ISERME - 2023

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://192.248.9.226/handle/123/21322

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International Symposium on Earth Resources Management & Environment - ISERME 2023
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08) Jayawardena, CL
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Heavy metals in agricultural soils and level of contamination with crop production
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Sumanathilake, RMSBD; Jegatheeswaran, N; Pabanda, KGM; Vijitha, AVP; Premasiri, HMR
Heavy metals (HM) can be defined as metallic elements that are greater than 40 in atomic weight and above 5 g/cm3 in specific gravity and cause abnormal effects on the biota at low concentrations. This study aimed to assess the levels of HM contamination in soils and unpolished rice grains (Oryza sativa) at three separated paddy cultivation fields in Anuradhapura, Gampaha, and Jaffna over one consecutive season. The concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) were detected using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). According to the results, HM concentrations of As and Pb in the soil for all studied fields were below the maximum permissible limits (MPL) set by the World Health Organization/Food and Agriculture Organization (WHO/FAO). However, Pb content in rice grains was high in all stations relative to the MPL for crops given by WHO/FAO. The results revealed that Cd has exceeded MPL of both soil and grains in the Jaffna paddy field according to the WHO/FAO guidelines and Cd has a high transfer factor (TF>0.27) from soil to grain among all concerned agricultural lands. Other heavy metals have lower TF values (0.001 to 0.131). Regarding the contamination factor, As, Cd and Pb showed a moderate level of contamination severity over three regions.
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Design and performance optimisation of graphite-based batteries for advanced energy storage system
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Liyanage, LDNM; Reval, SS; Madushan, IL; Rohitha, LPS
This research focuses on the development of a graphite-based battery, utilising the abundant graphite resources available in Sri Lanka while facing the challenges of limited access to advanced materials and technologies. The primary objective is to create a viable graphite battery that can potentially contribute to the advancement of energy storage technologies. Given the constraints in accessing certain materials and technologies, this study explores the electrochemical properties of graphite and investigates its potential application as a key component in battery design. Through systematic testing and optimisation processes, we aim to enhance the battery's performance and energy storage capacity. The outcomes of this research provide valuable insights into the potential of graphite-based batteries, serving as a stepping stone for future improvements and innovations in energy storage. Although the developed battery may require further enhancements, it contributes to the growing body of knowledge in sustainable energy solutions, benefiting both Sri Lanka and the global energy sector.
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Effect of feed size on fine grinding of dolomite from Naulla deposit, Sri Lanka
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Gohulan, H; Jayaweera, BPDV; Deegayu, THSI; Mushmika, PAS; Samaradivakara, GVI
This study examines the crucial role that feed size plays in the fine grinding of dolomite obtained from Sri Lanka's Naulla deposit. The study is carried out at Metal Mix Pvt. Ltd. Galpatha site, a commercial facility that prepares dolomite for use in a variety of industries. By identifying the most efficient feed size range that improves comminution efficiency while attaining the desired particle size distribution, the main goal is to optimise the dolomite crushing unit, in particular the autogenous mill. The research process includes in-depth field tests and laboratory examinations. The effect of different feed size ranges on the grinding process is assessed by on-site studies. Analyses of the particle size distribution are performed based on the output of the autogenous mill to evaluate how well it performs with various feed sizes. The outcomes show that there is a distinct relationship between feed size and the effectiveness of fine grinding. According to the study, limiting feed size ranges from 1.5 to 4 inches which greatly raises crushability, cuts down on energy waste, and optimizes the grindability. The dolomite processing industry, where energy-efficient comminution is of utmost importance will be benefitted out of the findings of this study.
