Civil Engineering Research Club (CERC) is a platform for the full-time Ph.D., M.Phil. and M.Sc.Eng. students to give recognition for their work and it also motivates students to carry out their research in an efficient and effective manner while building up a friendly environment among the students and staff. Providing a peer-learning environment to open up possibilities for collaborative research is one of the intended outcomes.
Presentations
Date | 24th April 2023 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Seminar Room 3 |
Moderator | Prof. K. K. Wijesundara |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Mr. Sushan Mayuranga Ph.D. Candidate (Structural Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
The shear resistance at the sleeper-ballast interface plays a major role in maintaining proper track stability in
ballasted railway tracks. The application of under sleeper pads (USPs) at the sleeper-ballast interface of ballasted
tracks enhances track stability while reducing track deterioration. Nevertheless, further improving track stability
is imperative when ballasted rail corridors are subjected to faster and heavier trains. Hence, this study proposes
the novel use of textured under sleeper pads (TUSPs) to enhance track stability by improving shear resistance at
the sleeper–ballast interface. The results of large-scale direct shear tests and discrete element method (DEM)
simulations reveal that TUSPs improve the sleeper-ballast shear resistance by about 57% and apparent peak
friction angle value by about 11% over conventional USPs |
|
Mr. Dhanushka Madusanka M.Phil. Candidate (Transportation & Highway Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Estimating the passenger waiting time for public buses in rural roads | The travel time, including the waiting time, is a key parameter for the mode choice of commuters. This study is
focused to investigate the average waiting time of a passenger for a bus on selected rural roads. According to the
results, it was found that the average waiting time for a single bus route is around ten minutes while it is around
five minutes for the road segments where two bus routes are operating. Also, it has been identified that the
operational cost of a bus in the selected route is 463.66 LKR/km and the load factor of a bus is 1.52. Furthermore,
it has been identified that to avoid the overloading of the buses, the bus fare has to be increased from 21.8% and
the headway between the buses has to be reduced from 3 minutes |
Ms. Nuwani Jayakody Ph.D. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Road maintenance optimization using a probabilistic approach with calibration of field monitoring data | A well-maintained transportation infrastructure system is an indicator of a well-functioning economy. Road
degradation is often considered to be unpredictable and frequent maintenance activities are implemented
requiring a huge amount of funding and causing inconveniences for road users. Despite the huge annual
investments on this critical infrastructure, practitioners are still unable to adopt the optimum maintenance
strategy due to lack of knowledge on cost over socio-economic benefit. This study proposes an optimum
pavement maintenance strategy and life-cycle cost prediction by analysing monitoring data collected over 15
years using a probabilistic pavement degradation framework based on roughness (IRI). The outcome of this
study could be used in pavement management systems to compare and rank the available intervention options
and to select the optimum solution considering both cost and benefit |
Date | 16th January 2023 | |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. | |
Venue | Via ZOOM | Online (
ZOOM Link ) Meeting ID: Passcode: |
Moderator | Dr. S. K, Navaratnarajah |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Mr. H. M. P. Wijeyawardana Ph.D. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Using biochar as a partial replacement of Portland cement in cementitious materials is a promising solution to
mitigate negative environmental impacts. However, these studies are primarily focused only on the mechanical
properties of composites. Therefore, this study aims at evaluating the effectiveness of biochar addition on the
heavy metal removability of cement paste coupled with evaluation of the compressive strength. A range of
characterization techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis
(EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) are used to
characterize the synthesized cement biochar adsorbents and to identify the main mechanisms of removal of Cu,
Pb and Zn using the synthesized adsorbents |
|
Mr. M. Jenothan MSc. Candidate (Structural Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Strength and ductility evaluation of thin-walled steel hollow piers under lateral cyclic loading | Thin-walled steel piers attract most urban construction due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and smaller
cross-sections than their counterpart concrete piers. However, its high width-to-thickness ratio makes it
