Browsing by Author "Nandasiri, GK"

Now showing 1 - 20 of 27

item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Analyzing the viability of a real-time sweat analysis system utilizing electrospun textiles
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Medagedara, MH; Peiris, TS; Wansekara, ND; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Health and wellness have become significant trends of the 21st century, with people embracing lifestyles that prioritize physical and mental wellbeing. Continuous monitoring of vital body functions is vital for a holistic approach to wellbeing. As a result, the research and business arena of wellness devices that seamlessly integrate into modern consumers' daily lives is rapidly growing, showing promising potential. Wearable technology, incorporating micro-controllers and electronic devices on the skin or within clothing, serves as signal receptors, analytical tools, and signal transmitters for monitoring human body vitals. This study aims to develop a smart textile-based wearable platform to enable continuous monitoring of vital signs [1].
item: Conference-Full-text
Chitosan-graphene oxide composite membrane for methylene blue removal
(IEEE, 2022-07) Dissanayake, NSL; Pathirana, MA; Wanasekara, ND; Nandasiri, GK; Rathnayake, M; Adhikariwatte, V; Hemachandra, K
Textile wastewater accommodates many toxic organic contaminants which could potentially threaten the ecosystem if left untreated. Methylene blue is a toxic, nondegradable, cationic dye which is reportedly found in significant amounts in the textile effluent stream as it is widely used to dye silk and cotton fabrics. This study reports an investigation of methylene blue removal using a composite membrane fabricated using chitosan and graphene oxide. The fabricated composite membrane was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy, FTIR Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, UV vis spectroscopy, and X ray Diffraction. The isotherm modelling conducted confirmed a maximum adsorptive capacity of 179 mg/g which was well fitted with the Langmuir isotherm model indicating a homogenous monolayer adsorption.
item: Article-Full-text
Chitosan-graphene oxide dip-coated polyacrylonitrile-ethylenediamine electro spun nanofiber membrane for removal of the dye stuffs methylene blue and congo red
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2023) Pathirana, MA; Dissanayake, NSL; Wanasekara, ND; Mahltig, B; Nandasiri, GK
Textile wastewater accommodates many toxic organic contaminants that could potentially threaten the ecosystem if left untreated. Methylene blue is a toxic, non-biodegradable, cationic dye that is reportedly observed in significant amounts in the textile effluent stream as it is widely used to dye silk and cotton fabrics. Congo red is a carcinogenic anionic dye commonly used in the textile industry. This study reports an investigation of methylene blue and Congo red removal using a chitosan-graphene oxide dip-coated electrospun nanofiber membrane. The fabricated nanocomposite was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), FT-IR Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, UV-vis Spectroscopy, Drop Shape Analyzer, and X-ray Diffraction. The isotherm modeling confirmed a maximum adsorptive capacity of 201 mg/g for methylene blue and 152 mg/g for Congo red, which were well fitted with a Langmuir isotherm model indicating homogenous monolayer adsorption.
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Comparative analysis of artificial neural network and multiple linear regression models in predicting pressure transmission of soft pneumatic actuators used for active compression
(IEEE, 2023-11-09) Hedigalla, D; Ehelagasthenna, M; Nissanka, ID; Amarasinghe, R; Nandasiri, GK; Abeysooriya, R; Adikariwattage, V; Hemachandra, K
Compression therapy is a crucial treatment method for managing Chronic Venous Disease (CVD), a prevalent condition that affects the veins in the lower extremities. Active compression using soft pneumatic actuators was found to be effective in maintaining consistent pressure across the circumference of the lower limb. However, the optimum design parameters of the soft pneumatic actuator have not been established. Thus, this study analyzed the performance of predicting the pressure transmission percentage of soft pneumatic actuators via an artificial neural network (ANN) and multiple linear regression models (MLR) in establishing optimum design parameters. It was observed that the lowest MSE on training data was recorded from MLR, however, better performances were recorded for the ANN model on testing data. Moreover, the highest R-squared values were obtained from the ANN model. Hence it was concluded that the ANN model was superior in terms of establishing optimum design parameters for the soft pneumatic actuators which are used in compression textiles.