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Assessing the potential of critical metals and rare earth elements in lateritic soils of the Southwestern region of Sri Lanka
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Herath, HMIA; Piyumangi, WAM; Kanishta, KPMK; Abeysinghe, AMKB; Ratnayake, NP; Premasiri, HMR; Batapola, BDNM; Dilshara, RMP
Laterites are currently considered potential targets for critical metals (CMs) exploration considering their near-surface occurrence, large dissemination, and enrichment of CMs in lateritic soil during weathering. Although prominent lateritic formations are found in Sri Lankan geological terrain, the potential for CMs has not been explored yet. Therefore, the present study assesses the potential of CMs in laterites of the southwestern part of the country. 60 samples were collected covering the overall study area and processed for critical metal analysis. The metal concentrations of CMs: Al, Ni, V, Cr, As, Sr, Co, Sc, and REEs were determined from inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Li, Fe, and Al concentrations were determined from atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). According to the analysis, critical metals such as Cr, V, Ni, and Th were significantly high in laterite samples ranging from 42-419, 116-583.4, 274 – 1498, and 33 – 472 mg/kg, respectively. REE and other critical metals considered in the study including Co and Cu, showed comparatively low potential. The findings of the study emphasise that laterite soil has significant potential for Ni, V, and Cr, especially in low grades. The conclusion is this analysis will benefit future CMs' exploratory investigations by providing insights into the potential of CMs in Sri Lankan laterite deposits.
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Heavy metal contamination in the water of a semi-urban lake – Bolgoda lake, Sri Lanka
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) De Silva, NJC; Malinda, KMDRP; Elankeeran, T; Dilshara, RMP; Batapola, BDNM; Ratnayake, NP; Premasiri, HMR; Abeysinghe, AMKB
Urbanisation and industrialisation have intensified the heavy metal contamination in inland water bodies. Therefore, this study investigates the recent status of heavy metal pollution in the water of the Bolgoda Lake in Sri Lanka, a semi-urban inland water body that receives both treated and untreated municipal and industrial discharge from the surrounding area. A total of 11 lake water samples were analysed by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) to determine the concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Pb, and V. Their mean concentrations in the Bolgoda Lake water were 0.661 ± 0.264 ppm, 0.010 ± 0.004 ppm, 0.090± 0.018 ppm, 0.007± 0.002 ppm, 0.043± 0.039 ppm, 0.002± 0.001 ppm, 0.662± 0.264 ppm, and 0.091 ± 0.018 ppm, respectively. However, the derived contamination factors of the analysed heavy metals revealed that Bolgoda Lake is highly polluted with Cd (22.0) and V (13.2), whereas moderately polluted with Pb (1.8). Compared to previous studies, heavy metal contents in Bolgoda Lake water have increased significantly, especially Cd and Pb. Therefore, Cd, V, and Pb can pose the greatest threat to the ecological environment of Bolgoda Lake, thus effective strategies such as treatment or recycling of wastewater and industrial discharges are needed to protect this lake from further contamination.
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Leveraging the performance of washing cycles to enhance the preprocessing of coal fly ash
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Galappaththi, RY; Hissalle, LPAD; Chamith, PLS; Wickrama, MADMG; Fernando, WAM; Jayawardena, CL
Coal is relatively cheap and abundant fossil fuel contributing to 40% of the world's electricity production. However, coal combustion generates a significant number of by-products, majority being the coal fly ash (CFA). The heterogeneous nature of CFA poses significant challenges in its value-added applications hence, requiring appropriate preprocessing treatments which are expensive and technically savvy. Therefore, this research aims to improve CFA's suitability for the application of value-added products through a technique called “washing cycles” which wash the CFA multiple times using distilled water under a controlled environment with continuous and vigilant monitoring to ensure accuracy throughout the entire process. To optimise this washing cycle process, parameters such as the number of washing cycles, stirring time, and temperature were analysed, and the results were optimised through surface response methodology. The analytical findings on the optimization process demonstrated that a suitable pre-treatment involved employing five washing cycles with a stirring time of 7.5 minutes. Furthermore, varying the temperature did not yield a substantial effect on the effectiveness of washing cycles, since the precipitation of Ca2+ ions even complicate the preprocessing. Therefore, we recommend conducting additional investigations into the efficient use of pre-processed CFA to produce value-added applications adhering to circular economy and sustainability.