vulnerable to local or overall buckling. So, this research aims to determine the lateral performance indices of
hollow steel box columns that fail due to local and overall interaction instability when subjected to constant
compressive axial force and cyclic lateral loading. First, the effect of each pier's parameters, such as
width-to-thickness ratio, slenderness ratio, axial load, stiffener rigidity, and lateral loading patterns on the cyclic
inelastic behaviour is explored, and the limit values of various parameters for the required strength and
ductility demand are also discussed. Furthermore, the causes of crucial failure types, including buckling and
extremely low cycle fatigue failure, are discussed. Finally, empirical equations are proposed for stiffened steel
box columns' ultimate strength and ductility capacities |
Mr. Zimar Ph.D. Candidate, RMIT, Melbourne, Australia |
Sustainable fly ash-based soil stabilization for unsealed mine haul roads | Mine haul roads are a significant part of the mining, and a higher amount is spent on the maintenance of haul
roads. Due to the heavy truck loading, haul roads often undergo large rutting which subsequently causes higher
operation cost and low production rate. These roads are usually built as unpaved, making them highly
susceptible to moisture degradation. However, haul roads are not designed to resist for different climatic
conditions in practice. In this study, the stabilisation approach for mine haul road subgrade will be investigated,
incorporating saturation effect. Subgrade material will be stabilised using fly ash based additives under different
saturation level. Besides, the numerical analysis will be carried out to understand the settlement and stress-strain
variation during the stabilisation process under monotonic and cyclic loadings |
Date | 14th November 2022 | |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. | |
Venue | Via ZOOM | Online (
ZOOM Link ) Meeting ID: Passcode: |
Moderator | Dr. M.C.M. Nasvi |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Ms. Samanthi Wijerathna MSc. Eng. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Landfill leachate is complex in nature, hence, a single conventional treatment unit is insufficient to remove the
contaminants, especially the colour from leachate, to achieve discharge standards. Chitosan, has proven to be a
prominent adsorbent due to its abundancy, enhanced adsorption capacity and efficient contaminant removal.
Hence, an Anoxic-Oxic Membrane Bioreactor coupled with a tertiary adsorption unit composed of
glutaraldehyde crosslinked - protonated chitosan was tested for removal of colour from A/O MBR treated
landfill leachate permeate. Results manifested a colour removal efficiency of 96±3.8 % obtained at optimum
conditions along with an adsorption capacity of 123.8 Pt-Co/g suggesting that modified chitosan can be used as
an environmentally friendly biosorbent in a tertiary unit for colour removal in a treatment system used to treat
landfill leachate |
|
Ms. Mathuranthagi Sivanesarajah MSc. Eng. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Colloid Facilitated Transport of Agrochemicals in CKDu affected areas in Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka is highly affected by Chronic Kidney Disease unknown etiology (CKDu) especially the North Central
Province (NCP). There has been much less studies based on Colloid Facilitated Transport (CFT) of
agrochemicals especially on Phosphorus which is highly used as a fertilizer in NCP. From past studies it has
been found that P loading in NCP is 10 ppm. Samples have been collected from Madawachya and
Horowpathana as High Endemic and Low endemic regional soil samples and have been tested for the basic
properties and colloid stability. Column experiments will be done with different ionic strengths with the
constant Phosphorus concentration. The colloid stability analysis results showed the stability is high when the
pH is high and the ionic strength is low |
Mr. Kasun Dharmasiri Ph.D. Candidate (Computational Science and High Performance Computing Engineering), University of Tokyo |
Formulation and Verification of a Novel Implicit Stress Integration Algorithm based on Plastic Consistency Parameter | Often analytical or semi-analytical solutions are not available for the stress integration of complex models. Thus,
efficient, and robust numerical integration schemes are required to find the material state during plastic
deformations. The motivation of this study was to formulate an implicit numerical integration scheme as an
extension of the Cutting Plane Method (CPM) complete with a consistent elasto-plastic tangent operator for
second order accuracy at the structure level iterations. The proposed scheme’s features are discussed in relation
to the Closest Point Projection Method (CPPM) and CPM. It can be easily implemented in existing finite element
analysis frameworks since the required first and second order derivatives are similar to those required in CPPM.