item: Conference-Full-text
Copper nanoparticle synthesis on plasma treated poly(lactic) acid nonwoven fabrics
(IEEE, 2022-07) Rathnayaka, NC; Nandasiri, GK; Wanasekara, ND; Rathnayake, M; Adhikariwatte, V; Hemachandra, K
The demand for antibacterial fabric surfaces is increasing day by day. With the covid-19 pandemic situation, there is attention to antibacterial and antiviral nonwoven fabrics which can be used towards the development of personal protective wear. To reduce the environmental pollution caused by disposable and non-biodegradable polymer-made personal protective wear can be replaced by biodegradable polymers like poly(lactic) acid (PLA), which is quite similar to polypropylene, but biodegradable. In this study, the non-thermal plasma treatment method is used to increase the surface reactivity of the PLA nonwoven polymer surface. On the activated nonwoven surface copper nanoparticles are in-situ synthesized by chemical treatments. After 30 minutes of plasma treatment, better copper nanoparticle distribution and higher yield were achieved. Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the treated PLA nonwoven fabric surfaces.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Design & development of a textile based structure made from discarded polyester textured yarns for oil-water separation
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Nissanka, NPD; Rajapaksha, HPSD; Gunasekara, USW; Fernando, DODP; Nandasiri, GK; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Filtration textiles are not simply appropriate for oil spills since they need to collect polluted water before separating the oil. To overcome the identified problem, a sorbent textile structure is developed in this project. A textile-based structure is developed using discarded Polyester textured yam waste to remove spilled oil from the surface of water and reduce the environmental damage occurred by oil spill accidents. Reusing waste polyester yarn from yam processing mills for a practical solution is an environmentally friendly strategy. Due to the lack of structural integrity of yarn waste, it was decided to use the polyester textured yarns as a filling material by using the outer netting material as polypropylene (PP) leno mesh which are used as packing materials (generally referred as onion bags). In order to make the sorbent hydrophobic, few approaches were chosen. The effectiveness of the final prototype sorbent was assessed by conducting tests on oil sorption and oil-water selectivity.
item: Conference-Full-text
Design and development of test methodology for measuring hydrodynamic drag on fabric
(IEEE, 2023-12-09) Aruleswaran, V; Mahendran, T; Niles, S; Jayawardena, S; Nandasiri, GK; Abeysooriya, R; Adikariwattage, V; Hemachandra, K
In competitive swimming, minimizing drag is crucial for achieving optimal speed, and swimwear manufacturers aim to differentiate themselves through fabrics that reduce this resistance. However, a standardized method for drag measurement is yet to be established, and existing techniques have limitations including measurement errors, subjective outcomes, feasibility constraints, costly setups, and accuracy limitations. This study aims to introduce a novel solution by combining two existing drag-measuring techniques: computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and passive towing. To design and develop a test methodology to measure the drag force. The study determined the highest-drag mannequin shape and develops a testing equipment to facilitate passive towing experiments. The developed system measures the drag using a range of fabrics to assess their hydrodynamic properties. The resulting data were analyzed comprehensively through ANOVA statistical analysis, and it demonstrates the impact of fabric surface properties and fabric design on swimmer performance, emphasizing the key role of engineering textile in the sport industry.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Design and development of test methodology for measuring hydrodynamic drag on fabric
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Aruleswaran, V; Mahendran, T; Niles, SN; Jayawardena, S; Nandasiri, GK; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Swimming is an intense sport demanding strength, endurance, and technical proficiency, necessitates maximizing performance advantages. Usually, optimized swimwear reduces drag for the swimmers. To continually enhance swimwear performance, manufacturers invest in innovative materials and techniques. However, still the swimwear efficiency is debated among industry experts. The past research studies have consistently demonstrated that swimmers allocate over 90% of their efort to counteract hydrodynamic resistance, underscoring the critical importance of swimwear design in optimizing speed and achieving successful outcomes [1]. Drag force is the resistance that a fluid puts up against an object as it moves in the opposite direction, slowing down the motion [2]. Any object moving through a fluid at a relative velocity will experience the drag.
