Recent Publications
Sustainable Enzymatic Dehairing of Cowhide Using Pineapple-Derived Bromelain
The leather industry traditionally employs lime and sodium sulfide for unhairing, generating highly alkaline wastewater and significant environmental pollution. This study evaluates the potential of bromelain extracted from different parts of pineapple (Ananas comosus) crown, fruit, peel, and leaves as an eco-friendly alternative for enzymatic unhairing of cowhide, and compares its performance with the conventional …
Sustainable Enzymatic Dehairing of Cowhide Using Pineapple-Derived BromelainRead More
Particulate Matter Exposure and Health Effects Among Construction Workers in Sri Lanka
Construction workers are routinely exposed to airborne particulate matter (PM) generated by activities such as cutting, drilling, demolition, and excavation. In Sri Lanka, where dust management practices on construction sites are often inadequate, this exposure poses a serious but underexamined occupational health risk. This study assessed PM exposure levels and associated health effects among construction …
Particulate Matter Exposure and Health Effects Among Construction Workers in Sri LankaRead More
Assessing the Effectiveness of Rice Husk Ash and Putty Waste Dust as Sustainable Additives to Enhance the Performance of Subbase Materials in Road Construction
Weak subbase soils pose a significant challenge in road construction, particularly in tropical regions where expansive and low-bearing-capacity soils are prevalent. Conventional stabilizers such as cement and lime, while effective, are associated with high cost and substantial carbon emissions. This study investigates the combined effect of rice husk ash (RHA) and waste putty dust (WPD) …
Performance of Solid Masonry Blocks Incorporating Rice Husk Ash Produced Under Open and Controlled Burning Conditions
The construction sector is responsible for a significant share of global CO₂ emissions, primarily from Portland cement production. Rice husk ash (RHA), an agro-industrial by-product rich in amorphous silica, offers a promising pozzolanic substitute for cement. This study evaluates the mechanical and durability performance of solid masonry blocks (215 mm × 105 mm × 65 …
Footsteps – A Review of Train Approach, Speed, Direction, and Distance Detection Methods Using Vibrations
Train detection is fundamental to railway signaling and safety, traditionally relying on infrastructure-heavy systems such as track circuits and axle counters. While reliable, these methods involve significant maintenance and are often limited in remote areas. This paper provides a comprehensive review of emerging vibration-based sensing techniques, which utilize accelerometers and geophones to capture distinct vibration …