National Water Supply and Drainage Board

About Us:

As a leading utility service provider and engineering organization, the NWSDB is committed to embracing cutting-edge technologies, fostering innovation, and supporting industrial growth in the water and sanitation sector.

The R&D Section plays a crucial role in achieving these goals by spearheading initiatives aimed at improving service efficiency and customer satisfaction. Through continuous research, we work to deliver sustainable, science-based solutions to real-world challenges in water supply, wastewater treatment, and system management.

The role of R&D is central to the NWSDB’s growth and sustainability. It drives change, promotes the application of new knowledge, and strengthens the organization’s ability to respond to emerging challenges. With a professional workforce of over 600 Engineers and more than 300 graduates from diverse fields including Management, Finance, Chemistry, Sociology, Human Resources, and Geology, the NWSDB has the human capital and expertise to lead impactful research and innovation.

The R&D Section serves as the backbone of innovation within the NWSDB, contributing to problem-solving, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement across all departments.

Vision of the R&D Section

To be a pioneering centre for scientific and industrial research in the fields of water and wastewater.

Mission of the R&D Section

To inspire innovation and add value to the organization by integrating emerging technologies and creating a supportive research platform.

Our Goals:

Integrate novel technologies to enhance water treatment, wastewater management, and laboratory analysis capabilities.
Develop sustainable solutions to address existing water and wastewater quality issues.
Introduce new materials and approaches to improve distribution networks.
Utilize research findings to reduce Non-Revenue Water (NRW) and provide cost-effective solutions to associated challenges.

In-House Research

We conduct high-impact, in-house research to explore innovative concepts, optimize operations, and address prevailing challenges within the sector. This includes cost-effective operation and maintenance (O&M) strategies and technology integration to align with institutional objectives.

Collaborative Research

The R&D Section fosters partnerships with both internal departments and external institutions to promote knowledge exchange and technical collaboration. These joint efforts strengthen our research capacity and bring in diverse expertise.

Research Facilitation

We support research by providing access to well-equipped laboratories, technical assistance, and an archive of previous studies. This enables researchers to build on existing knowledge and progress their work efficiently.

Research Guidance and Capacity Building

Our team offers mentorship, consultation, and training opportunities to emerging researchers within the NWSDB. By sharing expertise and resources, we help ensure that research efforts yield impactful and practical outcomes.

Annual R&D Symposium

The NWSDB organizes an annual R&D Symposium to showcase research findings selected by a professional review committee. The symposium provides a platform for both internal staff and external researchers to present their work, exchange ideas, and contribute to the advancement of the water and sanitation sector.

Projects / Activities:

Production of Hydrated Lime Solution Using Calcined Dolomite

This project explored the use of locally available dolomite for producing hydrated lime required in water purification. Patent certification was obtained in January 2025, and the solution is now being implemented in NWSDB treatment plants, reducing dependency on imports and lowering operational costs.

Utilization of Lime Sludge in Agriculture and Construction

Research was conducted to reuse lime sludge from treatment plants in sustainable applications. Studies covered soil pH correction, fertilizer production, and skim coat manufacturing. Pot trials, nutrient analysis, and field experiments confirmed its potential in soil pH correction in the field of agriculture.

Development of GO–ZnO Epoxy Anticorrosive Coating

A novel solventless anticorrosive epoxy was synthesized using Graphene Oxide (GO) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO). The optimal formulation significantly reduced corrosion in saline environments. A patent has been applied for, and findings were published in Springer Nature.

GO–Fiber Filter Media & GO-PSU Membranes

Low-cost GO-coated natural fibers and polysulfone membranes were developed for heavy-metal and ammonium removal. Batch tests achieved up to 96% removal of Mn²⁺ and Fe³⁺, while membranes provided ~70% Mn removal. These materials show promise for affordable and effective water purification.

Hydrothermal Carbonization of Sewage Sludge

This project investigated converting sewage sludge into hydrochar and liquid fertilizer through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). Experiments, including pot trials and leaching tests, confirmed improvements in soil nutrients and fuel properties. The process demonstrated potential for sustainable waste management.

Localized Development of On-Site Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl)

Research focused on producing sodium hypochlorite from common salt using divided and undivided electrochemical cells. The method ensures continuous dosing, higher safety, and reduced costs (Rs. 800 saving per kg of chlorine). The technology is already implemented in NWSDB operations.

Mn (II) Removal Using Biological-Trickling Filter with Aeration

Pilot-scale studies were conducted on manganese removal using biological trickling filters and aerated roughing filters. Continuous operation achieved 90–95% Mn removal, meeting drinking water standards and offering a sustainable treatment option.

Utilization of Water Treatment Plant Sludge in Industrial Products

Collaborations with national industries explored the use of sludge in making ceramic tiles, cement blocks, and roof tiles, interlock tiles and Eco bricks. Trials identified optimal mixing ratios and confirmed commercial viability. Patent certification has been applied for, paving the way for sustainable reuse of sludge.

Burned Coconut Shells as Filter Media

Burned coconut shells were tested as a low-cost replacement for sand in rapid gravity filtration. Results showed lower attrition loss, reduced backwash water requirement, and longer filter run times, proving it to be an efficient and economical filter medium.

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Development of Water Quality Index (WQI) for Mahaweli River

A comprehensive WQI was developed using CCME, WAI, and AWQI methods to assess Mahaweli River water quality. The index categorizes water into levels ranging from “excellent” to “unsuitable,” providing a valuable tool for monitoring and decision-making.

Media / Publication :

Research Papers:

Madurasingha A.A.D.K., Thathsarani R.K.D., Illangasinghe I.M.W.K., Rajapakse E.P., Wijesinghe M. B. (2022). Use of Dolomite in the Production of Hydrated Lime Required for the Water Purification Plants. International Water Conference (2022), Sri Lanka, pp 18–24. https://www.waterboard.lk/conference/international-water-conference-2022.

Sajitthan, S., Rajapakshe, E.P., Illangasinghe, I.M.W.K., Manatunge, J.M.A. (2023). Reuse Potential of Drinking Water Treatment Plant Sludge for the Manufacture of Concrete Paving Blocks. In: Dissanayake, R., et al. ICSBE 2022. ICSBE 2022. Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering, vol 362. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-3471-3_58

Udawatta O.G.C.K.H.B, Bandara P.P.G.I.P., G.S.D., Sajitthan S., Illangasinghe I.M.W.K., Rajapakse E.P. (2023). Major Influencing Factors to Produce Drinking Bottled Alkaline Water. International Water Conference (2023), Sri Lanka, pp 10–17. https://www.waterboard.lk/conference/international-water-conference-2023.

Chanaka G.S.D., Rajapakse E.P., Illangasinghe I.M.W.K.,(2023). Higher Filter Performance from Burned Coconut Shells Filter Media. International Water Conference (2023), Sri Lanka, pp 18–14 https://www.waterboard.lk/conference/international-water-conference-2023.