Institutional-Repository, University of Moratuwa
Welcome to the University of Moratuwa Digital Repository, which houses postgraduate theses and dissertations, research articles presented at conferences by faculties and departments, university-published journal articles and research publications authored by academic staff. This online repository stores, preserves and distributes the University's scholarly work. This service allows University members to share their research with a larger audience.
 Research Publications |  Thesis & Dissertation |  E- Books |
 UoM Journal Publications |  UoM Conference Proceedings |  Articles published in Scimago's Q1 journals |  UoM Research Reports |  Other Articles authored by UoM staff |
Recent Submissions
item: Thesis-Abstract
Behaviour of link slab with FRP rebars in jointless bridge decks
(2025) Kurukulasooriya, WKBL; Gamage, JCPH; Alwis , N
This research investigates the design, structural behaviour and performance of bridge link slabs reinforced with conventional steel and Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) bars that play a vital role in the development of modern jointless bridge systems. Link slabs are increasingly used to provide continuity between adjacent spans or between the deck and abutments, effectively eliminating traditional expansion joints. This jointless approach enhances the ride quality, reduces long-term maintenance requirements, and significantly improves the durability and structural integrity of bridge systems. The study specifically focuses on the application of GFRP reinforcement in link slabs, aiming to overcome the limitations associated with steel reinforcement, particularly corrosion-induced deterioration. GFRP bars offer notable advantages, including corrosion resistance, a high tensile strength to weight ratio, and non-magnetic properties. However, their relatively low modulus of elasticity introduces challenges in terms of crack control, deformability, and anchorage performance. The research methodology comprises experimental testing of link slabs reinforced with both steel and GFRP bars to analyse their flexural behaviour under the moving load from heavy vehicular traffic which is considered as HB load in British codes. Numerical modelling using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is employed to validate the experimental results and explore additional parameters. Furthermore, a detailed cost analysis is conducted to evaluate the practical feasibility of implementing GFRP reinforced link slabs in the construction industry. Ultimately, this study aims to demonstrate the viability of GFRP as a durable, low maintenance alternative to traditional steel reinforcement in link slabs, thereby contributing to the advancement of resilient, long-lasting and sustainable bridge infrastructure
item: Thesis-Abstract
ANN-Based approach for selection of optimum floor system of multi-storied buildings in the preliminary design stage
(2025) Kiriparan, S; Mallikarachchi , HMYC; Herath, DMST
Eco-friendly and climate-resilient building concepts are globally emerging with increasing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from the building sector. Addressing the embodied carbon of floor systems becomes essential as these contribute more than 50% of the embodied energy of the building footprint. Whereas, in the Preliminary Design Stage (PDS), striving for the best alternative satisfying performance, economic and environmental criteria is challenging within a limited time while decision-making is generally from the expertise’s design sense and intuition. Engineers in design firms have been encountering these recursive design processes over the years; however, the rate of reutilization of the previous design information and experience is very rare. Machine Learning (ML) techniques can offer smart decision-making tools in the PDS. Nevertheless, only a few addressed the optimization in the PDS while none of the studies comprehensively addressed the optimum floor system considering all three criteria simultaneously. This study utilized a human brain mimicking algorithm, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) in the optimization of reinforced-concrete floor systems of a multi-storied building in the PDS encapsulating the performance, economic and environmental considerations with the aid of data collection from the constructed buildings in Sri Lanka. The eight distinct models are proposed to predict each quantity in both Beam-Slab System (BSS) and Flat-Slab System (FSS). The proposed models in the BSS database are recorded predictions with R2 values of above 0.8 demonstrating reasonable performance in the heterogeneous real-world data while the models in the FSS database show superior performance which yields R2 values greater than 0.95 with synthetic data. Also, the predictions from all the models fall below a 30% error margin and the models in the FSS database demonstrated the higher performance with significantly lower error margins of 10 to 20%. Further, a conducted comparative analysis with the range of alternative ML models demonstrates the performance and capabilities of human-brain-inspired ANN under heterogeneous and high-dimensional data with inherently qualitative in nature. SHAP explanations demonstrated the relative contribution of each feature in the quantity predictions which in turn streamlined the confidence in the end-users. The trained ANN model is finally transformed into a design tool to facilitate the engineers to predict quantities that offer a platform to select the optimized floor system in the PDS
