Alyaa H. Abdalsalam; Noor M. Saadoon; Ali A. Ati; S. Dabagh; A. A. Salim
Abstract
In the current study, three distinct synthesis techniques, the gel, co-precipitation, and solid-state method, were employed to synthesize (MgFe2O4)x/ZnO1-x hetero-nanocomposites with varying magnesium ferrite contents (x = 0.03%, 0.06%, and 0.09%). To study the effect of the addition of magnesium ferrite ...
Read More
In the current study, three distinct synthesis techniques, the gel, co-precipitation, and solid-state method, were employed to synthesize (MgFe2O4)x/ZnO1-x hetero-nanocomposites with varying magnesium ferrite contents (x = 0.03%, 0.06%, and 0.09%). To study the effect of the addition of magnesium ferrite nanoparticles on the structural, morphological, thermal, and electrochemical properties of zinc oxide. X–ray diffraction (XRD), Rietveld refinement technique, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and cyclic voltammetry (CV) were used to investigate the samples. The formation of the spinel cubic structure and hexagonal wurtzite structure of the prepared magnesium ferrite/zinc oxide nanocomposites was confirmed by X-ray diffraction, and no extra phases were detected. The Rietveld-refined X-ray diffraction data revealed spinel cubic and hexagonal wurtzite structures with the P63mc and Fd-3m space group, respectively. The crystallite size decreased from 16 to 15 nm upon the substitution of magnesium ferrite nanoparticles, confirming the formation of nano-crystalline MgFe2O4/ZnO nanocomposites. FT-IR spectra were used to verify the absorption bands of MgFe2O4, ZnO, and their composites. FE-SEM images revealed the presence of a slight agglomeration of nanoparticles and a non-uniform size distribution. TEM analysis revealed nearly spherical morphologies for all prepared samples, with an average particle size of 19-22 nm. There is variation in the crystallite size as estimated from the instruments, which may be due to strain. The electrochemical behavior was investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) with a 0.5 M KCl aqueous solution as the electrolyte. The MgFe2O4/ZnO nanocomposite exhibited superior rate performance and cycle stability compared to the other samples when their electrochemical performance was analyzed using cyclic voltammetry (CV). According to the physical results, nanocomposite electrodes exhibited enhanced electrochemical performance, high reversibility, and cycle stability, with specific capacitances ranging from 1.87 F/g (0.01 V) to 7.63 F/g (0.002 V), making them promising candidates for pseudocapacitors.
Kongkoon Tochaiwat; Anake Suwanchaisakul
Abstract
Thailand has experienced a significant concentration of development in Bangkok, leading to a continual and substantial increase in land prices within the capital city. This phenomenon has driven greater interest among investors in the metropolitan areas surrounding Bangkok, which are less dense but show ...
Read More
Thailand has experienced a significant concentration of development in Bangkok, leading to a continual and substantial increase in land prices within the capital city. This phenomenon has driven greater interest among investors in the metropolitan areas surrounding Bangkok, which are less dense but show promising potential for future development. However, investing in these new areas requires extensive knowledge, the experience of professional appraisers, and highly accurate data. Therefore, this research aimed to propose a method for analyzing land value in the Bangkok metropolitan region using the Deep Learning technique. The goal was to offer real estate developers a more precise and reliable tool for evaluating appropriate land prices. The research methodology included the collection of vacant land data within Bangkok and its surrounding provinces from feasyonline.com, a credible real estate data source in Thailand. The data was then analyzed using a Deep Learning technique, considering 29 independent variables that influence land prices. These variables can be grouped into five key factors, ranked by importance: (1) type of business in the area, (2) infrastructure, utilities, and community services, (3) specific physical characteristics of the land, (4) legal and regulatory constraints, and (5) location-related factors. The model developed in this study demonstrated high performance, with a Coefficient of Determination (R²) of 0.71 and a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 6,068.08—both considered acceptable values and better than those of the application’s Auto Model. The research findings can be applied in two main ways. First, in a business context, investors and developers can use the model to support decision-making when acquiring land for new projects, designing project types, and determining appropriate selling prices. Second, in academic development, researchers and interested individuals can adapt the Deep Learning technique for studies involving real estate business analysis with limited data, or customize the database, project types, or incorporate additional variables into the model.
