Sreelakshmi K

Postgraduate Chemist with a background in polyurethane chemistry, working across both R&D and Quality Control. Focuses on understanding material behavior and chemical systems through a practical, data-driven approach and clear technical documentation. Interested in strengthening technical skills and contributing to research-focused work to build a solid scientific foundation for long-term development.

Quality Control & Product Development Specialist at Pearl Polyurethane Systems (2025-04 – Present)

• Developed and optimized rigid, flexible, semi-rigid, integral skin, and specialty polyurethane formulations for insulation and industrial applications.
• Evaluated PU systems using HFO, HFC, HCFC-141B, cyclopentane, n-pentane and other blowin agent technologies
• Conducted foam reaction profile testing including Cream Time (CT), Gel Time (GT), Tack-Free Time (TFT), Rise Time (RT), and Gel Strength (GS).
• Performed free-rise density (FRD), viscosity, and specific gravity measurements.
• Evaluated finished foam properties including density (overall & core), compressive strength, thermal conductivity, dimensional stability, and closed-cell content.
• Designed and modified polyurethane formulations based on customer specifications, application requirements, and performance objectives.
• Supported product scale-up, in-house trials, troubleshooting, and continuous formulation improvements in collaboration with production and technical teams.
• Recorded experimental data, prepared technical reports, and compared results against target specifications.
• Performed in-process and final quality inspection of polyurethane systems according to product specifications.
• Evaluated processing characteristics, reaction profiles, and physical properties to verify product conformity prior to batch release.
• Conducted laboratory testing including density, viscosity, specific gravity and moisture analysis, to verify product conformity prior to batch release.
• Inspected production samples for visual defects, pressure marks, surface irregularities, and overall product quality.
• Verified incoming raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products against customer specifications, work orders, and internal quality standards before batch release.
• Investigated out-of-specification (OOS) results, supported root cause analysis, and coordinated with production to implement corrective actions.
• Maintained QC records, inspection reports, laboratory documentation, and batch testing records while ensuring traceability and compliance.
• Ensured laboratory equipment calibration, test accuracy, and adherence to established quality procedures.

MSc in Biopolymer Science – Cochin University of Science and Technology (2021 – 2024)