Proceedings of International Conference on Advances in Materials, Modeling, and Analysis for Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure Volume 2

Table of Contents

1. Frontmatter

2. Technical Note on Bioremediation of Plastic Waste by Mealworms in India

   C. Ramesh Babu, Deepak Kumar Soni, Anil Kumar Choudhary, Shailja Pandey

   Abstract

   The plastic waste (PW) with the growth of consumerism has become vulnerable to ecological footprint and the environment of India. The widely used plastics such as polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyvinylchloride have a direct impact on degrading ecosystem and affecting carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, and phosphorus cycle of the environment leading to leaching of ground water and sterile lands. The terrestrial and marine biota have been subjected to vulnerability due to increasing micro plastic along with population. The threat to environmental sustainability of plastic disposal is a huge concern throughout the globe. India has been trying various plastic disposing methodologies including incineration, landfills, recycling, pyrolysis, and laying roads. But all these processes are either costlier or produce harmful gases and chemicals into the atmosphere and environment. This technical note narrates the possibility of using the bioremediation process using various mealworms. The mechanism of the bioremediation is explored along with the feasibility of implementing the biological process in Indian context.

3. Empowering Rural India: Integrating Community Solutions and Linear Regression for Sustainable Water and Waste Management

   K. Ganesh, R. Aishwarya, Panchumarthi Mohithi, Yogesh Agarwal, N. Lalithamani, S. Sabarinath, Renjith Mohan

   Abstract

   Rural communities across the globe continue to grapple with multifaceted challenges related to sustainability, water management, educational disparities, and economic instability. This paper addresses the multidimensional challenges faced by rural communities through an integrated approach to sustainability and resilience-building. Using Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and Human-Centered Design (HCD) methodologies, we worked closely with local communities to co-create region-specific solutions. The integration of linear regression models provided quantitative insights into factors influencing water consumption and waste generation, enabling more effective, data-driven decision-making. Key interventions focused on improving water management, economic stability, and educational opportunities. These community-driven strategies align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and are designed to be scalable and transferable to other rural contexts, contributing to long-term resilience and sustainability. The integration of data-driven models with community-driven approaches underscores the potential for long-term resilience in rural development.

4. Empowering Communities for Resilient Water Solutions: A Case Study of Rural India

   E. Logeshwaran, Aashish Jaiswal, Cheruvu Sahithee Vaibhav, S. Thangavelu, Akshay Satish

   Abstract

   Water scarcity is a critical issue in rural India. This paper discusses the management challenges that arise from such regions. Some of the actual causes of water scarcity include climate change, deforestation, and inefficient agriculture. It proposes a multi-faceted approach to address this issue. These strategies can enhance its water security, agricultural productivity, and sustainable development. In fact, policy support and public–private partnerships provide the very basis for obtaining optimal solutions in water management. This research—from participatory rural appraisal methods applied in co-designing with villagers to resource mapping—explores a community-centric approach toward implementing an RO filtration system, thereby addressing the problems of waste management in holistic strategies to further improve the community's access to water.

5. Three-Dimensional Slope Stability Modeling of a Landslide-Prone Area in South Western Ghats, Kerala

   Anjana Viswanath, Sabari Ramesh, S. N. Remya, Maneesha Vinodini Ramesh

   Abstract

   Landslides, triggered by natural or anthropogenic factors like rainfall, earthquakes, and construction activities, are prevalent in the Western Ghats in the south and the Himalayas in the north of India. Most of the landslides in the Western Ghats are triggered by heavy rainfall during the monsoon. Despite many mitigations and slope stabilization measures, every monsoon season witness huge loss of human lives and property damage which demands further research studies. The current study focuses on Kavalappara, Malappuram district of Kerala, located on the windward slopes of the South Western Ghats. Following the 2019 landslide disaster, this region has been identified as prone to landslides. In this analysis, a Three-Dimensional (3D) slope stability analysis was conducted using Scoops3D, a software that assesses slope stability across digital landscapes using a 3D method of columns approach. A 1-Arc resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) obtained from USGS Earth Explorer, processed in ArcGIS Pro, served as the primary input for the model. The DEM used here along with additional topographic inputs makes the slope stability analysis more accurate. The results obtained show that as the pore pressure ratio (R_u) increases, the value of the Factor of Safety (FoS) decreases, indicating slope instability. Also, the higher R_u results in lower failure volumes, indicating shallow landslides. The study contributes toward planning of proper landslide mitigation measures and developing landslide early warning systems.