Several numerical tests are presented exploring the feasibility of the proposed scheme |
Date | 19th September 2022 | |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. | |
Venue | Via ZOOM | Online (
ZOOM Link ) Meeting ID:677 6557 2358 Passcode:CERC#s10 |
Moderator | Dr. (Mrs) W.C.T.K. Gunawardana |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Mr. Rajika Karangoda M.Sc. Candidate (Environmental and Water Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
This groundwater quality study in Ratnapura district was carried out on two fronts: first, by analysing the data
that was already available, and second, by gathering and measuring a fresh set of samples and analysing them
separately. The main focus of the analysing of the available data set is to develop Water Quality Index (WQI)
for groundwater quality in Ratnapura district with respect to drinking water quality standards. In addition,
other analytical methods were utilized, such as multivariate statistical analysis, correlation matrix, etc. The new
set of data was mainly analysed for the spatial distribution of hardness due to the prevailing issue of
groundwater hardness in parts of the district. The results revealed fascinating aspects of groundwater quality
in the area that have never been recorded before |
|
Mr. Manoharan Kesawavan Ph.D. Candidate (Materials Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
A Systematic Comparison on the Work-related Skills of Sri Lankan Construction Labour with Foreign Labour | The labour efforts are the lifeblood of construction operations. But, the construction sector of many countries has
been facing various challenges due to labour skill shortages. This study attempted to examine the work-related
skills of Sri Lankan labour against foreign labour methodically. Using comprehensive qualitative approaches, the
skills of Sri Lankan construction labour were systematically compared with foreign labour, particularly Chinese,
Indian, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Saudi Arabian, Malaysian and Korean labour forces were considered in a pair-wise
comparison analysis process. Statement categories and codes were developed to perform this qualitative
comparison. The overall results display the detailed cross-section of the Sri Lankan labour skills under the
cognitive, transferable and self-management skill categories. Kappa statistics resulted in the inter-rater reliability of
these findings at a substantial level. The study outcomes lead to a wide range of implications and future scopes on
upgrading the industrial and institutional processes in detail |
Mr. Lahiru Lindamulla Ph.D. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Treatment of mature landfill leachate in tropical climate using membrane bioreactors with different configurations | Membrane
bioreactors with different configurations were employed to treat some of those leachates. An aerobic
MBR (AMBR) system was operated in three Phases. In the first Phase, an AMBR alone, in the second Phase an
anaerobic reactor followed by an anoxic reactor and an AMBR and in the third Phase an anoxic reactor followed
by an AMBR were operated. The three MBR configurations removed more than 93%, 64.8% and 59% of BOD5,
COD and total nitrogen respectively |
Date | 11th July 2022 | |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. | |
Venue | Via ZOOM | Online (
ZOOM Link ) Meeting ID: 684 3417 9093 Passcode: 4+8TVeza |
Moderator | Dr. N.G.P.B. Neluwala |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Ms. Tharindi Lakshani M.Phil. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering) |
Paddy ecosystems constitute a major source of greenhouse gases (GHG), dominated by methane (CH4) and
nitrous oxide (N2O). Typical water-logged conditions favor simultaneous production of CH4 and N2O in paddy
fields, while their transport and subsequent emission across soil-plant-atmosphere continuum is primarily
diffusion-controlled. This study hypotheses the presence of a “critical windows of water and gas diffusivity” in
paddy soils. Since the critical windows are regulated by soil and atmospheric controls, it’s essential to
understand the controlling factors and develop mechanisms to constrain the windows. This study will propose
the best management practices can adopt to avoid the critical windows and minimize GHG emissions and
develop predictive models to estimate fluxes from gas diffusivity |
|
Mr. Thilina Gurusinghe M.Phil. Candidate (Water Resources Engineering) |
Reservoir Operational Planning to Improve the Water Productivity: Kalu Ganga - Moragahakanda Reservoir Project (K-M Reservoir Project) | K-M reservoirs were initially proposed in 1968 under Mahaweli Master Plan as major storage reservoirs in
Mahaweli Scheme. This reservoir project was started in 2007, and these reservoirs were constructed in Amban
Ganga catchment, the largest sub-catchment of the Mahaweli Basin. These reservoirs and connecting tunnel
would increase the water availability in Mahaweli Basin by retaining unutilized catchment inflows in Amban
Ganga and Kalu Ganga rivers to provide agricultural, drinking water supply and hydropower benefits. An
efficient reservoir operation will be essential to maximise the benefits while minimizing the spillages and