item: Conference-Full-text
Design of an alternating pressure overlay for the treatment of pressure ulcers
(IEEE, 2021-07) Ehelagastenna, M; Sumanasekara, I; Wickramasinghe, H; Nissanka, ID; Nandasiri, GK; Adhikariwatte, W; Rathnayake, M; Hemachandra, K
This paper discusses the development of an alternating pressure overlay designed with miniaturized air cells for the treatment of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers can be identified as a skin deformity due to application of prolonged pressure on the skin causing improper blood circulation. The alternating behaviour of the air cells aid in pressure relieving, thus provide better blood circulation to carry vital nutrients to the tissues while reducing formation of pressure ulceration. The proposed design miniaturizes the air cell sizes and establish an optimum air cell size to provide high-resolution pressure therapy in comparison to existing designs. This optimum air cell size, geometry along with its 3D deformation profiles were analysed using finite element method. The findings of the numerical simulations concluded that individual cell design should contain a minimum cell membrane thickness of 5mm and an overlay height of 185mm to withstand a maximum pressure of 60mmHg. Optimum pressure pattern of the alternating pressure therapy was selected as 1-in-4 pressure pattern, where the pressure overlay was divided into five pressure zones to actuate and map the interface pressures required. The control system was designed to provide required alternating pressure for patients by detecting the high pressure zones.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Developing fibre-reinforced cement paving blocks as a method of fiber waste disposal
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Baines, DM; Bogodawaththa, PBH; Gunasekara, USW; Gamage, DL; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
The textile industry contributes significantly to global environmental pollution, generating over 110 million tons of waste annually [1], with severe consequences for the environment. Out of Textile and apparel waste, when Textile waste fibers are considered, both pre-consumer and post-consumer wastes, present a massive challenge. Despite the potential for recycling, the rates remain low [2]. In this project, the focus is on repurposing textile waste fibers as a reinforcement material for pedestrian walkway paving blocks, addressing both waste management and paving block performance. By utilizing polyester waste fibers and recycled polyester waste fibers, the study aims to create a new market for fiber waste, benefiting multiple industries and the environment. The project's significance lies in reducing the environmental impact of the textile fiber-related industry in Sri Lanka, where textile waste is a major problem. However, challenges in recycling certain fiber types exist, and more research is needed to optimize the process and improve the performance and durability of fiber-reinforced cement paving blocks. Implementing this approach can lead to a circular economy, reduced waste management costs, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Development of a nanocomposite membrane for organic dye removal
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Pathirana, MA; Dissanayake, NSL; Nandasiri, GK; Wanasekara, ND; Mahltig, B; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Contaminated wastewater poses a significant threat to both the ecosystem and human health. The annual production of commercial dyes exceeds 7x105 tonnes, with the textile industry being responsible for two-thirds of the consumption [1]. Moreover, an estimated 10-20% of the manufactured dye is annually released into the effluent stream [2]. Previous literature indicates that adsorption offers promising solutions to organic dye removal owing to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Adsorption is fundamentally defined as the process through which ions, atoms and molecules are retained on solid surfaces via physical or chemical bonding. The literature extensively covers adsorbents designed for individual removal of either anionic or cationic dyes. However, research on techniques for simultaneous removal of both types of dyes is limited. As anionic and cationic dye molecules contain charges, adsorption can initiate through the formation of electrostatic bonding.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
ERU Symposium 2023 proceedings 5th - 6th December 2023
(Engineering Research Unit, 2023-12) Gamage, JR; Nandasiri, GK; Herath, RP
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Influence of loop length on thermal resistance in single jersey plated knitted fabrics
