The National Engineering Research & Development Center (NERDC) of Sri Lanka serves as a catalyst for technological advancement and innovation within the country’s engineering landscape. Established under its first Chairman, Prof. K. K. Y. W. Perera – Senior Electrical Engineer in Katubedda Moratuwa, with the vision of promoting research, development, and the application of engineering solutions to address national challenges, NERDC plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government institutions.
Since its inception, NERDC has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s engineering capabilities, ranging from infrastructure development to sustainable energy solutions and beyond. Through its diverse portfolio of projects, rigorous research endeavors, and a commitment to excellence, NERDC continues to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development and technological progress of Sri Lanka.
National Engineering Research & Development Center (NERDC), consists of divisions for conducting R&D and offer industrial services and each division stands as a vital component in the institution’s overarching mission of advancing technological innovation and research in Sri Lanka. With a rich legacy spanning several decades, NERDC boasts a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing various fields crucial to national development.
R&D and Services in Civil Engineering
Under the leadership of esteemed figure like Vidyajothi Dr. A. N. S. Kulasinghe, NERDC renowned for its groundbreaking work in cost-effective building technology, which revolutionized the construction practices nationwide. Today, its focus remains steadfast on Research and Development (R&D), striving to introduce novel construction materials and methodologies to propel Sri Lanka’s infrastructural growth. Through extensive training programs, NERDC endeavors to empower entrepreneurs and foster innovation in the construction sector.
“The Civil Engineering Department of NERDC is at the forefront of introducing sustainable, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing technologies in construction. With a rich history of innovation spanning four decades, CED has pioneered groundbreaking approaches that prioritize both efficiency and environmental stewardship,” Eng. (Ms.) Chrishanthi Jayakody explained.
“One of CED’s core objectives is the development and promotion of sustainable building technologies that minimize environmental impact while maximizing cost-effectiveness. Through rigorous research and development initiatives, CED has spearheaded the adoption of eco-friendly construction materials and practices, reducing carbon footprint and resource consumption in building projects across Sri Lanka,” she added.
Moreover, Eng. Jayakody said today NERDC places a strong emphasis on incorporating aesthetic elements into its sustainable technologies, recognizing the importance of architectural beauty in enhancing the built environment. “By seamlessly integrating aesthetics with functionality and sustainability, civil engineering innovations in the field of construction not only contribute to a more visually appealing urban landscape but also inspire a deeper appreciation for environmentally conscious design principles,” she explained.
Through a combination of cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and knowledge dissemination efforts, in the field of construction, NERDC continues to lead the way in revolutionizing the construction sector in Sri Lanka. By spearheading sustainable, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing technologies, NERDC is driving positive change and laying the foundation for a more resilient and vibrant built environment for future generations.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
NERDC has initiated its R&D activities in late 1970s to provide consumer electronics to meet the requirement at the national level. “Prashakthi” light system was a groundbreaking technology to popularize in the country, given as a solution to those who stay away from the national grid in rural areas. NERDC conducted R&D in the field of electrical and electronics engineering, NERDC played a pivotal role developing components such as permanent magnet generator and device controlling units for standalone electricity generation systems such as battery charging wind turbine and micro hydro systems. First grid connection of mini hydro plant was one of the achievements.
“Electrical and Electronics Engineering have made a notable contribution and developing innovations continuously and work to implement the R&D innovations in the field” Eng. K Y H D Shantha explained.
Mechanical and Chemical Engineering
In the fields of mechanical engineering and chemical engineering, NERDC has made noticeable contribution to the economy of Sri Lanka. Under the guidance of Vidya Jothi Dr. A N S Kulasinghe, NERDC introduced biomass gasification technology for crematoriums. Later, it was further developed to cost effective LP Gas driven crematoriums. Today, at least 132 crematoriums installed in the country were implemented under NERDC licensees.
NERDC’s virgin coconut oil extraction technology for domestic and SME sector made a remarkable interest on virgin coconut oil and leads to initiate laser scale industries.
“NERDC has significantly influenced various agricultural domains, such as tea, coconut, cinnamon, cashew nut and rice, aiming to improve production and reduce post-harvest losses. Additionally, NERDC’s endeavors encompass the development of machinery for Ayurveda applications, further showcasing its commitment to advancing technology across diverse sectors,” Eng. Shantha explained.
Mechatronics Engineering
R&D activities and engineering services offered in the field of mechatronics engineering of NERDC aims at enhancing industrial processes and efficiency by leveraging automation and robotics. In addition to these core responsibilities, in the field of mechatronics engineering, NREDC offers designing customized training and initiatives for industrial professionals, aid inventors in refining their products, consultation services and guidance to industry and governmental entities.
Together with these multi-disciplinary research teams within NERDC, form a cohesive network of expertise dedicated to driving Sri Lanka’s technological progress and socio-economic development. Through their collective efforts in research, development, and knowledge dissemination, NERDC remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping a brighter, more innovative future for the nation.