Netty Herawati; Subriyer Nasir; Kiagus A. Roni; Muhammad A. Karim
Abstract
The treatment of petroleum refinery wastewater (PRW) continues to pose a serious environmental issue, particularly due to its high content of heavy metals, especially iron (Fe). This study investigates the adsorption performance and kinetics of iron removal from synthetic petroleum refinery wastewater ...
Read More
The treatment of petroleum refinery wastewater (PRW) continues to pose a serious environmental issue, particularly due to its high content of heavy metals, especially iron (Fe). This study investigates the adsorption performance and kinetics of iron removal from synthetic petroleum refinery wastewater using ceramic adsorbents formulated from a mixture of clay and RCC spent catalysts. The adsorbent is prepared from a mixture of clay and RCC spent catalysts (ratio 1:1) and evaluated through both batch adsorption systems. Adsorption efficiency was tested at different adsorbent dosages (2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 g), contact times (5-60 minutes), and initial iron concentrations (20-100 mg/L). This study successfully demonstrated the high efficiency of ceramic-based adsorbents in removing iron ions from petroleum refinery wastewater. The maximum removal efficiency of 99.94% was achieved under batch conditions using 2.5 g of adsorbent at an initial iron concentration of 40 mg/L with a contact time of 60 minutes. Adsorption equilibrium and kinetic analyses confirmed that the process well described the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second order kinetic models, suggesting monolayer chemisorption on a homogeneous surface with strong interactions between iron ions and the reactive surface site on the adsorbent. The strong linear correlation coefficients (R2 > 0.98 and R2 $ > 0.99, respectively) confirmed the reliability of these models in describing the adsorption mechanism. The use of RCC spent catalyst as a low-cost, thermally stable, and sustainable adsorbent material contributes to both wastewater remediation and industrial waste valorization.
Sabrina Khaldi; Driss Nehari; Abdelkader Youcefi; Bachir Imin
Abstract
A numerical investigation is conducted to improve the overall performance of a photovoltaic (PV) using phase change materials (PCMs) reinforced with different types of foam materials. The PV panel was modelled as an aluminium plate in contact with a rectangular cavity filled with PCM with or without ...
Read More
A numerical investigation is conducted to improve the overall performance of a photovoltaic (PV) using phase change materials (PCMs) reinforced with different types of foam materials. The PV panel was modelled as an aluminium plate in contact with a rectangular cavity filled with PCM with or without foam. The impact of the melting point of PCMs, as well as the effect of adding (Cu), (Al),and (SiC) foam to RT25 on the cooling performance of the PV were analyzed. The results showed that the melting point of MCPs affected the PV temperature, where RT25 reduced 10.7°C compared to RT44,and the addition of foam to PCM with a porosity of 97% and an air permeability index (IPP) of 5 is the most optimal in this system. such as the use of Cu as foam allows an improvement of 16.18% compared to standard PV and 12% compared to the use of PCM alone.This work also highlights the positive impact of improving PV efficiency on economic and environmental aspects. Where the PV/PCM(RT25)+foam(SiC) combination is a high-performance and more economical solution. On the other hand, the proposed cooling system can increase energy production by 24 kWh/m²/year and reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 48 kg/m²/year.
Tanapat Virit; Rerkchai Fooprateepsiri; Kritsada Anantakarn; Bhattharadej Witchayangkoon; Koltouch Anantakarn
Abstract
This paper introduces an advanced smart sea pontoon designed to enhance sea current behavior monitoring in Thailand's coastal areas. Traditional pontoon systems used in surveying practices face operational challenges and limited durability. In response, the newly developed pontoon integrates Internet ...