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Synthesis of graphene through electrochemical exfoliation of Sri Lankan graphite
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Bimsara, GSMN; Wijerathnayake, WMNC; Abeyrathna, WANM; Thayalan, P; Dissanayake, DMDOK; Adikary, SU
Graphene, a remarkable two-dimensional carbon allotrope characterized by a hexagonally arranged carbon lattice, has garnered significant attention due to its extraordinary properties and diverse range of applications. For the synthesis of graphene, multiple methods are available. In this research, we opted for the electrochemical exfoliation method due to its simplicity, scalability, and environmentally friendly attributes. This methodology follows a top-down paradigm, whereby graphene is derived from graphite. The experimental configuration involved the construction of an electrolytic cell, employing carbon electrodes fabricated from compacted graphite powder, with a 0.1M Na2SO4 solution serving as the electrolyte. By systematically varying the voltage, current, and spatial separation between the anode and cathode, five experimental trials were conducted. Subsequently, the electrolyte underwent filtration, and the resultant residue underwent a drying process. Morphological observation of the synthesized graphene samples was facilitated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the confirmation of graphene sample purity was achieved through energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a distinct diffraction peak at 2θ=26.4°, corresponding to the (002) plane. Additionally, the absorption peak of graphene was identified at 230 nm. Our findings strongly suggest that electrochemical exfoliation represents a promising avenue for the synthesis of grapheme utilizing Sri Lankan graphite. However, further investigations are imperative to refine and optimise this method for the large-scale production of graphene.
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Interaction of organic liquid with metakaolin-based geopolymer
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Fang, C; Elakneswaran, Y; Niu, X; Hiroyosi, N
In recent years, there has been growing interest in geopolymer cement as a more sustainable alternative to traditional concrete. Metakaolin-based geopolymers have a high capacity to immobilise radioactive cations such as Cs+ and Sr2+ via an ion exchange mechanism. In the meantime, the geopolymer has a high potential to solidify organic liquid waste and has been considered for developing porosity-controlled materials. However, the interaction mechanism between organic liquid and metakaolin-based geopolymer has not been fully understood. In this study, the appropriate control of organic liquid in the geopolymer has been studied. Firstly, alkali-activated solution (K2O:SiO2:H2O molar ratio of 1:1:13) was mixed with the lubricant (FBK Turbine 32) and cationic surfactant (CTAB) to form an emulsion. Then metakaolin-based (Sobueclay) geopolymers were synthesised in the emulsion (Al: Si molar ratio of 1:1). The interaction mechanism between the oil with emulsion and geopolymer (with or without surfactant) was evaluated using the zeta potential, paste slump flow, SEM, and compressive strength. The metakaolin-based geopolymer could not solidify the oil. However, the geopolymer can successfully solidify oil content with the help of a surfactant that changes the surface of the oil from negative to positive, allowing it to interact with the opposing surface of the geopolymer. However, the compressive strength of the resulting composite decreased as the oil content increased due to an increase in porosity, and as the hydration products filled the pores over time, the strength increased. These findings suggest that geopolymer could be a promising solution for solidifying oil. However, careful consideration must be given to the porosity induced by the presence of oil to ensure that the resulting composite has sufficient strength for its intended application.
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Analysis of topographic effects on tea yield in Sri Lankan tea estates using geomatics
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-07-28) Randima, KAC; Malinga, DIGS; Kalpana, TMJ; Chaminda, SP
This research paper investigates the potential impact of hill shade on tea yield at the Dambatenne tea estate using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Drones were used to take high-resolution aerial photos of the location that was selected. The data were processed using Pix4D software to generate accurate 3D surface models, ortho mosaic maps, and vegetation indices. Additionally, the main goal of this study was to evaluate the impact of hill shade on tea yield. By analysing the obtained data, including vegetation indices derived from the multispectral imagery, the correlation between hill shade and tea yield was examined. Various mapping techniques and statistical analyses were employed to investigate this relationship. The findings suggested that there may be a relationship between hill shade and tea yield and that different levels of shading brought on by topographic characteristics may influence the development and production of tea. The findings from this research contribute to the understanding of how hill shade affects tea yield and provide insights for sustainable tea estate management practices. The results of this study are significant for tea estate owners and managers, as it highlights the importance of considering hill shade factors in optimizing tea cultivation and maximising yield.