6. Water Quality Assessment in the Adjacent Areas of Tannery Units at Dindigul Corporation

   R. Mafaz Ahamed, B. Nithyalakshmi, S. Venkada Priya, Ganesan Ramachandran, A. Latha, Akilan Sundareswaran, A. Sathya Suriya

   Abstract

   The industries are found to be one of predominant sources of contamination of both surface and groundwater. Tanneries are found to be the most polluting source among the industrial sectors. Previous studies have stated that Tamil Nadu comprises around 3000 tanneries which are located mostly in the districts of Vellore and Dindigul. Dindigul is found to have around 100 tannery units which have drastically contaminated the water bodies in that region. Due to this pathetic scenario, the researchers have suggested to carry out periodical assessment of water quality to preserve the water resources, routine assessments of water quality parameters, and management techniques. As per the suggestion, this study focuses on the present state of water quality in the adjacent areas of tanneries at Dindigul. To ascertain the physico-chemical properties of groundwater in specific areas of Dindigul town, the current study has been conducted. In this study both groundwater and tannery effluent samples were gathered and examined for ten physico-chemical criteria, and the water quality index (WQI) was used to suggest the current state of the water. The findings showed that most of the physico-chemical parameters of the water samples had a significant concentration of dissolved oxygen, fluoride, and chemical and biochemical oxygen demands. The examination of physico-chemical properties of the tannery effluents and groundwater samples collected from 5 different locations indicates that still the water qualities are in a poor state except the specified locations near two tanneries.

7. Ramaipur Reimagined: Unveiling Challenges and Empowering Community Through Participatory Rural Appraisal and Human-Centered Resilience

   Varshini Balaji, Sahil Mishra, Tangudu Ram Chaitanya, Polu Sainadh Reddy, K. P. Vishnu, C. R. Kavitha

   Abstract

   The village of Ramaipur, which is tucked away in India’s busy metropolis, faces a variety of difficulties that could endanger both its ability to grow economically and the welfare of its residents. The long-term effects of unemployment in the area show up as limited prospects and slowed economic development. Farmers who put in a lot of effort see their labors wasted when cattle tramp all over their crops. The foundation of the village is further threatened by an insufficient waste management system, putting the environment and the health of its citizens at risk. This study explores the essence of Ramaipur by applying a special combination of Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools and Human-Centered Design (HCD) principles. Taking on the persona of perceptive observers, we participated in participant observation to painstakingly record the village’s daily routines. In-depth interviews acted as a medium for real conversations with the residents, in which we took on the role of attentive listeners, tuned into their desires, ambitions, and the unsaid struggles they faced. The community convened for brainstorming sessions, which promoted cooperation as we jointly developed solutions that enabled them to take charge of their destiny. This study sheds light on the village of Ramaipur’s steadfast hopes for a sustainable future. It establishes the framework for focused interventions that will enable Ramaipur to prosper and overcome its challenges.

8. Numerical Study on Rubber Sand Mixture as Geotechnical Seismic Base Isolation System

   S. L. Divyasree, K. M. Jithin, Renjitha Varghese

   Abstract

   Rubber Sand Mixtures (RSM) have shown remarkable potential as a Geotechnical Seismic Base Isolation (GSI) system. To evaluate the performance of the RSM as a GSI System, a two-dimensional numerical model was created using PLAXIS 2D and validated with the previous research. The study compared Peak Roof Acceleration (PRA), Peak Footing Acceleration (PFA), Peak Spectral Acceleration (PSA), time period and settlement of medium-rise buildings resting on RSM with that on pure sand. The introduction of the RSM layer as the GSI system resulted in a 21 and 35% reduction in PFA and PRA, respectively. However, the footing settlement was significantly greater than that of a building resting on sand without any RSM bed. The introduction of geogrid resulted in 71% reduction in settlement. Further due to the insertion of geogrid at a depth of 0.03 B_f (width of Raft), maximum PSA for roof reduced by 14% and maximum PSA of footing reduced by 36% as compared to building resting on pure sand.