ensuring dam safety. Hydrological modelling tools such as SWAT and reservoir simulation models such as
HECResSim are convenient for identifying inflows and evaluating reservoir operation patterns that are
mandatory for developing effective and efficient reservoir operation plans |
Ms. Akila Wijethunge M.Phil. Candidate (Structural Engineering) |
Numerical Investigation of Lateral Distortional Buckling in Steel-Concrete Composite Beams | The Lateral Distortional Buckling (LDB), another mode of instability in steel-concrete composite (SCC) beams, is
not fully understood by the structural engineering research and design community, and therefore further
investigations are needed for better understanding. This research focuses on a numerical investigation to study
different influential parameters on the LDB behavior of SCC beams. In standard codes of practice, the LDB
phenomenon in SCC beams is commonly classified as a type of Lateral Torsional Buckling (LTB), leading to
conservative designs. Hence, the current standard code-based estimations of ultimate resistance to LDB need to
be compared with numerical findings. Finally, it is expected to suggest possible improvements to the design
practice that lead to safe and economical designs |
Date | 09th May 2022 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Via ZOOM |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Mr. Madushan Rathnayaka Ph.D. Candidate (Structural Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Geopolymer concrete (GPC) presents a potentially viable solution for sustainable construction. GPC
manufacturing and testing procedures, on the other hand, are time-consuming and expensive, which may hinder
the growth of mix design and GPC implementation. Machine Leering might be a helpful tool for studying and
anticipating GPC features to save time and money. In this study, a database will be created by conducting a
thorough review of peer-reviewed papers. Following that, machine learning techniques will be utilized to
determine the best input parameters for predicting the mechanical properties of GPC. Then the model will be
optimized by refining parameters that result in the best predictions for the test data. Finally, the accuracy of the
model will be tested using statistical measures |
|
Ms. Thevega Thevakumar Ph.D. Candidate (Structural Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Novel Uses of Glass Recycling Technology for Sustainable Civil Engineering Applications | Recycled glass has been used in the construction industry for several decades as sustainable construction
material. In this research, claddings are proposed in buildings as one of the applications with recycled glass. Due
to the increased claddings demand using conventional materials, researchers pay more attention on identifying
alternative cladding products since recently. Also, external claddings have been identified as critical component
in buildings than before due to catastrophic fire incidents. Present day engineers seek building claddings with
improved fire and mechanical performance. This study provides a knowledge capture on fire and mechanical
assessment for claddings which should satisfy detailed product compliance before reaching to the market and
benefits industries and scientific community to understand the compliance requirement of claddings in
facilitation of introducing new products to the market |
Mr. Shamendra Egodawela Ph.D. Candidate (Materials Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Structural Defect Detection and Characterization Using High Resolution Image Processing | Structural defects in critical bridge members can be detrimental to the longevity of civil structures and could spell
severe repercussions to human life and cause extensive financial loss. Trained professionals risk their lives every
day to inspect areas with low accessibility, detect defects at an early enough stage and monitor them over time.
With remarkable advancements in mobile robotics, edge computing hardware, and imaging sensor technology,
computer vision is revolutionizing structural health monitoring. The work conducted focusses on studying the
feasibility of different imaging systems including visible light spectra and multi spectral spectra to detect and
quantify defects. We suggest how laboratory experimentation conducted currently using stationary cameras can
be extended to mobile UAV platforms for effective structural health monitoring of inaccessible structures |
Date | 14th March 2022 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Via ZOOM |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Ms. Nawanjana Maheepala Ph.D. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Geopolymers are a sustainable expansive soil stabilizer compared to Portland cement with respect to greenhouse
gas emissions and energy intensive production processes. This research focuses on developing a novel
geopolymer binder using readily available industrial waste products; fly ash and rice husk ash to improve
expansive road subgrades, and on exploring their short and long term strength gain and durability aspects. The
research comprises of experimental work under which an optimized mix design will be generated, followed by