item: Thesis-Abstract
Structural performance assessment of light-weight floor systems using locally available CFB and CFS sections
(2025) Indunil, JMG; Baskaran, K
Studies, on the use of alternative materials to conventional reinforced concrete flooring have become increasingly important in modern construction. One encouraging option is a lightweight composite slab system using natural cellulose fibre cement boards supported by cold-formed steel purlins. In Sri Lanka, such fibre cement boards are locally manufactured and becoming popular in low-rise residential and commercial buildings. However, the lack of reliable mechanical property data for these boards presents a challenge to structural engineers during detailed design. To address this gap, a comprehensive experimental program was conducted at the University of Moratuwa to determine the mechanical properties of locally available fibre cement boards with thicknesses of 15 mm, 18 mm, and 20 mm. Tests were performed in accordance with BS EN 12467, BS EN 789, and BS EN 1383 to evaluate bending strength (along and perpendicular to the fibre direction), tensile strength, compressive strength (in-plane and perpendicular), and pull-through resistance. All tests were conducted under dry conditions using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) in displacement-controlled mode. Characteristic strengths were calculated following the procedures in EN 14358. Based on the experimentally derived characteristic strengths, this research proposes a set of span tables for fibre cement boards supported by cold-formed “C” purlins as per the Eurocodes. These span tables offer a practical and cost-effective design tool for engineers and promote the use of sustainable, lightweight flooring systems in the local construction industry.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Assessment of fire risks in rubber manufacturing industry in Sri Lanka
(2025) Mura Mudalige, SL; Rathanayake, U
The rubber manufacturing industry in Sri Lanka plays a vital role in the national economy as a key contributor to global supply chains, particularly through the export of natural rubber and rubber-based products. However, the sector inherently faces a heightened risk of fire due to the flammable nature of raw rubber compounds, chemicals, and associated materials used in production. This research aims to assess fire-related hazards within the rubber manufacturing industry in Sri Lanka, identifying the root causes and evaluating the effectiveness of existing safety measures.
A mixed-methods approach was adopted, incorporating both quantitative data analysis of past fire incidents and qualitative insights gathered through structured interview with industry personnel. The study identifies critical fire risk factors, including material handling practices, inadequate fire suppression systems, and lapses in regulatory compliance. Furthermore, the global context underscores similar challenges, as rubber manufacturing is widely recognized as a high-risk sector for fire incidents.
Based on the findings, this research proposes a set of practical, industry-specific mitigation strategies aimed at enhancing fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and overall occupational safety. The outcomes are expected to support policy formulation and strengthen fire risk management frameworks across Sri Lanka’s rubber manufacturing sector.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Managing occupational stress among heavy vehicle drivers in the Sri Lanka Navy
(2025) Dias, DMC; Dissanayake, DMPP
Occupational stress is a significant factor influencing the health, well-being, and performance of heavy vehicle drivers, particularly those serving in military organizations such as the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN). This study investigates the causes and consequences of workplace stress among heavy vehicle Transport Assistants (TAs) in the SLN, identifying key stressors and proposing mitigation strategies. Using a mixed-method approach, data was collected from a sample of 221 drivers through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression models. The findings revealed that fatigue, long working hours, irregular schedules, inadequate ergonomics, lack of job support, and inappropriate physical conditions were significant predictors of stress. Notably, stress was linked to reduced job satisfaction, increased turnover intention, and compromised performance. The study recommends interventions, including ergonomic improvements, stress management training, job rotation, and enhanced work-life balance initiatives, to mitigate stress and enhance the operational efficiency and well-being of SLN drivers. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of occupational stress management in military contexts and provide actionable strategies for improving driver welfare and safety.