Abstract:
107252-1.pdf The completion of this thesis was made possible by the help of many individuals. I take this opportunity to express my gratitude and indebtedness to my supervisor Dr. Mrs. J C P H Gamage, for her scholarly guidance, enthusiasm, proactive attitude and advice at every stage of the research study to complete it successfully. Without her direction, this thesis could not possibly have been completed in such an organized and timely manner. Much appreciation is conveyed to Ms. Dedunu Wimalasiri who is a graduate diploma student at IESL for the support, dedication and untiring efforts to ensure that this study progressed smoothly without any hindrance. Also, I would like to thank Ms Erandi, postgraduate student of department of civil engineering, university of Moratuwa for the support extended to conduct the testing. I would like to thank for all technical staff of building materials and structural testing laboratories, university of Moratuwa for their assistance. Mr Namal Liyanage of Liyanage Construction is greatly acknowledged for supporting to sand blast the test specimens. I would like to thank my husband and daughter for bearing with me and supporting me to do this research study during weekends and nights and sacrificing limited time available for family get-together. Finally, I offer my appreciation to all officers in National Water Supply & Drainage Board who helped me to complete this research successfully.