9. Assessment of Impact of Climate Change Towards Agricultural Drought Using Remote Sensing Indices in Semi-Arid and Humid Regions of South India

   Srinithisathian Sathian, Harani Periyannan, Milan K. Biju, Brema Jayanarayanan

   Abstract

   Agricultural drought being one of the worst consequences of climate change highly impacts the world’s food security. To understand the drought dynamics, continuous monitoring of climatological parameters is essential. Remote sensing-based drought indices are being utilised for the successful drought monitoring in various climatic zones. This study focuses on agricultural drought monitoring in two river basins of South India, belonging to Tamil Nadu (Thamirabarani river basin) and Kerala (Keecheri river basin). Both river basins are situated in two different climatic zones, i.e., semi-arid region and humid region respectively. As the agricultural activities in these river basins highly depend on rainfall, fluctuations in monsoon pattern (Southwest and Northeast), climate change will cause decrease in agricultural productivity of these basins. The main objective of this research is to observe the agricultural drought dynamics in both river basins and analyse the impact of agricultural drought. This study utilises various indices such as Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalised Difference Water Index (NDWI) and Normalised Difference Moisture Index (NDMI) to monitor agricultural drought in both river basins from 2014 to 2023 using Landsat and Sentinel data. A multi-criterion weighted overlay approach was carried out and the results show that in both the basins, more than 60% of the area falls under mild drought during the study period. Occurrence of deficit rainfall during the years 2016 and 2019 has increased the area falling under mild drought in both Thamirabarani and Keecheri river basins respectively.

10. Exploring the Significance of Social-Ecological Systems Approach in Urban Green Infrastructure Planning for Sustainable Climate Resilient Cities

    Aggin Maria James, P. K. Amritha

    Abstract

    The world is facing a myriad of challenges posed by climate change. When coupled with accelerated urbanization these challenges are multiplied. To face these it is necessary to have sustainable and resilient infrastructure. Along with grey infrastructure, it is essential to consider green spaces, waterbodies, wetlands, parks, gardens, etc. as a part of a city’s infrastructure, as they provide Ecosystem Services (ES) vital for survival and well-being of all, and reduce the load on traditional grey infrastructure. This concept is termed as Green Infrastructure (GI). When effectively planned and implemented, GI forms a Social-Ecological System (SES) where society works on maintaining and protecting ecology, and is in turn provided with ES. This paper explores how SES approach towards GI planning can result in better system resilience while facing climate change challenges. This includes reviewing academic papers where SES approach towards GI is discussed, delineating the major thematic areas and their contribution to sustainability and climate resilience, and case studies that analyse this approach in Indian cities. It was found that when GI is panned through SES lens, society and ecology tend to serve and protect each other, thus sustainably maintaining the system resilience while confronting climate change. However, in the selected case studies this approach was found to be limited. The current paper recommends that city authorities should focus on social-ecological aspects like participatory approach, collaboration between organizations, and social and ecological connections and contexts while planning for GI.

11. Experimental Assessment of a Frequency Adaptive Feedback Mechanism for a Three-Dimensional Structural System Including Perturbation

    Srilatha Abhishek, Deepthi Pilakkat, Sanjukta Chakraborty

    Abstract

    The performance of any control mechanism degrades in practice due to the deviation of the structural system and the frequency regime of the excitation to the initial form. This study experimentally investigated the effectiveness of a frequency adaptive control strategy for a three-dimensional structural system when subjected to control input. Initially, the control was designed in the independent modal space of a generalized symmetric structural system to control the lateral degrees of freedom. A closed-loop experimental study was performed on a scaled symmetric single-story frame structure based on frequency adaptive control for a low, near-resonance, and high-frequency sinusoidal excitation with respect to the fundamental natural frequency of the symmetric system. The performance of the proposed frequency adaptive control was compared with respect to the existing linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) control strategy. In a later stage, a perturbed structural system was considered and controlled with the same control input designed for the symmetric system subjected to sinusoidal excitations. The structural responses were evaluated in terms of lateral and torsional modes of vibrations for the controlled symmetric and perturbed structural systems with respect to the uncontrolled system behavior based on the adopted control mechanism along with the existing LQG control.

