Samarendra Nayak

Experienced Technical Application Specialist / Laboratory Chemist with over 12+ years of expertise in metals & minerals analysis, polymer compounding, titanium dioxide applications, QC, and R&D operations across India and Saudi Arabia. Strong background in laboratory management, QA/QC systems, ISO 17025 compliance, formulation development, and process optimization. Proven ability to manage high-throughput lab operations, improve product quality, and support production and customer requirements through technical excellence and continuous improvement practices.

Technical Application Specialist / Chemist - Tronox Saudi Industry Ltd - Yanbu, Saudi Arabia

(2016-06)

• Supervise shift-based laboratory operations ensuring timely sample analysis and reporting.
• Manage high-volume sample workflows and maintain turnaround time (TAT).
• Perform and oversee analysis using XRF, AAS, ICP techniques.
• Implement QA/QC systems including CRMs, blanks, duplicates, and control charts.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 17025 standards and audit requirements.
• Lead QMS and 5S implementation, improving lab efficiency and compliance.
• Conduct product trials (T-595, T-826, T-134 TF) to enhance quality and performance.
• Monitor parameters such as DB L, b, dispersion, and elemental properties.
• Coordinate with plant units (U-300/U-400) to reduce off-spec production.
• Execute global R&R projects (brightness improvement, resin replacement).
• Provide technical support to customers and production teams.
• Handle non-conformities, deviations, and CAPA implementation.
• Train and mentor laboratory personnel.

Application Chemist - Crystal Global - Yanbu, Saudi Arabia

(2013-06 - 2016-06)

• Conducted analytical testing using XRF/XRD and wet chemistry methods.
• Improved color stability and durability of polymer products.
• Performed polymer performance studies and competitor benchmarking.
• Handled technical service, customer complaints, and root cause analysis.
• Installed Powder Flow Tester and developed SOPs.
• Conducted dispersion analysis and resolved quality failures.
• Coordinated advanced analysis (SEM/TEM).
• Prepared technical reports for internal and customer use.

Lab Engineer – Cum – Chemist - Energya Plastics - Rabigh, Saudi Arabia

(2011 - 2013)

• Developed PVC cable sheathing and wire coating compounds.
• Formulated XLPE compounds using silane cross-linking technology.
• Performed testing and evaluation of cable-grade materials.

QA/QC Engineer - APPL Industries Ltd - Pune, India

• Developed engineering plastic blends and alloys.
• Performed color matching for automotive applications.
• Conducted quality testing and reporting.

Technical Officer – QC & R&D - Rajiv Plastics Ltd - India

• Managed QC and R&D for additives and color masterbatches.
• Supported export manufacturing for 50+ countries.

Post-Graduate Diploma - Plastic Processing & Testing - CIPET

Bachelor's Degree - Chemistry (Honours) - Fakir Mohan University

CHSE (Science) - U.N. College, Soro

High School Certificate - BSE Odisha