  Today, CECRI, is one of the largest electrochemical laboratories in the world, carrying out R&D work in the area of electrochemical Science and Technology. Having a proud family of 427 employees, 137 of whom are scientists, CECRI  represents the largest Research establishment for Electrochemistry in South Asia. Headquartered at Karaikudi, CECRI has three extension centers in Chennai, Mandapam and Tuticorin.

CECRI, Karaikudi, spread over 300 acres, is located in an amply green and  serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings about 85 km away both from Trichi and Madurai.  With a large variety of flora and fauna of traditional as well as ornamental plants and trees, birds and animals, including a large number of peacocks, the campus ambience is aesthetically pleasing to the eye from every angle. The clean, green and pollution-free environment at CSIR-CECRI is quite apt for R&D work. The residents in the campus also live in harmony with nature.  There are also few places of worship - Selva Vinayagar Temple, Anjaneya Temple, Arasamaram Pillaiyar Temple and Karuppar Temple, located within the campus. The famous Kollan Kaliamman Temple is located in front of the campus.

The Centre for Education (CFE) was established in the year 1988, as an initiative of CECRI’s human resource development program. Since its establishment, CFE has been an integral part of the institute, and has contributed a great deal in shaping the lives of numerous students. It is responsible for conducting the unique 4 year/8 Semester Bachelor of technology program in Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering.  The Director of CSIR-CECRI takes overall responsibility for the running of Centre For Education, and is assisted by an appropriately formed council.  As CFE presently marches on towards the completion its 35th year, it has developed a worldwide alumni base. Many of its former students hold responsible positions in prestigious organizations and universities such as ISRO, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, IIT, DRDO, Washington University, Nevada state university, CSIRO, and Indian Patents office, amongst others.

As part of its human resource development programme, CSIR-CECRI runs a unique B.Tech. course in Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering supported by the Anna University. The B.Tech (Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering) course was formulated by reputed people in the industry and academia, and covered all important aspects of Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering. The coursework was designed with the vision of creating specialized Electrochemical Engineers for the future, and is being constantly upgraded to keep up with recent trends. This one of a kind program is unique to CECRI, and no other institute offers an undergraduate course in hemical and Electrochemical Engineering.  The B.Tech course of CECRI has now turned into a sort of label that most institutes worldwide look upon with reverence, and is treated equivalent to that of a technic CSIR-CECRI. The B.Tech (Chemical & Electrochemical Engineering) program at CECRI is NBA Accredited.

CSIR-CECRI is the largest institute in South Asia dedicated to research and innovations focusing on Fuel cells, Marine Corrosion and offshore corrosion testing. in electrochemical science and technologies.  In living up to its raison d'etre, the institute works on a gamut of problems covering all facets of Electrochemical Science and Technology covering Corrosion Science and Engineering, Electrochemical Materials Science, Electrochemical Power Sources, Electrochemical Pollution Control, Fundamental Electro Chemistry, Electro metallurgy, Industrial Metal Finishing, and Nanoscale Electrochemistry.  CSIR-CECRI’s unique capabilities in the research areas of Corrosion and Material Protection (CMP), Electrochemical Power Sources (EPS), Electrochemical Process Engineering (EPE), Electrodics & Electro-Catalysis (EEC), Electro-Organic & Materials Electrochemistry (EME), and Electroplating & Metal Finishing (EMF) are leveraged to cater the societal, industrial, and strategic needs. Moreover, this institute having a glorious past has become more relevant now and for the future, considering the importance of the Electrochemical devices and processes for Energy Harvesting & Storage and Mitigating Environmental issues.

CECRI Madras Unit, based in Chennai, is a satellite unit of pioneering CSIR-Electrochemical Research Institute of Karaikudi. Since 10 years, Unit is dedicated towards the fundamental driven science concept to product delivery and also cater the needs of many industry driven research programmes sponsored by various agencies including government bodies and private sectors. CECRI Madras Unit has all the sophisticated electrochemical characterization facilities for basic research to understand the catalytic activity of the electrocatalysts, ionic conductivity of the membranes and fuel cell test station and assembly units for testing cells and stacks of various capacities which will bring benefits to the Environment, Energy Security and Economic growth.

CSIR-CECRI's activities are directed towards the development of new and improved products and processes as well as novel innovations in electrochemical technology. A number of investigations are run in collaboration with laboratories from within and outside India. Agencies that tap CSIR-CECRI's expertise include small and big private industrial houses as well as government agencies such as atomic energy, defence, environment, space, surface transport, and ocean development. Apart from engaging in basic and applied research, CSIR-CECRI assists the industry by conducting surveys and undertaking consultancy projects. The institute also conducts short-term refresher courses for the benefit of industrial houses and educational institutions.

Researchers and doctoral students from this part of the country make good use of the excellent library as well as the analytical and characterisation facilities at the institute. CSIR-CECRI also organizes national and international conferences for the dissemination of scientific knowledge with the help of an independent professional organization of Society for Advancement of Electrochemical Science and Technology (SAEST).  It is also alive to societal obligations and participates in activities such as entrepreneur development and CSIR's youth development programme. CSIR-CECRI is a recipient of several technology awards for its telling service to both Indian and Global industries.

