CSIR-SERC signs MoU with NATRAX to collaborate on Sustainable Material Design

chennai: the csir-structural engineering research centre (csir-serc) has signed a memorandum of understanding (mou) with national automotive test tracks (natrax), madhya pradesh, to collaborate on sustainable material design, development of eco-friendly materials for structures and tracks, knowledge exchange, and training initiatives.csir-serc, a premier national laboratory under csir, specializes in the analysis, design, and testing of structures and structural components. the centre conducts r&d to develop indigenous technologies by leveraging india's natural resources, generating inventions, patents, and processes that can be transferred to industry for societal and commercial benefits.natrax, operating under the national automotive board, ministry of heavy industries, is one of india's largest automotive testing and certification centres. spread across 2,960 acres, it features 14 specialized test tracks, laboratory setups for electric vehicle and adas testing, and is accredited for vehicle certification and safety equipment testing.the partnership aims to advance environmentally responsible technologies and practices. the mou provides a framework for joint research, development, and capacity-building programs, with the scope to explore additional collaborative areas in the future.dr. n. anandavalli, director of csir-serc, noted, “the degree of mutual interest is so great that considerable advantage may be gained from collaborative efforts.” dr. manish jaiswal, director of natrax, added, “we look forward to leveraging our combined expertise to drive impactful solutions in sustainable infrastructure.”the mou was signed on 8th october 2025 by dr. n. anandavalli and dr. manish jaiswal. present at the event were dr. k. sathish kumar, chief scientist and head, bkmd; mr. tejpal mahajan, hod-proving ground (civil & mechanical); and ms. tulika mazumdar, group lead, powertrain & academic collaboration.