AI /DS Research Facility

AI /DS Research Facility

SRI Research Facility

This research establishes the first comprehensive characterization of two of Nepal's most promising structural bamboo species, Bambusa nutans (Mal Bans) and Bambusa balcooa (Dhanu/Haruti Bans), to enable their transition from traditional vernacular construction to engineered, code-compliant structural design. Through an integrated framework combining geometric characterization and mechanical characterization via ISO and ASTM standards, this study provides the foundational data necessary for rational structural analysis. Statistical analysis of geometric variability informs the development of species-specific construction grades, creating a direct quality control linkage between bamboo treatment facilities and the construction industry. The resulting mathematical models and design values empower architects, engineers, and builders to confidently analyze and design bamboo structures using this sustainable, carbon-sequestering, renewable biomaterial.

SRI Research Facility

Past earthquakes in Nepal have shown that traditional stone masonry homestays are highly vulnerable to seismic damage due to irregular construction, lack of engineered design and improper placement of openings. Doors and windows, while essential for lighting and ventilation, significantly reduce wall stiffness and often act as initiation points for structural failure. Existing building codes provide only general guidelines and are not specifically tailored to rural stone masonry structures. This research aims to develop a numerical optimization framework to determine the optimal size, shape and position of wall openings by balancing seismic safety, traditional architectural aesthetics and indoor comfort. The study involves parametric modelling, nonlinear finite element analysis using OpenSeesPy and performance-based evaluation using damage index constraints. Comfort parameters such as ventilation and daylight are integrated into the optimization process. Based on the findings, this research will propose practical design guidelines to enhance the resilience, livability and sustainability of stone masonry homestays in Nepal.

SRI Research Facility

Stone masonry buildings, widely used in Nepal and subcontinent for their low cost and cultural significance, have demonstrated severe seismic vulnerability, as evidenced during the 2015 Gorkha earthquake. Conventional numerical approaches are inadequate for realistically capturing these behaviors. This research therefore aims to develop an advanced 3D AEM-based numerical tool capable of simulating the complete collapse process of stone masonry structures by explicitly modeling irregular stone units, nonlinear mortar interfaces, contact and impact after separation, and progressive damage under seismic loading. The model will be calibrated and validated using experimental data on unreinforced stone masonry with mud mortar and observed earthquake damage patterns. The expected outcomes include a validated 3D collapse simulation tool and a comprehensive seismic performance evaluation framework.

SRI Research Facility

Past earthquakes in Nepal have shown that many heritage masonry buildings are highly vulnerable to seismic damage. These structures behave very differently from modern concrete and steel buildings. Although timber bands and joints were traditionally used to strengthen buildings while preserving their original character, their actual effectiveness during earthquakes is still not well understood. This research aims to evaluate the role of timber bands and joints in improving the seismic performance of heritage masonry buildings. The study includes field surveys and data collection, microtremor testing to identify the dynamic behavior of buildings, and numerical analysis using AEM tools to simulate earthquake response. Based on the results, the research will propose safe, sustainable, and low-carbon strengthening strategies to support long-term protection of Nepal’s heritage structures.

SRI Research Facility

In the rural and hilly regions of Nepal, stone masonry structures with mud mortar are widely used for their low cost, local material availability, and cultural significance, yet they are highly vulnerable to earthquakes. This study aims to improve the mechanical performance of stone masonry with mud mortar by incorporating locally available natural additives, specifically lime and plant-based fibers. Laboratory characterization, preparation of mortar mixes with varying proportions, and multiple structural tests will be conducted to evaluate improvements in compressive, bonding, and shear strength. The expected outcomes include enhanced ductility and durability, empirical relationships linking soil properties and additive ratios to mortar performance, and practical guidelines for mix design and local construction practices.

SRI Research Facility

Our ongoing research focuses on prefabricated bamboo wall panels, assessing their structural performance under lateral loads. Each panel consists of a seasoned bamboo frame, clad with flattened bamboo sheets, and reinforced with flat metal diagonal bracing strips and wire mesh to support a mud-lime mortar plaster finish. Inspired by the CBFT wall tests of Base Bahay, this design adapts the concept to more natural and locally available materials, replacing cement-based plaster with mud-lime mortar to enhance sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint. The prefabricated approach yields lightweight, durable panels that accelerate construction timelines, address housing shortages, and provide a low-cost, low-carbon, and culturally appropriate alternative for resilient rural and peri-urban housing in Nepal.