Read More
This paper introduces an advanced smart sea pontoon designed to enhance sea current behavior monitoring in Thailand's coastal areas. Traditional pontoon systems used in surveying practices face operational challenges and limited durability. In response, the newly developed pontoon integrates Internet of Things (IoT) technology for precise real-time data transmission over long distances, reducing operational duration and minimizing risks to surveying engineer. Constructed with high-density polyethylene or HDPE and reinforced with steel, the pontoon offers superior strength and resistance to withstand marine extreme conditions. Specialized equipment enables convenient data transfer and pontoon monitoring, eliminating the need for physical presence on the pontoon and generating cost savings while providing detailed insights into current speed, direction, temperature, and salinity. This paper explores the design, production, and deployment of the smart sea pontoon, demonstrating its performance in Thailand's marine environments and showcasing its potential to enhance maritime safety and operational efficiency with less cost.
Li Yang; Ahmad S. Hassan; Yasser Arab
Abstract
This study explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing community engagement within urban regeneration projects. AI’s capacity to process vast datasets, analyze trends, and predict outcomes is revolutionizing urban planning by fostering more inclusive, adaptive, ...
Read More
This study explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing community engagement within urban regeneration projects. AI’s capacity to process vast datasets, analyze trends, and predict outcomes is revolutionizing urban planning by fostering more inclusive, adaptive, and responsive urban ecosystems. Through a bibliometric literature review, we examined existing research on AI’s role in democratizing decision-making by aggregating, analyzing, and interpreting residents’ opinions and feedback. The findings demonstrate that AI effectively addresses critical urban challenges, including traffic congestion, environmental degradation, resource allocation, and public safety, thereby enabling smarter, data-driven solutions. Moreover, AI’s ability to identify community needs ensures greater resident participation and more equitable urban development. However, significant challenges remain, particularly concerning data privacy, algorithm transparency, and ethical implications. Addressing these issues requires robust policy frameworks, adaptive governance models, and clear regulatory measures to mitigate risks and promote fairness. In conclusion, while challenges exist, AI holds immense potential to contribute to the development of smarter, more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments, where community voices are prioritized and integrated effectively.
Nabeel Almuramady; M. F. Al-Mayali; Essam L. Esmail; Muhammed A. Muhammed; Zahraa Aqeel A. Jassim; Alaa F. Obaid
Abstract
Planetary gear mechanisms (PGMs) are commonly employed in mechanical applications. Graph theory is a useful tool for synthesizing PGM structures to develop new transmission systems. The synthesis of 1- and 2-degree-of-freedom (DOF) planetary gear trains received a lot of attention. Nevertheless, the ...
Read More
Planetary gear mechanisms (PGMs) are commonly employed in mechanical applications. Graph theory is a useful tool for synthesizing PGM structures to develop new transmission systems. The synthesis of 1- and 2-degree-of-freedom (DOF) planetary gear trains received a lot of attention. Nevertheless, the synthesis results are inconsistent because previous graph representations were insufficient for the synthesis processes. This paper proposes a graph model that improves upon earlier models, introducing the concept of type-2 pseudo-isomorphic graphs. The vertex levels are used to construct PGM-spanning trees and define geared graphs. This approach avoids pseudo-isomorphic graphs and maintains a one-to-one correspondence between PGM elements and the graph. The 6-link 2-DOF PGM synthesis demonstrated the current graph representation, yielding 24 non-isomorphic mechanisms of 11 or more than previously reported. Possible explanations for the inconsistency of synthesis results with earlier studies are investigated, and the advantages of the modified graph over existing approaches are discussed in detail.
Ibrahim Saraireh; Faten Albtoush; Nawzat D. Aljbour
Abstract
The construction sector in Jordan plays a major role in economic development. However, it suffers from numerous issues in most projects. Contractual problems are one such issue that needs to be addressed. Therefore, the current study aims to provide an effective framework for BIM adoption in Jordanian ...