12. Empowering Rural Communities: Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure Development in Kattunayakan Theru Village, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu

    Sagiraju Harinadha Raju, Jaswanth Godavarthi, Peddineni Venkata Sai Rajesh Kumar, S. Jagrath, P. Arjun

    Abstract

    This paper presents a detailed case study of the tribal community of Kattunayakan Theru, a rural village in Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu, as a Live-in-Labs® program for rural development and sustainable capacity building. The village faces major social and economic challenges, including lack of livelihood opportunities, lack of education, and poor infrastructure. Through Participatory Rural Assessment (PRA) and Human-Centered Design (HCD) methodologies, key issues such as water scarcity, poor sanitation, and high dropout rates especially limited income, thereby perpetuating a cycle of poverty in the community. To address these challenges, this study proposes a comprehensive solution focused on empowering rural women through skill development in tailoring, which has been identified as a sustainable livelihood opportunity appropriate to cultural intelligence. Combining skills development, educational outreach, and entrepreneurship, the project aims to provide a sustainable model of rural sustainable development that can be replicated in other areas facing similar challenges quite. The study highlights the importance of community empowerment through participatory approaches, ensuring that solutions are locally driven and sustainable in the long term.

13. Thermal Analysis of Building Insulated with PCM-Based Cement Mortar Wall Panel

    Sushreeta Dora, Frédéric Kuznik, Mini K. Madhavan

    Abstract

    Thermal behavior of cement-based mortar, which is commonly used for plastering in buildings, can be significantly improved by integrating phase change materials (PCMs). PCMs are known for their ability to hold and release heat, making them excellent materials for improving the thermal performance of buildings. This study explores the thermal analysis of a building incorporated with PCM-based cement mortar wall panel using COMSOL Multiphysics® software. A PCM is prepared using vermiculite which is impregnated with capric acid (CA) and absolute ethanol (AE) which has proven significant thermal stability. The combination of PCM, coconut fiber, and nano silica incorporated in cement mortar sample demonstrated superior mechanical and thermal properties among the different cement mortar composites. The inclusion of these materials helps to manage hydration heat and improves thermal insulation, reducing the risk of thermal stress and cracking. The simulation findings indicate that these composites can significantly improve thermal comfort in buildings, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient solution compared to non-insulated building structures.

14. Deflouridation of Water Using Tea Ash

    A. S. Ananda Krishnan, Sreetha Lekshmi, Narasimha Reddy Chada, Gayathri N. P., Geena Prasad, Deepa Indira Nair

    Abstract

    Water is essential for all life forms. The water we intake every day can be contaminated by natural sources or industrial effluents. One such contaminant is fluoride, which in excess harms health like children’s black brains, dental fluorosis, arthritis, osteoporosis, chronicle issues, etc. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises a fluoride level in drinking water of 0.5–1 part per million (ppm). Modern techniques employed in defluoridation are very expensive and time-consuming, which will result in the need for cheap and efficient methods that we could easily implement in our houses. This study emphasizes the effectiveness of a biosorbent—tea ash in the elimination of fluoride ions, determining adsorbent dosage, pH, and optimum contact time for defluoridation. This approach has the benefit of making a cheaper and more environmentally friendly solution to the risk produced by the consumption of water containing fluoride.

15. Empowering Rural Communities for Sustainable Waste Management: A Community-Driven Approach

    R. B. Sujjanth, E. Keerthana, S. Harini, D. Harshit Royal, Binod Mandal, Melvina Jose, Samarjeet Vashisth, Vinata Sai, Souresh Cornet

    Abstract

    Efficient waste management is crucial for sustainable growth in rural areas, yet this issue is often overlooked due to a lack of infrastructure and resources. This paper presents a case study of Krishnappa Nagara, a semi-rural neighborhood of Bengaluru in the South Indian state of Karnataka, where community-driven waste management strategies were implemented to address urgent waste disposal and environmental health concerns. Utilizing participatory research methods and active community engagement, the study identified critical gaps in waste management, including inadequate segregation practices and limited knowledge of environmentally friendly disposal techniques. In response, an affordable and scalable solution tailored to the village’s specific needs was proposed, incorporating upcycling, small-scale composting, and household waste segregation. The findings illustrate how grassroots engagement can foster long-term resilience and sustainability in rural communities and highlight the essential role of community involvement in promoting sustainable waste practices.

