Abstract: In this study mix proportion parameters of lightweight foamed concrete (LWFC) are analyzed by using the Taguchi’s experiment design methodology for optimal design. For that purpose, mixtures are designed in L16 orthogonal array with five factors, namely, Microwave Incinerated Rice Husk Ash (MIRHA) contents, water cementitious ratio (w/c), sand cement ratio (s/c), superplasticizier (SP) content, foam content. The mixtures are tested, both in fresh and hardened states and to meet the entire practical and technical requirement of LWFC. The results are analyzed using the Taguchi experimental design methodology. The best possible levels of mix proportions are determined for maximization through compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, UPV. Dry density, porosity, and water absorption can be really minimized by the proposed optimum mixture proportions.

Abstract: This study mainly focuses to carry out the physical dimension and characteristics of environmental sensitive areas in Matara District and build a system to identify the spatial distribution of environmentally sensitive locations in the events of Disasters such as Landslide, Flooding. By generating the 3D model for entire Matara District , It has to be demarcated high lands and low lying areas classification. For that, it is necessary to set up a comprehensive contour network for entire study area. By georeferncing 1: 50000 topographic sheets. Contour information has been digitized into the Geographic Information System. Feeding of height information, adjustment of contours between the topographic sheets have been done using quality control tools of GIS. After, setting up a very reliable and sophisticated contour based GIS system. Slope classification method can be applied to obtain the slope angle values and slope aspects. Classification of slope angle and aspect gave the elevation picture of entire area of high lands in Matara District which can be estimated more than 60% slope angle as risky areas. Distribution networks of rivers, streams and tributaries have been mapped to measure the sensitive buffering of law lying areas which frequently affected from flooding. In addition to the elevation and water related sensitive identification, Some Landuse/Landcover areas such as marshy, swampy and forestry lands have been overlaid to make final identification of the Potential Disaster Risk Areas ( PDRA). Result of this study shows that vulnerable risk locations and its spatial pressure to spread the Disasters within Matara District.