Read More
The construction sector in Jordan plays a major role in economic development. However, it suffers from numerous issues in most projects. Contractual problems are one such issue that needs to be addressed. Therefore, the current study aims to provide an effective framework for BIM adoption in Jordanian construction projects, as BIM is an effective approach to improving the performance of the construction sector. To achieve this, the researchers adopted a quantitative data collection approach using a questionnaire as the data collection tool. The collected data was analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) to categorize the study variables. The results revealed that the critical issue in the Jordanian construction sector is discrepancies between specifications, drawings, and contract documents, with an RII of 0.74. The study also found several barriers to BIM adoption in Jordan, such as weak construction contracts, with an RII of 0.75. The framework presented in this study is important for stakeholders in the Jordanian construction sector to address the issues that hinder BIM adoption. The study recommends providing training courses on BIM software for engineers working in the construction sector to enhance their efficiency.
Nawras Shareef Sabeeh
Abstract
The oxidation process of thiols with air is industrially used to treat light petroleum products in the presence of an alkaline solution and a supported catalyst. A low-cost, traditional dye, cobaltous phthalocyanine salt, was used as the active component for catalyst preparation. The supported catalyst ...
Read More
The oxidation process of thiols with air is industrially used to treat light petroleum products in the presence of an alkaline solution and a supported catalyst. A low-cost, traditional dye, cobaltous phthalocyanine salt, was used as the active component for catalyst preparation. The supported catalyst was experimentally prepared by impregnation the activated carbon (dp = 1.971 mm) with the uric dye solution in a laboratory batch unit. The prepared catalyst was tested for the oxidation of thiols present in row kerosene. All kinetic experiments were carried out at constant pressure concurrent fixed-bed unit. The effect of temperature and LHSV on conversion percent was investigated. Attempts were made to correlate the data with first and second-order reactions, and it was found that the first-order kinetics correlates the data well with an activation energy of 24.48 kJ/mol. This indicates that the synthesised catalyst is effective and necessary for the reaction to proceed at moderate temperatures with a sufficient rate. Also, the change of enthalpy and entropy were found to be equal to 21.94 kJ/mol and 0.153 kJ/mol K, respectively, with an average Gibbs free energy change of -24.802 kJ/mol. These values indicate that the reaction is weakly spontaneous and thermodynamically favourable, and could proceed at a suitable rate in the presence of the prepared catalyst. Furthermore, the Thiele modulus and internal effectiveness factor were examined, and it was found that the internal diffusion is the major resistance for the oxidation reaction proceeding, and the oxidation reaction takes place only on the outer layer of the surface of the pellets.
Ghanim SH. Sadiq; Salsabil K. Mohammed; Saif M. Abbas
Abstract
A patellar tendon bearing orthosis (PTBO) is used to support and shift body weight away from the area below the knee. Evaluation of various composite materials, Patellar Tendon Bearing Orthosis was conducted. Important details on the mechanical properties of each group by tensile and fatigue testing. ...
Read More
A patellar tendon bearing orthosis (PTBO) is used to support and shift body weight away from the area below the knee. Evaluation of various composite materials, Patellar Tendon Bearing Orthosis was conducted. Important details on the mechanical properties of each group by tensile and fatigue testing. Drawing and analysis PTBO model using Ansys Workbench 17.2. For perlon, the modulus of elasticity (E), yield stress, and ultimate stress were found to be 10.580 MPa, 37.895 MPa, and 1.253 GPa, respectively. Carbon fiber had better mechanical properties, with a modulus of elasticity (E) of 1.958 GPa, a yield stress of 116.878 MPa, and an ultimate stress of 174.163 MPa. In conclusion, Glass fiber displayed an ultimate stress of 99.725 MPa, a yield stress of 90.672 MPa, and a modulus of elasticity (E) of 1.589 GPa. The fatigue resistance of carbon fiber was found to be superior to that of perlon, indicating the extended lifespan made of carbon fiber. The outcomes of the experimental interface pressure tests show that the highest recorded values are on the lateral side (320 kPa) and the posterior side (253 kPa). This shows that the pressure was dispersed uniformly throughout the tissue and away from the bony areas, enhancing walking comfort for the patient. Acceptable in the PTBO model design were the safety factors, total deformation, and (Von-Mises) stress distribution obtained from numerical analysis for the carbon fiber PTBO model, which were 1.49, 0.969 mm, and 86.009 MPa respectively.