an in depth analysis of the mechanical, durability and microstructural characteristics of the stabilized soil
mixtures. Next, a full-scale numerical simulation of a stabilized road section will be carried out using ABAQUS
software, which will be used to simulate the stabilized subgrade response for dynamic traffic loads |
|
Ms. Harshani Egodagamage Ph.D. Candidate (Materials Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Use of Aerated Alkali Activated Slag in Prefabricated Modular Construction | Prefabricated modular construction is an upcoming alternative construction technology, which can minimize
construction time and wastages while improving the quality of construction in contrast to the traditional
construction techniques. However, one main construction barrier is the difficulty in transporting and launching
of the modules. Similarly, the use of Portland cement in construction raises has considerable sustainability
concerns. In this light, the focus of this study is to promote the use of aerated mortar produced from waste and
by-products in prefabricated modular walls. Moreover, the project seeks to test the mechanical, fire, thermal and
acoustic performances of the developed aerated wall panel both experimentally and numerically |
Ms. Udaya Sathya Ph.D. Candidate (Structural Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Optimum Data Collection for Structural Integrity Management of Railway Infrastructure | This study proposes an optimum Decision Support System (DSS) that can inform reliable maintenance planning
for railway infrastructure considering major hazards in their operation life. Inaccurate and incomplete asset
information impacts the resilience of railway infrastructure through sub-optimal decisions. Markov Chain rule is
used to develop transition matrices to predict the performance of their operation life. To identify the vulnerable
components in railways, the distributions of probability of failure or any damage state of interest of an asset are
analysed with respect to damage measures. The rapid recovery feature of resilience is advanced by developing
restoration curves concerning time and cost. The improvement in maintenance and restoration measures will save
money and time and provide extended social and economic impacts |
Date | 11th January 2022 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Online ( ZOOM Link ) Meeting ID: 685 9328 8859 Passcode: hw+uf8$H |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Ms. Thilini Gunawardhana MSc. Eng. Candidate (Geo-Environmental Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Many researchers presumed that the CKDu has a strong coexistence with the presence of agrochemicals and
heavy metals in groundwater, which is the prime drinking source of the agricultural community of the North
Central province. These chemicals can potentially migrate to groundwater via soil colloids by a process called
colloid-facilitated transport (CFT). In this study, soil characterization in CKDu-affected areas were done and
colloid-facilitated heavy metal transport is investigated using a series of batch and column experiments.
Observed data will be numerically simulated and parameterized using numerical models to predict
transportability of colloid-mediated agrochemicals to groundwater. Results would provide implications to
unravel the role of colloidal domain and numerical models will forecast the extent and time for CFT of heavy
metals |
|
Mr. Makeswaran Jenothan MSc. Eng. Candidate (Structural Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Lateral Performance of the Thin-Walled Steel Columns by Introducing Axial-Moment Hybrid System | Thin-walled steel piers are becoming more popular in urban areas due to their high strength-to-mass ratio, high
torsional rigidity and shorter construction time. Several studies have been conducted to improve the strength
and ductility of steel piers. However, many techniques still exhibit issues related to recovering seismic resistance
after a large earthquake load. This study suggests an axial-moment hybrid column arrangement with low yield
strength steel to address these challenges. Where the inner column resists the axial load and the replaceable
outer column resists the lateral load. So that following a major earthquake, the damaged outer column can be
quickly replaced, while the inner column can support the axial load. As a result, the seismic capacity of the steel
box pier could be quickly rebuilt without interfering with the bridge's operation following the earthquake |
Ms. Samanthi Wijerathna MSc. Eng. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Improvement of Anoxic-Oxic (A/O) MBR treated landfill leachate, using adsorption technique | Landfill leachate contains toxic contaminants which adversely affect the ecosystem if not properly treated prior to
discharge. Effluent obtained using A/O MBR exceeded the specified discharge standards for organics and colour.
Hence, this work investigates the efficiency of low cost adsorbents, with a focus on removal of organics and color
from the permeate of an A/O MBR system. Biochar derived from sawdust and rice husk are used as base
materials and further modifications are carried out to investigate the increase in the adsorption capacities.