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Comparative analysis of water hyacinth dynamics in North Bolgoda Lake, Sri Lanka: a classification based on high-resolution aerial imagery and satellite-imagery
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Dawalagala, HS; Radampola, A; Gowsigan, PT; Chaminda, SP; Dassanayake, SM; Jayawardena, CL
Water hyacinth (WH) is an invasive aquatic plant that has established its presence in tropical and subtropical regions around the globe. Its widespread existence has resulted in societal, economic, and ecological impacts that are mostly intolerable. Understanding and monitoring the spatial and seasonal dynamics of WH in the respective environments could provide insights to mitigate its environmental impact. This study attempts to identify seasonal patterns of WH within north Bolgoda Lake over four years (2019-2022). The methodology includes a pixel-based random forest (RF) classification utilising five distinct spectral indices in conjunction with raw Sentinel-2 spectral bands, operationalised through the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. The aerial imageries were classified using Esri ArcGIS Pro software. The outcomes of this study indicate an increase of WH proliferation during the wet season (May-November) over the dry season (December- April) with an overall accuracy of 82% for aerial imagery and 98% for satellite imagery. Data fusion techniques are proposed to overcome the limitations of employing two different forms of remote sensing data individually. Despite the challenges, this study reveals important insights into the scalability of input data to specific requirements and under restricted conditions.
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Identification of the bedrock level with sub-bottom profiling data
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Rathnayaka, KRHI; Ansanayaka, AGNJ; Piragash, C; Wickrama, MDMG; Senarathne, EN; Ratnayake, NP
This study dominantly inquiries about the accuracy of the interpretation of sub-bottom profiling data for the identification of the bedrock level that is essential for underwater constructions and other marine activities. Although the physical core samples give the data more accurately, it is expensive and time-consuming. It stimulates the inspection of alternative methods such as sub-bottom profiling. A boomer profiler has been used in this study for the data collection from the north and west sides of the Colombo harbour in Sri Lanka with a 1 kHz frequency. The acquired data were processed using the SonarWiz software and visual identification was employed for the layer identification. The borehole data were utilised for the validation of the results and standard penetration test (SPT) values were crucial while concluding due to most interpretations showing the bedrock level from SPT-50 level with its stiffness. Re-sedimentation is an error occurring during the borehole investigation. Apart from that, equipment failures can be occur during the seismic survey. According to the interpretation, the bedrock level reflection signature is often associated with the SPT-50 level. However, deviations occur due to factors like layer thickness and absolute bedrock presence. To improve the accuracy of interpretation, various frequencies and different types of bedrock can be considered.
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Applicability of GPR technique for earthen dam failures
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Arunapriya, GGDPI; Liyanage, AGSI; Kishanth, S; Premasiri, HMR; Ratnayake, NP; Abeysinghe, AMKB
A dam is a structure constructed across a river or stream to store water upstream from the obstruction. Dams are susceptible to damage for various reasons, which can lead to many catastrophic disasters. Therefore, identifying the dam's structural failures prior to a disaster is crucial. Drilling can be used for dam failure identification. But it is costly and destructive. Integrated geophysical methods have always helped in identifying subsurface features. In the current investigation, the applicability of ground penetrating radar (GPR) to detect potential failures in earthen dams was assessed. The Uyanwatta Lake earthen dam was selected as the study area during this investigation, considering the reported water leakage in this dam. A GPR survey was conducted with 100 MHz and 300 MHz antennas along five survey paths. Those are the top of the dam, 1.5 m below the top of the dam, and three distinct paths for the lake's spill. During the interpretation process, clay layers, fractured zones, gravel layers, and water seepage areas were identified. Those water leakage areas indicate that there has been a leak in the dam. Those results were compared with exploratory drill hole data from the Uyanwatta Lake Dam. Drill hole data has only presented information about the rock types present in the dam. But GPR data was able to provide information on loose sediments in the shallow depths of the dam as well. That indicates GPR data has the potential to provide additional information related to earthen dams.