Janan S Ali; Faris Ali Mustafa
Abstract
The task of creating active buildings largely depends on the integration of active design philosophies into the building’s circulation system— especially its stairs and elevators—and its program. Despite the implementation of active design guidelines for promoting stair use, there is ...
Read More
The task of creating active buildings largely depends on the integration of active design philosophies into the building’s circulation system— especially its stairs and elevators—and its program. Despite the implementation of active design guidelines for promoting stair use, there is a lack of objective measures to assess their effectiveness. This study provides an empirical analysis of active design strategies utilizing self-reported questionnaires and spatial analysis using DepthmapX software in seven office buildings in Erbil, Iraq (N=240 employees). The findings indicate a minimal inclination towards using stairs, with (M= 1.24), and a higher inclination toward using the elevator (M=1.46). Although participants reported high satisfaction with stair design (M > 3.5), the findings revealed no significant association between stair design and frequency of use (p > 0.05). This study found that the outcome is attributable to the spatial configuration, namely the absence of social and recreational facilities throughout various floors of the building. The result of the self-reported questionnaire is supported by objective spatial analysis, which indicates a positive significant correlation between spatial configuration in terms of connectivity, accessibility, visibility, and stair use. Based on the findings, it is advised that efforts to encourage stair use should go beyond just concentrating on the architecture of the staircase. Enhancing spatial configuration—by improving connectivity, accessibility, and visibility, as well as incorporating leisure areas and the strategic allocation of the building program across various levels—appears to be a beneficial strategy in promoting stair use and reducing Sedentary behavior SB.
Mohamed Qassim Kadhim; Hassan Falah Hassan
Abstract
The behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) members with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars has been the focus of several studies in previous years. However, a study to investigate the behavior of reactive powder concrete (RPC) columns reinforced with GFRP bars (GFRP-RPC) has not been conducted. ...
Read More
The behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) members with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars has been the focus of several studies in previous years. However, a study to investigate the behavior of reactive powder concrete (RPC) columns reinforced with GFRP bars (GFRP-RPC) has not been conducted. This study aimed to study the structural behavior of circular columns fully reinforced with GFRP bars and hoops or spirals. In the present study, the behavior of GFRP-RPC circular columns under axial load is studied with the effect of four variables: longitudinal reinforcement ratio, transverse reinforcement ratio, transverse reinforcement configuration (hoops vs. spirals), and type of longitudinal reinforcement (GFRP, steel, and hybrid). Twenty circular columns with a diameter of 150 mm and a height of 1000 mm were cast and tested, divided into seven groups. Results discuss failure modes, axial load capacity, deformations (displacement and strains), and ductility. Test results indicate that the load capacity of the columns increased by ranging from approximately 46 to 56.25% when the longitudinal reinforcement ratio increased from 1.77 to 3.55%, also increased the transverse reinforcement ratio from 1.24 to 2.48% enhanced the load capacity ranging from approximately 5.13 to 19.1%. Moreover, the nominal capacity of GFRP-RPC columns was compared with the design equations so, the results were verified.
Abrar Raheem Hamza; Alaa M. Al-Khekany; Gy¨orgy L. Bal´azs
Abstract
The research uses self-consolidating concrete (SCC) reinforced with steel bars, glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP), or hybrid reinforcement to improve the torsional capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Nine beams are cast in normal strength concrete (NSC), and eight are strengthened with ...
Read More
The research uses self-consolidating concrete (SCC) reinforced with steel bars, glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP), or hybrid reinforcement to improve the torsional capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Nine beams are cast in normal strength concrete (NSC), and eight are strengthened with steel, GFRP, and hybrid reinforcing bars for the pilot program. The examples are categorized by reinforcing layer thickness (Δh = 50mm and Δh = 75mm) and total depth (325 and 350mm) with a 25mm concrete cover. A control beam was examined for comparison, along with eight reinforced beams of various thicknesses. The tests focus on the impact of raising the Δh value, which increases effective depth, and the GFRP replacement ratio (0% to 100%). All beam specimens were torsional-loaded till failure. Increasing the thickness of RC beams reinforced with steel, GFRP, or hybrid bars (steel and GFRP) to ∆ = 50 mm significantly improved their ultimate torsional capacity. RC ranges rose from 33.33% to 66.67% over the control sample. The ultimate torsional capacity of the reinforced beams, at thickness ∆h = 75 mm, improved from 60% to 100% relative to the control sample.