Different analytical techniques are used to characterize the adsorbent materials. Regeneration studies for the
spent adsorbents along with adsorption kinetic and isotherm studies are carried out in identifying adsorption
processes considering all variants of the adsorbents |
Date | 02nd November 2021 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Via ZOOM |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Mr. Sachintha Tennekoon Ph.D. Candidate (Structural Engineering), RMIT UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Rockfill
dams which are commonly found worldwide bear large water bodies and to assess the stability, numerical
methods have been used by previous researchers However, it is commonly observed in literature that the initial
configuration of the Finite Element model has not been defined properly In this research a two dimensional model
of the Kotmale dam is analyzed under two cases considering the construction sequence and without considering
the construction sequence The deformations obtained are compared with the actual deformations obtained from the
site A significant variation can be observed without construction stage analysis whereas when the construction
stages are considered the deformation values agree with the observed readings Furthermore, it is evident that
without construction stage analysis the deformed shape is completely different, and it is incorrect |
|
Ms. Oshini Peramuna Ph.D. Candidate (Hydraulics Engineering), RMIT UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Effect of Available Topographic Maps on Flood Modeling Studies in Sri Lanka | Topography
of a model will highly influence the uncertainty of hydraulic model predictions, thus making it a critical
factor in urban flood modeling studies Currently, there are numerous methods to represent the actual terrain with
topographic data other than traditional geographic surveys Such derived topographic maps are Digital Elevation
Model ( from LiDAR and SRTM based on remote sensing methods However, these models and DEM from
other sources have their own advantages and limitations Thus, main concern lies in improving the detailed
representation of terrain incorporating all these models while balancing requirements and demands The research is
focused on the development of an accurate terrain using different models which possess different characteristics
which would ultimately fuel optimal meshing in modeling software |
Mr. Dhanushka Madusanka M.Phil. Candidate Transporation Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Analysis of Network Features and Choice Behaviour of Passengers for Enhancing Bus Based Public Transport System | Due
to numerous reasons, commuters tend to shift from public transport modes to private modes causing an
increased demand to road network which eventually resulted in numerous issues like congestion, environmental
pollution and accidents While investigating the reasons behind the mode shift, this study investigates the service
intensity in the existing bus transport system in Kandy district by developing an index which covers capacity,
frequency and route coverage As the second stage, the travel behaviour of passengers is assessed using a choice
model based on the utility maximization theory Adjusted likelihood ratio index, t statistics and respective sign of
parameters are used to show the model accuracy The outcome shows that travel time and cost are the significant
factors affecting the mode choice behaviour of commuters |
Date | 07th September 2021 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Via ZOOM |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Dr. Sahan Bandara B.Sc. Eng. (Peradeniya), Ph.D. (Swinburne University, Australia) |
Timber utility poles are extensively
used in Australia for power distribution and telecommunication
networks. There are an estimated 5.3 million timber utility
poles in Australia with an estimated value of more than $12
billion. Due to various deterioration processes, strength
of poles degrades with time, which potentially reduces the
life time of the poles. Failure of poles can have serious
safety concerns and economic implications. Thus, it is crucial
to optimise the life of existing timber poles. This can be
done through application of effective asset management programs
(i.e., inspection, assessment and decision making programs)
that can bring about significant savings to the utilities.
This study aims to improve in-service inspection of timber
poles through the use of non-destructive stress wave propagation
(SWP) methodology. |
|
Ms. Nuwani Jayakody Ph.D. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Prioritization Model for Road Pavement Maintenance Prediction Considering Cross Assets | More than 90% of the Sri Lankan land
transportation is facilitated by roads. Their condition has
been deteriorated mainly by ongoing traffic loads and environmental
loading and the deterioration is further accelerated due to
inefficient road monitoring and management. The cost related
with the maintenance of road infrastructure without considering
the cross-asset interdependency has made an extra burden on
the country's economy. Therefore, the main aim of this project
is to develop a prioritization framework to support fund allocation
decision of asset managers considering an integrated approach
of cross assets (road pavements, bridges and water pipes)
using monitoring data and integrated degradation modelling
tool. The research for the first time, will integrate multiple
assets related to the road network to a strategic prioritization
platform for fund allocation for rehabilitation of roads. |
Mr. Vidura Herath B.Sc. Eng. (Peradeniya), Ph.D. Candidate (NUS, Singapore) |
Hydrologically Informed Machine Learning for Rainfall-Runoff Modelling | Despite showing a great success of applications
in many commercial fields, machine learning (ML) and data
science models in general, show a limited success in scientific
fields, including hydrology. The approach is often criticised
for its lack of interpretability and physical consistency.
This has led to the emergence of new paradigms, such as Theory
Guided Data Science and physics informed machine learning.
