Shiwanka V. Wanasinghe joined ORNL’s Building Envelope Materials Research Group as a Postdoctoral Research Associate on February 19, 2024. Shiwanka completed her Ph.D. in Chemistry from Miami University in Ohio, in 2023. During her Ph.D. studies, she was part of the Konkolewicz Group, focusing her research on synthetic organic polymer materials. She studied self-healing polymers and their potential applications in adhesives and soft robotics. In addition, Shiwanka conducted research to identify similarities and differences between materials synthesized via controlled polymerization techniques; that is, Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) and Reversible Addition Fragmentation Chain Transfer Polymerization (RAFT). Moreover, she worked to enhance the properties of interpenetrated networks by introducing dynamic bonds.
In her role at ORNL, she applies her polymer chemistry expertise to lead experimental efforts on next‑generation foam insulation materials, including systems targeting R‑10 per inch performance and advanced barrier facers that slow thermal aging. She also works on bio‑based insulation, fire‑resistant materials for building envelopes, and phase‑change materials. Her contributions have earned significant recognition, including two patents, an R&D 100 Award (2025), and the ORNL Best Postdoc in Research award (2025).
Links
Publications
Mar, 2026
Conference Paper
Enhancing The Thermal Resistivity of Rigid Polyisocyanurate Foam Insulation
