PhD Student in Civil Engineering
Ishani Lankadhikara is a PhD student in civil engineering at Swinburne University of Technology. She holds a bachelor degree in civil engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, and has experience in both academic research and engineering practice. Her professional journey started as a trainee civil engineer at Civil and Structural Engineering Consultants (Pvt) Ltd during the internship period in undergraduate years. She worked as a temporary instructor in the Department of Civil Engineering at University of Moratuwa after completing the bachelor. Then she joined Ceywater Consultants (Pvt) Ltd as a junior civil engineer. Later she started her academic career with the passion for sustainable infrastructure, structural safety, and innovative materials research
Swinburne University of Technology
The performance of fasteners in normal and low-carbon concrete under fire
Despite the advancements in concrete technology, there is a limited understanding of the performance of fasteners in low-carbon concrete under elevated temperatures. Current design codes and guidelines are primarily based on studies involving normal concrete, while there is uncertainty in the applicability of these provisions on fasteners in low-carbon concrete. Design guidelines available in Europe for fire resistance of fasteners in concrete are considered very conservative and lack scientific understanding while European recommendations are limited to fastener systems in normal concrete. The Australian standard for the design of post-installed and cast-in fastenings in concrete (AS 5216:2021) currently does not cover design guidelines for the performance of fasteners in either conventional concrete or low-carbon concrete under fire exposure. My research project aims to bridge this knowledge gap incorporating normal and low-carbon concrete to understand the fastener performance under extreme conditions like fire.
I was motivated to undertake an industry-led research project because I wanted my research to have real-world relevance and practical impact. Collaborating with industry allows me to address current challenges faced in the construction sector particularly in enhancing fire safety performance while contributing to both academic knowledge and professional practice.
The highlights of my research include developing a comprehensive experimental framework to assess the fire performance of various fastener types in both normal and low-carbon concretes. Generally, fire tests are expensive and time consuming. The guidance from the supervisors and the support from the industry partners are remarkable in my PhD journey to make it smooth. Further, it’s a great opportunity to work in the smart structural laboratory at Swinburne University of Technology and networking with fellow students.
I am interested in both academia and industry. I’m open and adaptable based on the opportunities that come my way. However, I am keen on pursuing a career in the industry, particularly within the fire engineering sector.
Design engineers face significant challenges in deciding on appropriate fasteners that meet stringent fire resistance criteria. This issue is compounded by the lack of comprehensive guidelines and standardized tests for fasteners used in low carbon concrete, making it difficult to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. The focus on low carbon concrete aligns with industry and global sustainability goals. By providing robust design guidelines for using sustainable materials, this research supports the construction industry’s transition towards more environmentally friendly practices.