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Remote sensing and GIS approach to evaluate the UHI effect in Colombo city using landsat satellite data
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Dissanayake, DMDOK; Kurugama, KM
This study examines Colombo’s heat island effect due to rapid development, with factors including urbanisation, reduced vegetation, increased energy use, heat-absorbing surfaces, and waste heat. Urban expansion absorbs and releases heat, raising night temperatures, while reduced vegetation disrupts natural temperature regulation. Energy consumption from air conditioning, industry, and transport worsens the effect. Heat-trapping surfaces and waste heat intensify the problem. The study analyses land surface temperature (LST), normalized vegetation difference index (NDVI), normalised difference building index (NDBI), and albedo’s role in the urban heat island (UHI) effect. UHI spread north, east, and southeast from 2001 to 2019. NDVI inversely correlates with LST, indicating vegetation mitigates UHI; NDBI positively correlates, showing that built areas contribute. Lower albedo values heighten UHI by absorbing more solar radiation. Urban thermal difference index (UTFVI) assessment identifies 27% of the region under high thermal stress. Future Colombo urban planning should integrate strategies like urban greening, cool roofs, sustainable planning, energy efficiency, and public awareness to address the UHI effect, enhance residents’ lives, and promote sustainability. Successful implementation requires collaboration among policymakers, urban planners, and residents for a resilient urban environment.
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Flood susceptibility mapping using explainable machine learning models
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Kurugama, KAKM; Kazama, S; Chaminda, SP
Flooding is one of the most frequently encountered natural disasters globally. Frequent severe flood occurrences in Rathnapura city, Sri Lanka caused damages to both human lives and infrastructures. Data-driven models have been showing their ability of flood susceptibility mapping (FSM) in data-scare regions as an alternative to traditional hydrological models, but they are not widely used by stakeholders due to their black-box nature. This research suggests utilising the shapley additive explanation (SHAP) method to interpret the results generated by the CatBoost machine learning model and to assess the influence of different variables on flood susceptibility mapping. A flood inventory (445 flooded locations) and thirteen flood conditioning factors were used to implement the model and results were validated using the area under curve (AUC) method, which showed a success rate and prediction rate of 93.1% and 92.5%, respectively. SHAP plots indicated that the regions with lower elevations and topographic roughness values, gentler slopes, closer proximity to rivers, and moderate rainfall are more susceptible to flooding. According to the results obtained, we suggest incorporating SHAP-based datadriven models in forthcoming studies on FSM to enhance the interpretations of model outcomes.
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Estimation of an extreme flood scenario induced by heavy precipitation, following wildfires for the North - Central California
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Dilshan, MWRR; Hiraga, Y; Kazama, S; Chaminda, SP
Wildfires and extreme precipitation scenarios are an increasing trend in the global context. Elevated risks of floods are expected to occur due to fire-induced land cover alterations. Hence, it is important to identify the impact of wildfire upon extreme runoff scenarios, under changing climate. This study focuses on the impact of the 2018 Ranch fire and the possibility of downstream flood risk in the Lake County of North - Central California. The soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) is used to estimate potential extreme flood scenarios brought on by high precipitation after wildfires downstream of Lake County. Using hydrological and meteorological data from 2000-2018, the SWAT model is set up and calibrated on a daily and monthly basis. Model calibration was performed after identifying 9 sensitive parameters, including the soil conservation service curve number (SCN-CN), and the model for pre-fire conditions agreed well with R2=0.83, NSE=0.81, and PBIAS=-17.8 values. The soil conservation service (SCS) curve number, wildfire burn severity, and land use are considered in determining the variation of discharge under the post-fire condition. Further research can be used to identify probable flood scenarios even in the context of post-fire low precipitation levels and to enhance simulation outcomes under various parameter modifications.
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Use of remotely sensed soil moisture data in hydrological modelling
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Gunasekara, KM; Gunawardhana, L; Rajapakse, L
Accurate hydrological data is crucial for understanding streamflow changes and predicting extreme events in river basins. By utilising remotely sensed soil moisture products, the estimation of soil moisture distribution at the basin scale in hydrological modelling becomes feasible, addressing practical challenges. This study investigates the integration of remotely sensed soil moisture estimates to enhance the accuracy of hydrological model simulations in the upper Peradeniya catchment, Sri Lanka. A hydrological model (ABCD model) was developed for the catchment area. Soil moisture data from NASA's soil moisture active passive (SMAP L4) were integrated with the model's estimations to improve river flow simulations. The study reveals that the integration of SMAP L4 did not significantly enhance accuracy. However, notable differences in calibrated parameters emerged, highlighting the importance of incorporating multiple inputs for calibration. These findings demonstrate the potential of remotely sensed soil moisture in enhancing hydrological model simulations. Incorporating remotely sensed soil moisture can contribute to more reliable predictions and management of water resources in river basins, aiding in sustainable development and climate change adaptation.