The motivation behind such approaches is to improve ML models'
physical meaningfulness by blending existing scientific knowledge
with learning algorithms. Following the same principles, in
this contribution, existing hydrological knowledge is incorporated
to guide the learning algorithms to automatically build readily
interpretable rainfall-runoff models with good prediction
accuracies. Here, Genetic Programming is used as the ML technique. |
Date | 22nd June 2021 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Via ZOOM |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Ms. S. Venuja Ph.D. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), University of Peradeniya [AHEAD Grant] |
Enhancing the performance of ballasted rail tracks using geosynthetic inclusions | Ballasted rail tracks are the most popular
and conventional rail track foundation system. The ballast
layer is the prominent load-bearing layer that distributes
loads from the superstructure (wheel, rail, and sleeper) to
the underlying layers (sub-ballast and subgrade) at a minimal
level through a wider area. Ballast particles breakage with
time due to high cyclic and impact loads is the main crisis
that affects the shear capacity and service life of tracks,
which leads to increased maintenance cost. One of the popular
methods to maintain required shear resistance and decrease
ballast degradation is the adaption of geosynthetics into
the substructure. Thus, this study aims to analyze the improvement
in the degradation and deformation behavior of railway ballast
by the introduction of geosynthetics. |
Mr. M.D.Y.N. Lamawansa M.Phil. Candidate (Structural Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Evaluation of shear critical reinforced concrete element behaviour using different numerical approaches | Predicting the shear behaviour accounting
for the axial-flexure-shear (N-M-V) interaction is vital in
structural analysis. Existing numerical approaches to predict
such responses include sectional analysis, displacement based
finite element analysis (using line elements, area elements
and solid elements) and force-based finite element analysis
(using line elements). In line element formulations the axial
strain and the shear strain distribution along sections are
commonly assumed to be linear and parabolic, respectively.
This study aims to investigate the impact of such kinematic
constraints at the section level towards the response of RC
elements with respect to the initial stiffness, post-cracking
stiffness, load carrying capacity and post-peak ductility.
For this purpose, a selected series of beams was analyzed.
The analysis results suggest that in the nonlinear region,
the section kinematic assumptions in line element formulations
and sectional models results in an underestimation of the
shear strain distribution along the sections and an overestimation
of the axial strains of the tensile zone near the loading
point. |
Ms. J. Ketharani M. Phil. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), University of Peradeniya [NSF-NSFC Project] |
Identification of the fouling mechanism in nanofiltration membranes during the purification of groundwater with high hardness and dissolve organic matter | Nanofiltration (NF) is a pressure-driven
membrane technology, generally applicable for the purification
of hard groundwater. Membrane technology is an appropriate
option for small-scale water treatment applications compared
to conventional treatments for immediate implementation in
remote areas. Such systems have been established in the chronic
kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) prevalence areas
of the North Central Province (NCP), Sri Lanka for groundwater
treatment. The NCP groundwater quality investigations have
revealed that, low molecular weight dissolved organic carbon
(DOC) moieties, ranging from 100-3000 Daltons, are present
in the water and hinder the performances of the membranes
in water treatment plants. The existence of DOC together with
hardness will predominantly affect the membrane performance
via exaggeration of fouling due to the formation of DOC-ion
ternary complexes. Investigation on membrane fouling mechanism
by DOC and hardness will therefore help to identify fouling
mitigation measures and facilitate the design of an effective
NF treatment system. |
Date | 20th April 2021 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | Via ZOOM |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Eng. H.M.P. Wijeyawardana Ph.D. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Urban runoff (UR) is a major nonpoint
source pollutant degrading the water quality of the receiving
waters and heavy metals are identified as a most critical
pollutant group in UR. The limited availability of land poses
tight constrains to common methods adopted for managing UR
like detention and retention basins such as swales, bio retention
basins, settlement ponds and wetlands to improve water quality.
Although evidence of use of pervious concrete in the urban
environment is present, little effort is made towards enhancing
its pollutant removal capability. Therefore, this study will
focus on enhancing the heavy metal removal ability of pervious
concrete using a low-cost adsorbent material, bio char. |
|
Eng. (Ms.) K.S.D.M. Fernando Ph.D. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Fly ash and Rice Husk Ash (RHA) are abundantly
available waste products, principally located in Asian countries.