Today, the world is facing an alarming energy crisis due to the dwindling of non-renewable resources such as oil and coal, and there is the bigger threat of a rise in CO2 levels, pollution and global warming. In this global scenario, CSIR-CECRI will synergise its R&D efforts in providing solutions (Clean Energy, Clean water, Clean air) through electrochemical science & technology. To say that the CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute is the mainstay of electrochemical industry in India is to state the obvious.

Many of the CECRI alumni hold responsible positions in prestigious organizations and universities such as ISRO, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, IIT, DRDO, Washington University, Nevada State University, CSIRO, and Indian Patents office, amongst others. The B.Tech course of CECRI has now turned into a sort of label that most institutes worldwide look upon with reverence, and is treated equivalent to that of a technical degree at the IITs.

Some Highlights of Central Electro Chemical Research Institute, Karaikudi

Why to Choose Central Electro Chemical Research Institute, Karaikudi ?

• Premier National Research Institute

  • CECRI is one of the largest laboratories under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India.

  • Established in 1948, it is dedicated to advanced research, innovation, and education in electrochemistry.

• Unique & Specialized Academic Program

  • Offers a B.Tech in Chemical & Electrochemical Engineering, one of its kind in India, affiliated with Anna University.

  • Provides training, internships, and research opportunities in specialized electrochemical fields like batteries, fuel cells, corrosion science, nanotechnology, and energy storage.

• Strong Research & Industry Linkages

  • CECRI conducts high-end R&D projects in collaboration with industries, defense, energy, and automobile sectors.

  • Students get exposure to real-world problems and industrial solutions.

• Excellent Facilities

  • State-of-the-art research laboratories, pilot plants, testing centres, CAD facilities, and a large library.

  • Wi-Fi enabled campus, sports, medical care, and seminar halls for overall student development.

• Hostel & Student Amenities

  • Separate boys’ and girls’ hostels with mess facilities.

  • Health centre, recreation, gym, sports, and library support academic and personal growth.

• Scholarships & Financial Aid

  • Access to government scholarships (SC/ST/BC/MBC, etc.) and alumni scholarships for deserving students.

  • Support for economically weaker students to continue studies.

• Career Opportunities & Placements

  • Dedicated placement cell connects students to industries in corrosion engineering, batteries, electrochemical devices, coatings, energy storage, and manufacturing.

  • Many graduates pursue higher studies in IITs, IISc, and reputed universities abroad.

• Government Recognition & Credibility

  • CECRI is a constituent laboratory of CSIR, giving it strong credibility.

  • The B.Tech degree is affiliated to Anna University and AICTE approved, ensuring national recognition.

Vision & Mission of Central Electro Chemical Research Institute, Karaikudi

Vision

To be a pioneering global R&D Institute in electrochemical science and technologies addressing societal and industrial needs through translational research

Mission

To achieve excellence in electrochemical science and technologies through R&D efforts aligning with national missions and sustainable development goals in the areas of energy conversion & storage, environmental protection, corrosion mitigation, healthcare, specialty chemicals and materials

Admission Procedure

CSIR Central ElectroChemical Research Institute Sivaganga courses are offered at UG level. There are 1 courses offered at CSIR Central ElectroChemical Research Institute Sivaganga. The courses are offered in fields like Engineering. CSIR Central ElectroChemical Research Institute Sivaganga courses includes B.Tech. The popular courses at CSIR Central ElectroChemical Research Institute Sivaganga is B.Tech.

Admission Criteria

B.Tech Admission 2025

CSIR- Central ElectroChemical Research Institute offers a unique B. Tech course in Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering. Candidates seeking admission in B.Tech course should have passed the Higher Secondary Examination (Academic) – Class XII as per the TNEA 2021 norms prescribed by Anna University. The admission will be on the basis of Tamil Nadu Engineering Admission (TNEA) rank list.

Eligibility

B.Tech (Chemical and Electrochemical Engineering) - Passed HSC class XII or equivalent exam

Application Process 2025

• The candidates need to apply online on the official website of the institute.
  
• Candidates should download the application form and upload duly filled application form online.
  
• Allotment will be made based on the merit list.
  

Placement

The college maintains a good placement ratio, with Sterlite leading in providing numerous job opportunities and competitive packages. Additionally, several other companies show interest in the college, offering good packages to graduates.