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GIS-based analysis of coastal vulnerability in southern province of Sri Lanka: insights from Matara district coastal area
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Ratnayake, KM; Edirisooriya, KVUI; Rubasinghe, DM
Coastal erosion is a substantial natural hazard that is affecting both the environment and human communities globally. Sri Lanka's coastline is about 1600 kilometres, with rich biodiversity and resources, and faces growing coastal erosion, notably in the southern coastal region especially in the Matara District. Therefore, understanding the causes and effects of coastal erosion is essential. This study aims to evaluate shoreline changes from 2000 to 2020 (Weligama to Dikwella) and involves three stages such as mapping shoreline changes using satellite data (Landsat) a digital shoreline analysis system (DSAS), statistical analysis for shoreline changes rates over 20 years, identifying interplay between factors. DSAS measures shoreline changes using baseline approaches and results are presented for both northeast monsoon (NEM) and southwest monsoon (SWM) seasons. NEM shows coastal accretion in Matara due to sediment transportation, while SWM reveals erosion in Devinuwara through strong waves and sediment movement. Sea level rise, rainfall, and river flow correlations influence erosion patterns. Overall, this study emphasizes the use of advanced technology to understand and monitor coastal erosion, help decision-making and develop effective strategies for protecting coastlines.
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Assessment of unusual rock weathering in Samanalawewa area in Sri Lanka
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Rathnasekara, RMNL; Edirisuriya, EATD; Sajithkanth, T; Premasiri, HMR; Ratnayake, NP; Abeysinghe, AMKB
The research investigates the unusual rock weathering at Samanalawewa dam in Sri Lanka and its significant impact on the dam structure and surrounding area. While previous investigations covered physical, mechanical, chemical, and mineralogical properties, limited attention was given to physical observations. A comprehensive approach was conducted from physical observations, rock sample analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to gain a deeper understanding of the weathering mechanisms and potential structural weaknesses. Samples were collected from the quarry site and surrounding locations based on geological maps from 13 locations in both fresh and weathered states. Various rock types were included, such as charnockite (CHA), garnet sillimanite biotite gneiss (GBN), marble (MAR), and khondalite (KHO). Physical observations focused on identifying distinct weathering patterns, colours, and textures on the rock surfaces. These changes happened only in the dam quarry site, not in the surrounding area in the Samanalawewa area. The SEM analysis provided valuable insights into elemental changes. Despite thorough examination, this research did not identify a significant correlation between the observed rapid weathering and the geological characteristics of the Samanalawewa dam and its vicinity. Further investigations are required to unveil the underlying factors responsible for this geological phenomenon and its potential implications for the dam’s stability and long-term viability.
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Image analysis approach to determine the porosity of rocks
(Department of Earth Resources Engineering, 2023-08-28) Varnasuthan, S; Fernando, WTM; Dahanayaka, DS; Dassanayake, ABN; Wickrama, MADMG; Illankoon, IMTN
Accurate characterisation of rock porosity is essential for assessing its strength and durability. This study explores both conventional and image analysis methods for determining rock porosity of two types of rocks, Bibai sandstone, a hard clastic rock and limestone, a soft rock. Conventional methods for determining rock porosity involve physical measurements and laboratory analysis, while image analysis methods utilize advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans or SEM to assess porosity based on visual information extracted from rock images. While various image analysis approaches exist to determine rock porosity, questions arise as to which approach is applicable and whether the results are comparable to current conventional methods. Hence, this study focuses on comparing the accuracy of alternative image analysis approaches. Representative rock chips from each core sample were examined using SEM, and 2D porosity was evaluated through image processing with ImageJ software. The Avizo visualisation software was employed to assess Bibai sandstone samples' porosity from CT images. The research offers insights into the pros and cons of each approach, contributing to the enhancement of accuracy and efficiency in rock porosity evaluation, particularly in geology, mining, and civil engineering applications

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