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Parakrama, ALCNS; Yapa, YMSB; Lanarolle, G; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Thermal resistance is a critical parameter in achieving thermal comfort through the prevention of heat transfer between the body and the environment. Fabric manufacturers receive requests for clothing with specific thermal resistance properties that ensure desired comfort levels. The easiest parameter that can be changed in the manufacturing stage of a knitted fabric is the knit loop length. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the influence of loop length towards the thermal resistance of single jersey fabric. The proposed approach involves varying the loop length of the fabric and analyzing its behavior in response to temperature variations. The fabric under investigation is a plated fabric consisting of a polyester face yarn with a backing of polyester-covered Lycra. The thermal behavior of these plated fabrics is tested for thermal conductivity and studied the cooling gradient of a hot body. The fabrics are knitted on a seamless knitting machine of gauge 28. The observed increase in thermal resistance with loop length can be attributed to the size of air gaps within the fabric structure. These air gaps, known for their excellent thermal insulation properties [1], acted as barriers for heat transfer, effectively trapping more heat within the fabric tube. This highlights the significant effect of loop length on thermal resistance that contributes to understanding and control of thermal resistance with loop length.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Investigating loss of wicking properties due to hard washing of the fabric used for top layer of the period underwear
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Ayesha, KAD; Dissanayake, HDJC; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Wanasekara, ND; Nandasiri, GK; Niles, SN; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
A period panty consists of three layers, a moisture wicking layer to transfer liquid away from the skin, absorbent layer to absorb liquid, and a protective layer to prevent leaking or staining [1]. The moisture wicking layer is made from a French terry material which has high wicking properties with a one-way transfer structure, allowing it to absorb the liquid and prevent it from returning to the surface. However, it has been observed that this wicking layer tends to lose its wicking properties after two LTD 30 hard washes. (One LTD 30 wash is approximately equal to twenty-five washes defined in AATCC 135 standard) When wicking properties of the top layer are lost, the liquid does not pass through to the absorbent layer, instead the liquid remains on the fabric surface. This will impair the functionality of the product and significantly reduce the comfortability of the wearer. Therefore, it is vital to find a solution to this issue to increase the durability of the product and to meet the requirements of the customer.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
An Investigation of the auxetic behavior of weft knitted fabrics
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Madhurangi, C; Wijethunga, C; Lanarolle, G; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Auxetic materials exhibit extraordinary mechanical characteristics, displaying lateral expansion under axial tension and lateral contraction under axial compression- a behavior opposite to that of conventional materials. This unique property, attributed to their negative poisson's ratio (NPR), opens exciting possibilities for enhanced performance in various applications, including lightweight structures with superior energy absorption, fracture resistance, shear resistance, acoustic absorption, and variable permeability [1].
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Investigation of the pilling behavior of natural, regenerated cellulose and their blends of knitted fabrics with different softeners
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Wijerathna, RADCP; Priyadarshani, ADMP; Nandasiri, GK; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
The evolution of textiles from basic protection to advanced functionality has led to higher expectations for modern garments, encompassing swimwear, sportswear, and more. While fabric softeners enhance softness by reducing friction and creating a smooth texture, controlling pilling is vital. Pilling, small fiber balls on fabric, is particularly concerning in cellulose-based knitted fabrics. This issue stems from fibers' flexibility and low strength. Innovative methods, including modifying fibers, yarns, constructions, and finishes, target anti-pilling improvement. Softeners, commonly used as finishing agents, affect pilling differently based on type, concentration, and application. Some enhance resistance by reducing fuzziness and boosting fiber cohesion, while others reduce resistance by increasing fiber mobility. Balancing softness and pilling resistance require thorough testing to ensure textile quality aligns with end-user expectations This research will help the textile industry to understand how softeners affect the pilling behavior of cellulose knitted fabrics. Therefore, it's important for textile manufacturers to consider the potential impact of softeners on pilling when developing textile products, and to use appropriate techniques to minimize the pilling effect.
item: Conference-Extended-Abstract
Investigation of the thermal and physical properties of fabrics produced by metallic-polymer hybrid yarns
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Karunaratne, C; Jayasundara, N; Wanasekara, ND; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Majority of the smart devices contain touch screens and the majority of them are based on capacitance and conductivity. This type of touch screens are developed by utilizing a matrix of rows and columns of conductive electrodes and small current is provided to electrodes to produce an even electrostatic field[ 1]. However, electrically insulating materials such as textile fabrics, cannot actuate touch screens as these types of materials are incapable of changing the electrostatic field.