Some of the major recently developed successful technologies
- NERDC foot bridge technology for rural areas
- NERDC LP Gas crematorium
- Pre-stressed concrete retaining wall
- Pre-stressed concrete boundary wall
- Pre-stressed, pre-cast concrete staircases
- Pre-stressed, pre-cast flat-soffit slab system
- Light weight wall construction technology
- Light weight block construction technology
- Cement stabilized earth block technology
- Industrial level coconut de-husking machine
- Refrigeration and storage system for multi-day fishing boats
- Biomass fuel dryer to produce good quality Maldives fish
Facilities at NERDC
NERDC is equipped with cutting-edge facility with modern technology, providing inventors and industrialized with the resources needed to transform their ideas into prototypes. It offers state-of-the-art design facilities utilizing CAD/CAM software, along with manufacturing capabilities utilizing modern CNC machines. Additionally, NERDC provides comprehensive support in developing business plans and offers consultancy services on intellectual property (IP) issues.
“NERDC boasts a range of laboratory facilities outfitted with the latest technology to conduct various tests and analyses. The Lamp Testing Lab ensures the quality and performance of lamps, contributing to standardized lighting in offices and public buildings. Similarly, the Battery Testing Lab assesses vehicle batteries against stringent quality standards before market release. The Refrigerator Testing Lab conducts thorough tests on refrigerators to meet international standards before market distribution. NERDC recently opened an electric vehicle testing laboratory to provide technical input to department of motor vehicles for quality assurance of e-vehicles registered in Sri Lanka” said Eng. Dr. Manjula Siriwardhana, Senior Research Engineer at NERDC. NERDC also offers energy audits, Carbon Footprint reports, Water audits to the industry.
She added that the Waste Water Testing Lab plays a crucial role in monitoring and managing factory wastewater, offering effective solutions for waste water management. “The Tensile Testing Unit evaluates the tensile strength of concrete components, while the Concrete Block Testing Unit ensures the quality of concrete blocks. Additionally, the Soil Testing Unit examines soil suitability for manufacturing cement soil blocks, contributing to quality control in construction materials. These facilities collectively demonstrate NERDC’s commitment to innovation, quality assurance, and environmental sustainability across various sectors,” Dr. Siriwardhana explained.
“NERDC, the hub of technological innovation, has produced a range of innovative products as per the requirement of the industry. From life-saving medical equipment like Oxygen Concentrators to efficient solutions for everyday tasks such as the Automated 19 Litre Water Bottle Washing Machine, NERDC’s creations blend cutting-edge technology with practical functionality. Additionally, the Compost Shredder and Medium-Scale Compost Turner cater to the growing demand for sustainable waste management solutions. Not to be overlooked is the Coir Braiding Machine, simplifying the production process for coir-based products and biomass pyrolyzer to produce bio-char to be used as a soil stabilizer. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, NERDC continues to pave the way for a brighter, more efficient future,” NERDC’s Deputy Director General – Services, Eng. Shantha Jayasinghe said.
NERDC Industry Collaboration
NERDC opened the Business Development Centre to initiate partnership with public and private sector institutions in Sri Lanka for technology development to support SMEs for local value addition, initiate joint research activities.
NERDC Technology Park and Engineering Museum
The NERDC Technology Park and Engineering Museum serve as crucial platforms for disseminating engineering and technological knowledge, fostering socio-economic development in Sri Lanka. Their overarching goals include preserving and sharing information on ancient technologies, nurturing the younger generation’s education and cultural development, and optimizing local resources for modern engineering advancements. Moreover, these initiatives aim to educate the youth on Sri Lanka’s engineering heritage, spark creativity, and inspire innovation. The Technology Park showcases NERDC’s 45 years of engineering achievements, offering a space for technology display and entrepreneurship support. Meanwhile, the Engineering Museum provides an immersive experience for school students to learn about the evolution of local engineering, from traditional to modern eras, aiming to educate, entertain, and engage people from diverse backgrounds.
As NERDC celebrates its 50th anniversary, it is a momentous occasion to reflect on the institution’s profound impact on Sri Lanka’s engineering and technological landscape. Over the past five decades, NERDC has been at the forefront of innovation, spearheading groundbreaking research, and development initiatives across various sectors. From pioneering advancements in medical sciences, biotechnology, and information technology to revolutionizing construction technology and renewable energy, NERDC’s contributions have been instrumental in driving socio-economic progress in the country. The establishment of the NERDC Technology Park and Engineering Museum underscores the institution’s commitment to preserving engineering heritage, nurturing future talent, and fostering innovation. As we commemorate this milestone, let us celebrate NERDC’s remarkable journey and the countless achievements that have shaped Sri Lanka’s engineering legacy.