Currently, a significant proportion of these materials are
disposed of in landfills, lagoons and rivers but offer potential
to utilize in AAC. This study quantifies the environmental
and economic factors by assessing the Greenhouse gas (GHG)
emission, environmental impacts and benefits, and cost analysis
of utilizing fly ash and RHA in AAC compared to Portland Cement
(PC) concrete. Alkaline activator is a key component responsible
for the highest GHG emission, cost and environmental impact
amounts obtained for fly ash geopolymer and blended alkali-activated
concrete compared with PC concrete. Utilization of waste fly
ash and RHA is responsible for providing significant benefits
in terms of fresh and marine water ecotoxicity by avoiding
waste disposal at the dumpsites, rivers, and storage lagoons. |
|
Eng. M. Kesavan Ph.D. Candidate (Materials Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
This study intended to extensively investigate
on the factors influencing labour performance in the Sri Lankan
construction industry. A qualitative study conducted from
a literature review and a series of interviews revealed 117
factors under 6 categories. Subsequently, a questionnaire
survey was carried out among the construction firms in Sri
Lanka and the responses were received from 217 contractors.
Overall, 73 factors were identified as critical based on their
Relative Importance Index values. Lack of training facilities,
delay in salary payments, lack of labour motivation, low salary
for labourers and poor performance evaluation of labour skills
were found as the top five ranking factors. This study also
highlights the need for training programmes that contain the
direct scope of productivity improvement, and identified the
expected programme outcomes for the effective design of new
training programmes to improve the practices on labour operations. |
Date | 16th February 2021 |
Time | 2.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m. |
Venue | E.O.E. Pereira Theatre |
Presenter/s | Research Title | Abstract |
---|---|---|
Eng. L.M.L.K.B. Lindamulla Ph.D. Candidate (Environmental Engineering), RMIT-UOP Split Ph.D. Programme |
Landfill leachate management is one of
the major concerns when it comes to solid waste management
through landfilling or open dumping. This liquid consists
of dissolved organic matter, inorganic macro compounds, heavy
metals and xenobiotic organic compounds. In recent studies,
leachate has been identified to be a main secondary source
of emerging contaminants. In order to eliminate the environmental
impacts and to satisfy regulatory requirements of leachate
discharge, leachate should be managed properly. Treatment
of landfill leachate is the mostly used method of leachate
management. Different treatment technologies have been utilized
to treat leachate and membrane bioreactor has proven to perform
well in leachate treatment. |
|
Eng. H.G.S. Mayuranga Ph.D. Candidate (Geotechnical Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Railway transportation is becoming popular
with the growing demand and the numerous advantages of the
presence of high-speed trains in many countries. In spite
of its advantages, acceleration of track deterioration due
to heavier loads and higher speeds is one of the major challenges
in its development. Under repetitive train loads, the degradation
of the key load-bearing ballast layer is vital and leading
to a decrease in shear strength, excessive track settlements
and hinder track drainage. To overcome these drawbacks, adoption
of resilient rubber pads such as rail pads (RP), under sleeper
pads (USP) and under ballast mats (UBM) has become the most
popular method in many countries. However, only limited studies
have been conducted on the geotechnical behaviour of ballast
when these rubber pads are adopted. Therefore, this study
focuses on evaluating the stress-strain and degradation behaviour
of ballast with and without the inclusion of rubber elements
to track. |
|
Eng. (Ms) R.M.D.L. Rathnayake M.Phil. Candidate (Structural Engineering), University of Peradeniya |
Railway network is one of the main transportation
modes which is economical and widely used all over the world.
A typical railway track of ballast consists of the superstructure
and the substructure. The superstructure consists of the rails,
the fastening systems, and the sleepers, whereas the substructure
consists of the ballast, the sub-ballast and the subgrade.
The behaviour of the superstructure and substructure below
is always interdependent. Although software with advanced
soil models is often used to represent the complex soil characteristics,
merging such a model with the superstructure modelled in detail
will demand unrealistic large computational cost. Adopting
a law fidelity model which can represent the railway substructure
with a sufficient accuracy can reduce the computational cost
significantly. This study focuses on coupling simplified substructure
models with high fidelity finite element superstructure model
with acceptable accuracy and recommending the best simplified
model to be used in a particular case. |