Balwant Rai Puri obtained PhD (1940) from University of Panjab, Lahore. He worked as Reader in Physical Chemistry (1952-62), Professor in Physical Chemistry (1962-74), Professor, UGC Retired Teachers’ Scheme (1974-77), Honorary Professor (1977-79), all at Panjab University; and Research Director, India Carbon Ltd (1981-83).

Academic and Research Achievements: Working in the areas: physical chemistry and surface chemistry, Puri did significant research on the properties of capillary condensates, surface chemistry of carbons, catalytic reactions of industrial and environmental interest and physico-chemical behaviour of proteins. He contributed many chapters to standard works. His chapter “Surface Complexes on Carbon” in Chemistry and Physics of Carbon (Marcel Dekker, 1970) is considered by peers as authoritative.

Other Contributions: Puri served as Member of the American Carbon Society.

Awards and Honours: Professor Puri was Fellow of the Royal Institute of Chemistry, London and Indian Chemical Society; and Founder President of the Indian Carbon Society.