SLIIT International Conference on Engineering and Technology [SICET]

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SLIIT International Conference on Engineering and Technology is organized by the Faculty of Engineering. SICET welcomes submissions from various disciplines, focusing on emerging trends in Engineering, Technology, and Applied and Natural Sciences. The conference will encompass research in theory, practical applications, and education. This event offers a unique platform for academics, student researchers, and industry practitioners to present innovative ideas and engage with professionals from diverse engineering fields

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Has files: YesSubject: search.filters.subject.Sustainable Infrastructure

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    PublicationOpen Access
    Circular Economy Practices in Road Rehabilitation and Development in Sri Lanka
    (Faculty of Engineering, 2025-09-09) De Alwis, L. M.; Gunarathna, K A N; Kalugala, C.
    The integration of Circular Economy principles into road rehabilitation and development offers a sustainable alternative to traditional linear construction practices. In Sri Lanka, where road infrastructure is crucial to economic growth and connectivity, the Circular Economy offers opportunities to reduce reliance on virgin materials, minimise environmental impact, and enhance long-term cost efficiency. This study explored applicable Circular Economy strategies, assessed current implementation practices, identified key challenges, and proposed viable solutions to support Circular Economy adoption in the Sri Lankan Road sector. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a comprehensive literature review with data from semi-structured expert interviews and a questionnaire survey of construction professionals. The findings indicate that while awareness of the Circular Economy is growing, its practical application remains limited due to barriers such as the absence of standardised technical guidelines, insufficient government incentives, limited stakeholder knowledge, logistical challenges in material sourcing and storage, and reluctance to shift from traditional methods. Data also highlights substantial potential benefits, including cost savings, reduced construction waste, increased material efficiency, and environmental improvements. Participants emphasised the importance of pilot projects, training programs, and policy support in promoting Circular Economy practices. To overcome existing barriers, the study recommends the development of clear Circular Economy specifications, financial incentives, capacity-building initiatives, and the establishment of centralised recycling infrastructure. These strategic actions can facilitate the transition toward a more circular and sustainable approach in Sri Lanka’s Road construction and maintenance sectors.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting in Interactive Environments: A Case Study Using a Playpen-Based Prototype
    (Faculty of Engineering, 2025-09-09) Bandara, H. M. U. J.; Fernando, M. N. V.; Samaranayake,H. D. K.
    As modern cities evolve towards sustainable and efficient infrastructure, implementation of micro-energy harnessing technologies caught the attention of researchers. This is mostly because non-renewable energy sources are being depleted, and the consequences of them are also marginal to the world. Piezoelectric materials are known for their conversion ability of mechanical stress, such as motion, vibrations, pressure, to electrical energy. This study provides a piezoelectric mechanism-based prototype that demonstrates the suitability of converting mechanical energy to electricity, especially footsteps from people, while being low maintenance and cleaner. In this design, 70 PZT piezoelectric disks are implemented beneath a playpen floor, suspended by a spring mechanism and further suspension components. Output voltages of 9.2V to 11.4V could be observed from this demonstration, with the help of 2-5kg loads applied. 76 LEDs were used to visualize this power in real-time, which also offers interactive feedback for children. The output analysis shows a low-current and somewhat non-linear power output. These results validate the possible outcome of deploying a piezoelectric system in high footfall infrastructure and recreational spaces. Even though it is low powered, such systems can enhance built environment functionality, and further improvements in the design can increase the output of such designs. This project represents a small-scale demonstration of this unpopular yet effective technology.