item: Conference-Abstract
Investigation on antimicrobial properties of biopolymers applied to single-use pet
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Cooray, BRU; Assalaarachchi, DSAM; Gunasekara, USW; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
The increasing use of plastic in various applications has led to significant environmental concerns, particularly with the disposal of single-use plastic. Using heavy metals as antimicrobial agents and single-use plastics generate negative environmental impacts, including coral diseases, skin irritation, nonbiodegradability, and the potential for bioaccumulation. This work presents an experimental study of the antimicrobial activity of biopolymers embedded into electro-spun PET nanofiber mats. This project aimed to identify the antimicrobial activity of Chitosan and Curcumin electro spun with PET. Electro spun PET/ Chitosan and PET/ Curcumin nanomembranes consisted of fiber diameters in the range of 100 - 150 nm. The antimicrobial activity was measured using the quantitative standard test method AATCC 100. For this method, both gram-positive (Staphylococcus Aureus) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria were used. The experimental findings revealed that the PET/Chitosan membrane exhibited a significantly higher bacteria reduction rate compared to PET/Curcumin, with reduction percentage of bacteria was 58% and 52%, respectively. The PET/Chitosan membrane displayed impressive effectiveness in combating Staphylococcus aureus, achieving a notably higher reduction in bacterial count. Furthermore, when exposed to a temperature of 260°C to assess their industrial viability, both samples displayed encouraging results in their ability to combat the tested bacteria. The chitosan sample exhibited significantly greater activity compared to the Curcumin sample. These findings underscore the PET/Chitosan membrane's potential as a valuable antimicrobial option and indicate the beneficial impact of elevated temperature on the antimicrobial characteristics of these materials, paving the way for potential commercial production.
item: Conference-Abstract
Investigation on the fiber separation techniques for fabric waste made from cotton/spandex blends
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Vithanage, CD; Fonseka, WAM; Nandasiri, GK; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
This study addresses the challenge of reusing pre-consumption waste generated during the cutting process in apparel manufacturing, particularly in the context of blended textiles containing cotton and spandex fibers. Currently, due to the lack of fiber separation techniques, significant quantities of these textiles are being disposed of through landfill or incineration, squandering the opportunity for reutilization. The technique investigated in this study involves selective degradation of spandex fibers while recovering the cotton. A crucial aspect of this process is subjecting the cotton and spandex blended textiles to heat treatment exceeding 150°C, followed by a subsequent wash treatment to eliminate the thermally degraded spandex fibers. Through systematic experimentation, several solvents, including ethanol, acetone, acetic acid, and methanol, for removing the thermally degraded spandex has been identified. The outcomes of this study offer a promising avenue for the successful separation of constituent cotton and spandex fibers within blended textiles. This advancement holds significant implications for the transition from a linear to a circular economy in the textile industry, contributing to the reduction of waste and the sustainable utilization of valuable resources
item: Conference-Abstract
Mathematical model to measure energy absorption of a sports bra
(Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, 2023-08-31) Prasange, VSH; Liyanage, PL; Fernando, EASK; Jayawardena, TSS; Niles, SN; Nandasiri, GK; Niles, SN; Pathirana, M; Madhurangi, C
Measuring the shock absorbency of sports garments is pivotal for ensuring stability and support during exercise, minimizing injury risk in high-impact sports. It assesses a garment's capacity to absorb impact, curbing excessive breast movement and potential harm through compression, encapsulation, and structural support. This evaluation aids in predicting production outcomes and alleviating athletes' discomfort during physical activities. Prior research primarily concentrated on vertical nipple displacement using motion-capture cameras and live models, often neglecting the three-dimensional aspects of breast motion such as velocity, acceleration, and trajectory. This study introduces a novel approach using a sensor system to gather displacement, velocity, and acceleration data at specific points. It employs an artificial model to assess shock absorbency in sports garments during physical activities. The derived mathematical model, based on breast displacement data, offers insights into material and design choices prior to sample preparation. The study's findings yield invaluable insights for sports bra design and development, as well as selecting appropriate options for diverse physical activities. The authors aimed to develop a test method and mathematical model for measuring sports bra shock absorbency, addressing challenges related to cost, accuracy, and complexity. This research strives to enhance understanding and advance the evaluation of shock absorbency in sports bras, contributing to safer and more effective athletic experiences.