In a significant milestone for applied research and industry collaboration, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) and Tokyo Cement (Lanka) PLC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 29, 2024. The MoU formalizes a collaborative research project to investigate the incorporation of reduced-graphene oxide (rGO) into rubber composites for the production of heavy-duty vehicle tires. This pioneering research aims to advance material science and industrial applications in Sri Lanka’s rubber sector.
Representing Tokyo Cement at the signing ceremony were Mr. M. Thayananthan, Chief Operating Officer; Dr. M.G.M.U. Ismail, Director of the Construction Research Center; and Mr. Yasas. Representing USJ, Senior Professor Pathmalal Manage, the Vice Chancellor; and Professor Thusitha Etampawala, Director of the Center for Nanocomposite Research (CNR) at the Faculty of Applied Sciences attended the event.
Professor Etampawala not only led the discussions that initiated this partnership but also serves as the project’s principal investigator. The project is further supported by two eminent academics: Senior Professor Laleen Karunanayake from the Department of Polymer Science, a leading specialist in the dry rubber field, and Professor A.R. Kumarasinghe, Chair Professor in the Department of Physics, who brings expertise in carbon-based nanomaterials. Together, their interdisciplinary knowledge reinforces the project’s success.
Under this collaboration, the Tokyo Cement team will synthesize the necessary rGO, while the USJ team focuses on characterizing the material and incorporating it into rubber matrices. This joint effort aims to fine-tune the properties of the composite to meet the demanding requirements of heavy-duty tires.
The collaboration marks a significant step in aligning USJ’s research focus with industry needs. Tokyo Cement has fully funded the project, demonstrating its commitment to fostering innovation. In addition to research support, the company has sponsored a research assistant position, enabling the selected candidate to enroll in an MPhil program at the Faculty of Graduate Studies, USJ.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Thayananthan emphasized the importance of bridging academia and industry to drive innovation and tackle real-world challenges. Professor Etampawala noted that this partnership aligns with USJ’s mission to advance applied research and foster meaningful industry relationships. This collaboration not only strengthens ties between academia and industry but also paves the way for advancements in sustainable materials and innovative applications in the rubber industry. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura is proud to lead this initiative, which reflects its commitment to research excellence and societal impact.