Mohammed H. Sabry Al-Mashhadany; Najlaa M. A. Qaseem; Abdulazeez Y. Al-Saffawi
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate groundwater quality for a group of wells in the area located between Sinjar and Tal Afar districts, west of Nineveh Governorate, to know the most appropriate places to water livestock. Samples were collected from twenty wells distributed throughout the study area and were ...
Read More
This study aimed to evaluate groundwater quality for a group of wells in the area located between Sinjar and Tal Afar districts, west of Nineveh Governorate, to know the most appropriate places to water livestock. Samples were collected from twenty wells distributed throughout the study area and were measured for six months. A fuzzy logic model was developed to integrate eight parameters: pH, Ca, Mg, Na, Cl, PO4, SO4, and Fecal coliform (F.Coli). Membership functions for a fuzzy logic model of groundwater quality for livestock watering (GQLW) were constructed using linguistic expressions and trapezoidal shapes. The model was used on a data set of chemical analyses, and biological groundwater samples were taken from the study area. GQLW values ranged from fair to poor. This is due to the high concentrations of most studied parameters, which exceeded the permissible limits for livestock watering in groundwater in the southern part of the study area. The spatial distribution maps of the study area also matched the results of fuzzy Logic, which explains that the best groundwater quality is found in the northern regions. GQLW model evaluation makes this approach a more reliable way to evaluate water quality than traditional methods for assessing groundwater quality data; the correlation coefficient between the acquired data and the CCME quality index had to be estimated. The results of this new indicator showed a respectable correlation (0.76). The GQLW can be a useful tool for decision-making regarding groundwater management in the study area.
Mohammed Laissaoui; Sabrina Lecheheb; Amar Bouhallassa; Messaoud Hazmoune; Housseyn Karoua; Abdelatif Takilalte; Abdelkader Touil
Abstract
Water scarcity is a growing global problem affecting millions of people and ecosystems. It is the result of a number of factors, including population growth and climate change. Sustainable water management practices, efficient use of resources, and innovative technologies are essential to address this ...
Read More
Water scarcity is a growing global problem affecting millions of people and ecosystems. It is the result of a number of factors, including population growth and climate change. Sustainable water management practices, efficient use of resources, and innovative technologies are essential to address this challenge. By implementing these strategies, we can work towards ensuring a reliable water supply for future generations and mitigating the impact of water scarcity on communities and the environment. This study proposes and investigates a promising solar brackish water desalination system based on reverse osmosis technology powered by a solar organic Rankine cycle. This paper aims to perform a technical and economic study of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) powered by concentrating solar Fresnel field combined with desalination units in an isolated region of Algeria (region of Hassi Khebi), taking into account the power fluctuation of the solar plant, ensuring an acceptable quality of produced water. In particular, the prediction of the performances of the different components (the power plant and the desalination unit) is achieved through the modeling of the reverse osmosis unit and the simulation of concentrating solar power (CSP). The nominal capacity of the concentrating solar power plant is 1.2 MW based on linear solar Fresnel concentrators, the results have shown that the capacity of the desalination unit under nominal conditions reaches 15000 m3/day; this value represents a capacity factor of 24% according to the solar power availability, while the capacity factor of the solar power plant is around 20% with a solar electric efficiency of 15\%. The economic analysis shows that the levelized cost of the water produced is estimated at 0.92 ($/m3), as is the cost of the electricity generated, which is 0.25 $/kWh. Finally, there is the cost amortization period, which is 9.66 years. The established carbon balance shows the importance of this type of system compared to conventional systems.