The 1600-year old Delhi iron pillar has attracted the attention of archaeologists, metallurgists and corrosion scientists for its excellent resistance to corrosion. The book details new insights on the Delhi iron pillar based on the researches of the author. The identities of the patron Chandra and the original location Vishnupadagiri of the pillar have been critically analyzed. The engineering details of the pillar, including its decorative bell capital, have been highlighted. The manufacturing method of the pillar has been elucidated. The important aspect of corrosion resistance of the pillar has been discussed in light of a detailed characterization of the pillar’s protective passive surface film. Several metallurgical aspects concerning ancient Indian iron have been presented. The book concludes with a discussion of other large forge welded ancient iron objects in India.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR R. Balasubramaniam
Professor R. Balasubramaniam has vast experience in teaching corrosion and research activities related to materials – hydrogen interactions, corrosion, oxidation and failure analysis. After graduating in metallurgical engineering from the Banaras Hindu University in 1984 with a gold medal, he completed his PhD in materials engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, USA in 1990. He has, since then, been teaching and conducting research at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur in the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering. He is the author of more than 120 technical papers in international and national scientific engineering journals. He is the recipient of several prestigious awards like the BHU University Gold Medal (1984), BHU Ghandhy Gold Medal (1984), Indian Institute of Metals Vishwa Bharathi Award (1984), Indian National Science Academy Young Scientist Award (1993), Humboldt Fellowship from the German Government (1996), Materials Research Society of India Medal (1999) and Metallurgist of the Year (1999) awarded by the Government of India.
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