Ms. Shweta Kannan will present her APS as per the details below:    Date: 23 February 2024, Friday

Time: 02.30 - 03.30 hrs.

Venue: Conference Room No.1

Topic: Enhancing Sustainability and Affordability of Ferrocement Water Tanks in Rural India

Guide: Prof Chaaruchandra Korde 

RPC members: Prof. Satish B Agnihotri, Prof. Swathy Manohar

Abstract:    In light of the government's ambitious goals, such as the Jal Jeevan mission, aimed at providing access to tapped water for every household, the need for sustainable and cost-effective water storage solutions becomes paramount. These solutions would contribute to efficient water management by storing excess water during periods of abundance, mitigating the impact of erratic water supply or shortages. Sustainable water storage solutions play a crucial role in reducing dependence on energy-intensive water pumping, contributing to environmental conservation and long-term resource sustainability. By incorporating cost-effective technologies, these solutions make access to clean water more affordable, aligning with the broader goal of achieving universal access to safe water for all.   Ferrocement has a variety of application due to its unique mechanical properties, including eco-friendliness, advanced acoustic technology, high tensile strength, increased hardness, fire resistance, water resistance, crack resistance, light weight, durability and cost-effectiveness. This research aims to investigate the feasibility of using bamboo as an alternative reinforcement material in ferrocement water tanks in rural India. Bamboo, due to its abundance, low cost, and sustainability, presents a promising alternative to steel reinforcements, which are expensive and often prone to corrosion in rural environments. The research will involve experimental testing to compare the mechanical properties, durability, and cost-effectiveness of bamboo-reinforced ferrocement tanks with steel-reinforced ferrocement tanks. The experimental setup will include constructing small-scale tanks using both reinforcement types and subjecting them to various loading and environmental conditions. The outcomes of this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the viability of bamboo as a sustainable alternative reinforcement in ferrocement water tanks, particularly in resource-constrained rural areas. These findings can potentially contribute to the development of cost-effective and environmentally friendly water storage solutions for rural communities in India and other similar contexts.