Challenges and Opportunities in Achieving Gender Equality in Apparel Sector in Sri Lanka

The apparel sector is a major driver of employment in Sri Lanka, with women making up a substantial share of the workforce. Despite this significant representation, a persistent gender gap remains in terms of equal opportunities and access to resources within industry. This study explores whether the Sri Lankan apparel sector provides equitable treatment to …

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Geopolitical Vulnerability and Structural Concentration in Iraq’s Oil Export System A Statistical and Market-Based Analysis under Regional Conflict Conditions

This study investigates the structural characteristics and temporal variability of Iraq’s crude oil export system during the first quarter of 2025, with particular emphasis on its exposure to geopolitical disruptions. Using descriptive statistical analysis and graphical modeling, the study identifies patterns of fluctuation, concentration, and dependency within export flows. The results indicate that total crude …

Geopolitical Vulnerability and Structural Concentration in Iraq’s Oil Export System A Statistical and Market-Based Analysis under Regional Conflict ConditionsRead More

Incorporation of Waste EPS in Mortar for Lightweight and Energy-Efficient Construction

This study evaluates the performance of lightweight mortar incorporating recycled expanded polystyrene (EPS) as a partial replacement for natural river sand. Targeting non-structural applications plastering, rendering, and masonry bedding a 25% volumetric sand replacement was investigated. The water-to-cement ratio was maintained between 0.45 and 0.50 using an OPC:sand ratio of 1:3 by volume. Results show …

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Performance of Concrete Incorporating Boat Fiber Waste Powder as a Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregates

This study investigates the feasibility of using Boat Fiber Waste Powder (BFWP) as a partial replacement for fine aggregates in M30-grade concrete. BFWP, derived from discarded glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) boat components, was incorporated at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% replacement levels by mass of fine aggregate. Workability (slump test, ASTM C143), 7-day and 28-day …

Performance of Concrete Incorporating Boat Fiber Waste Powder as a Partial Replacement for Fine AggregatesRead More

Effect of Coal Bottom Ash on the Plasticity and Swelling Behavior of Expansive Clayey Soil

Expansive clayey soils present persistent engineering challenges due to their high plasticity and pronounced swelling behavior upon moisture fluctuation. Conventional stabilization methods such as lime and cement treatment are effective but entail substantial economic and environmental costs. This study investigates the viability of coal-derived bottom ash (BA), sourced from the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant in …

Effect of Coal Bottom Ash on the Plasticity and Swelling Behavior of Expansive Clayey SoilRead More