16. Stabilizing Landslide-Prone Soil Using Alccofine: A Potential Mitigation Method for Landslides in Shirur Highway

    H. N. Ramya, M. A. Nagesh

    Abstract

    Landslides triggered by heavy rainfall pose significant hazards in steep, loose-soiled regions, leading to infrastructure damage and loss of life. Addressing these challenges requires effective mitigation strategies. Study explores the effectiveness of Alccofine 1203, on the engineering properties of landslide-prone soil in Monnageri village, Kodagu, Karnataka. Soil samples treated with varying concentrations of Alccofine were tested for liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, compaction characteristics, and unconfined compression strength. The results showed significant improvements in soil stability and strength parameters with increasing Alccofine dosage. Specifically, the plasticity index decreased as Alccofine concentration increased, indicating reduced soil susceptibility to volume changes. Compaction tests demonstrated an increase in soil density up to 6% Alccofine addition, beyond which density declined, accompanied by an increase in optimum moisture content. Unconfined compression tests revealed higher strength values with longer curing periods and higher Alccofine concentrations, attributed to the formation of secondary cementitious products over time. These findings highlight Alccofine’s effectiveness as stabilizing agent for landslide-prone soils, offering sustainable improvement in soil properties while utilizing industrial by-products. This research supports the use of Alccofine in engineering practices aimed at mitigating landslide risks and enhancing environmental sustainability. The findings suggest that similar stabilization techniques may be applied to other regions, like Shirur highway, Ankola which experienced a massive landslide on 16th July 2024 after thorough investigation.

17. A Review on Sustainable Alternatives to Stubble Burning in Indian Agriculture

    Battula Pujith, Radharapu Karthikeyan, Vishnu Priya

    Abstract

    This paper explores the harmful effects of stubble burning on air quality, soil fertility, and public health, particularly in South Asia, with a focus on India. Through an extensive review of literature and data analysis, the study underscores how stubble burning significantly contributes to air pollution by releasing gaseous pollutants such as methane, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and particulate matter. The research methodology included analyzing stubble production in India, reasons behind practicing stubble burning and evaluating the potential economic and environmental advantages of alternative management practices. The findings highlight the urgent need for programs that raise awareness among farmers about sustainable alternatives and the broader impacts of stubble burning. This review focuses on presenting a case toward adopting proactive methods that incorporate strategies for evidence-based, most recent practices for sustainable agriculture. This review is designed to provide the scope for analysis of the critical gaps left by previous studies by integrating new findings and practices into the historical understanding of the case. Among other things, it proposes new approaches for improving the health of soils and minimizing environmental impact caused by traditional practices such as stubble burning in support of sustainable farming practices that offer environmental, economic, and long-term farm productivity benefits.

18. Biosorption of Synthetic Dye by Waste Derived Sorbent: Preparation, Characterization, and Kinetic Isotherm Study

    Chandrasekhar Vyshak, Sekar Sowndarya, Minna Gopikrishna, Chandrasekaran Ramprasad

    Abstract

    With contaminants including organic and inorganic substances introduced into aquatic ecosystems on a daily basis, water contamination poses a major risk to human health as well as the environment. Water contamination can be effectively removed through symbiotic action of biodegradation and adsorption which are more well-liked inexpensive, and sustainable techniques. In our present study, we perfected the use of green adsorbents such as Gelatine and powdered biochar from waste for removing two inorganic dyes from wastewater samples. The characterization of green adsorbents like the surface morphology, and physic-chemical compositions were performed using FTIR and XRD. The two synthetic dyes used in the adsorption kinetics and equilibrium investigation were methylene blue (MB) and methylene red (MR). By altering the reaction time and pollutant concentration, the equilibrium kinetics investigation was carried out, and it was discovered that the equilibrium time for MB and MR was greater than 180 min. Orange peel waste derived biochar was shown to have a maximal adsorption capacity of 0.0367 mg/g for MB and 0.0399 mg/g for MR. An isotherm study was also conducted for the acquired results using Langmuir and Freundlich models. While Gelatine can dissolve fully, we conclude that powdered biochar had an effective clearance rate of over 65% for colors. In conclusion, green sorbents are effective for usage in industrial wastewater treatment plants and other emerging pollutants removal. Additionally, studies might look into various green sorbents and how well they work on a pilot size to remove contaminants from water samples.