Recruiters

1. Amara Raja Batteries., Tirupathi
2. Amco Batteries., Bangalore
3. Ashok Leylan, Tamil Nadu
4. Asian paints, India
5. Atotech India pvt. Ltd., Haryana
6. Base Batteries Ltd., Himachal
7. Berger Paints, India
8. Bharat Electronics Ltd., Pune
9. BPL PTI Chemicals India, Karnataka
10. BLOOM batteries,Mumbai
11. Chemfab Alkalis Ltd., Pondicherry
12. Continental Device India Ltd., New Delhi
13. Corroseal Ltd, Chennai
14. Corr Tech International Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad
15. Crompton Greaves Ltd., Mumbai
16. Dalmia Cement (Bharat Ltd), Tamil Nadu
17. Deeya Energy, New Delhi
18. DuPont India Ltd., Hyderabad
19. TUDOR batteries
20. Eveready Industries Ltd., Kolkatta
21. Exide Batteries, Hosur
22. Enarka, Bangalore
23. ENERCON India ltd , Daman
24. Gabriel India Ltd., Pune
25. GFL, Haryana
26. Graver and Weil India Ltd., Mumbai
27. HBL Nife Power Systems, Hyderabad
28. HEMA Pvt Ltd., Hosur
29. Hindustan Lever Ltd., Bangalore
30. HOV General Trading and Contracting Co., Kuwait
31. Hyderabad Electroplating Works, Hyderabad
32. IEC Fabchem, Chennai
33. Infosys Tech, Bangalore
34. International Paints, Bangalore
35. Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd, Bangalore
36. Kirloskar Brothers Ltd., Pune
37. Luminous Power Technologies Ltd, Himachal
38. Madras Electroplaters, Chennai
39. MALCO, Mettur
40. Max India, Bangalore
41. Micropack India Ltd, Bangalore
42. Minda Batteries, New Delhi
43. NED Energy Ltd., Hyderabad
44. NOCIL India Ltd, Navi Mumbai
45. Okaya Power Ltd, Himachal
46. Power Batteries, Jammu
47. Raychem RPG Ltd., Mumbai
48. Reem Batteries, Muscat
49. Shan Poornam Metals, Mumbai
50. Sterlite Copper Ltd.,Silvasa
51. Sterlite Industries, Tuticorin
52. Su-Kam Batteries, Bangalore
53. Sundaram Fasteners, Chennai
54. TAFE Power Source, Chennai
55. Technip Energies, India
56. Thermax, Mumbai
57. TVS, Hosur
58. Unicore, Bangalore
59. Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions, Bengaluru
60. Virya Batteries, Mumbai
61. Wipro Electroplaters, Bangalore

Scholarship

CSIR- Central ElectroChemical Research Institute Scholarship 2023

1. BC/MBC/DNC Students Scholarship

• Post Matric
  
• Free Education
  

2. SC/ST/SCA Students Scholarship

• Post Matric
  
• Free Education
  

3. CM AWARD Merit Schlorship

Central Electro Chemical Research Institute, Karaikudi

CSIR-CECRI Guest house was constructed in the year of 1974 with the provision of 38 Air-Conditioned rooms, a spacious Parlour, a “Sitravai” (Small Meeting Room), Dinning Areas - i. Adisil, ii. Arusuvaiagam, a Business centre, and in addition to that Television and Hot water facilities are provided in all the rooms. Five types of Quarters accommodation are available for our permanent & temporary staff members and it will be allotted according to their entitlement based on grade pay. For Scientists, single and double room apartment houses are available.

CSIR-CECRI Departmental Canteen (CDC), run on 'no-profit, no-loss' basis, caters to the basic need of the staff members of the institute in a healthy, hygienic and tasteful way. CDC is equipped with modern facilities for cooking and has a staff strength of about 15 (2 cooks, 7 staff members and 6 supporting staff). CDC is managed by a Canteen Committee comprising of staff members of CSIR-CECRI.

CSIR-CECRI Health Centre provides medical facilities to staff members and their dependants, pensioners and their dependants, Research Scholars and B.Tech. Students. The Centre has a pharmacy and is well equipped with facilities for out-patient treatment, lab investigations, ECG, X-ray, I.V. fluids, nebulizer and an ambulance equipped with oxygen cylinder and emergency drugs. The entire functioning is being computerised with the implementation of AROGYA software.

Recently, a gymnasium for the benefit of staff members and their wards, students and scholars was inaugurated in CSIR-CECRI Campus by the Finance Officer, CSIR. The gym inhouses traditional as well as modern equipments. Separate timings have been formulated for the benefit of all categories of staff members. As it is located in the vicinity of play ground area, the gym is regularly used by players as well staff members.

An extension counter of the Alagappa College Campus (AC Campus) Branch of the Indian Bank, Karaikudi located within CSIR-CECRI Campus provides banking services. The timings are 10.15 AM to 1.45 PM beyond which the facilities at AC Campus branch can be utilized. As the extension counter is an exclusive facility, the service is always prompt.

CSIR-CECRI'S Central Instrumentation Facility

The Central Instrumenatation Facility (CIF), at CSIR - CECRI, Karaikudi, has been created with an objective of providing all analytical facility under one roof in order to enable for the scientific community to carry out measurements for R&D work in various areas of science and technology.CIF hosts various sophisticated instruments which cater the need of cutting edge research in many areas of modern science and technology. It also offers its users, a wide range of analytical methods/techniques for chemical /material analysis testing/characterization facility

Transport

On-campus transport (buses etc) is not prominently described; likely limited / dependent on students arranging themselves or institute shuttles if any.