Civil Engineering Commons^™

A Machine Learning Approach To Estimating Agricultural Return Flows: A Case Study Of The Twin Falls Canal Company In Idaho, Kendra Alise Figgins

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

Idaho is the third largest water user in the United States due to its extensive agriculture industry (Murray, 2018). Irrigation has allowed farmers to take advantage of the warm climate and rich soils of the Eastern Snake River Plain to develop one of the nation’s most productive agricultural regions. This area now contains one-third of Idaho’s irrigated acres (Idaho Department of Water Resources, 2024). It also contains critical hydrologic connections between the Snake River and the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer.

Farming practices in Idaho have gradually shifted over time. Warming temperatures and increased irrigation efficiency are allowing an expansion of …

Sustainability Assessment Of Ground Improvement Techniques: A Life Cycle Analysis Of Lime, Cement, Geopolymers And Biopolymers For Roadway Application, Jillian R. Frost

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

Ground improvement design (GID) is a vital part of constructing safe, long-lasting infrastructure. Traditionally, this is done with a chemical additive such as lime or cement that is mixed with in-situ soil to improve soil parameters such as compressibility, and strength. These stabilizers produce high amounts of carbon emissions. As a response, engineers and researchers are beginning to develop new stabilization methods using biopolymers and geopolymers in hopes of achieving comparable soil stability results as well as reduced environmental impacts.

This thesis work integrates a life-cycle analysis (LCA) and life-cycle-cost-analysis (LCCA) framework to evaluate and compare four soil stabilizer types: …

The Effect Of Loading Conditions And Specimen Size On The Tensile Strength Of Ring-Shaped Specimens, Kolby Scott Mcclure

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

This study introduces a custom-built direct tension testing apparatus designed for ring-shaped rock specimens. The apparatus applies a uniform axial load to the inner surface of the ring and is compatible with standard geotechnical testing equipment. Using this device, 176 granite specimens sourced from Horseshoe Bend, Idaho, were tested under three configurations: Brazilian, indirect ring tension, and direct ring tension. Only specimens exhibiting valid diametrical splitting failure modes (126 out of 176) were included in the final analysis. Direct tension tests yielded the lowest tensile strengths, followed by Brazilian tests, with indirect tension tests producing the highest values. While scatter …

Feasibility Of Small-Modular Reactors In Hybrid Energy Systems, Taylor Reid

Boise State University Theses and Dissertations

This thesis evaluates the feasibility of integrating next-generation nuclear technology into hybrid energy systems, framing the analysis within the guidelines suggested by the World Energy Council’s, Energy Trilemma. The trilemma seeks to balance energy security, economics/equity and sustainability. To this end, a computer model was created to illustrate how the limitations of intermittent renewables, like wind and solar (PV), can be addressed when they are combined with a baseload provided by a next-generation nuclear Small Modular Reactor (SMR). The baseload power provided by nuclear energy can smooth the variability of wind or solar power, while simultaneously offsetting the cost of …

Upcycling Carbide Slag Waste For Low-Temperature Co2 Sequestration: Direct Application And Adsorption After Chemical Alteration, Manisha Sukhraj Kothari

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Excessive carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and large-scale industrial waste generation are the results of rapid industrialization and ever-increasing energy demand. The recent trend of repurposing waste materials for pollution prevention is a promising approach to address both these environmental challenges. One such industrial waste residue generated from acetylene gas production is called carbide slag (CS). Its high Ca(OH)₂ content presents a promising opportunity for its utilization in CO₂ sequestration. However, CS waste is primarily studied as a CaO source for the intensive Ca-looping process. Despite the great potential, the high temperature requirements of the Ca-looping process limit its industrial application. …

Fusion Of Simulation And Ai Methods For Understanding Hov/Hot Lane Operational Flow Dynamics, Deo Chimba, Therezia Matongo, Hellen Shita, Erickson Senkondo, Masanja Madalo, Afia Yeboah

Civil and Architectural Engineering Faculty Research

This study investigated the impact of converting High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes to High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes on fundamental traffic flow characteristics, focusing on speed, density, and flow relationships. A 25-mile HOV corridor along I-24 Westbound in Nashville, Tennessee was evaluated using both microscopic simulation via VISSIM and data-driven machine learning through a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) neural network. Four operational scenarios were assessed: (1) HOV lanes without enforcement, (2) HOV lanes with effective occupancy enforcement, (3) HOT lanes with limited access points, and (4) HOT lanes with intermediate access points. Flow-density and speed-flow relationships were modeled using Greenshields theory …

Synthesis Of Sustainable Self-Foaming Glass Ceramics Using Waste Glass And Aluminium Dross, Abba Musa Hassan

Student Works (2020-2029)

The growing global demand for sustainable materials has driven extensive research into lightweight insulating materials, such as self-foaming glass ceramics (SFGCs), which align closely with the principles of a circular economy. While the alkali activation of aluminosilicates offers an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional, energy-intensive industrial methods for producing glass-based foams, current approaches often depend on synthetic foaming agents, high-speed agitation, and elevated sintering temperatures. These factors adversely affect slurry rheology, resulting in suboptimal microstructures, reduced mechanical strength, increased production costs, and negative environmental impacts. This study contributes to the advancement of the field by developing eco-friendly SFGCs using soda-lime …

Potential Use Of Waste-Derived Products In Producing Geopolymer Sorbents, Mariam Mohammed Al Nuaimi

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Environmental sustainability and the circular economy are central to addressing global challenges in waste management and water pollution. This study investigates the synthesis and performance of geopolymers derived from industrial wastes, including fly ash, waste glass, silt deposits, and carbide lime, as adsorbents for methylene blue (MB) dye removal from water. Geopolymers were engineered under varying particle sizes, NaOH addition methods, and curing temperatures. Their physicochemical and microstructural properties were thoroughly characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), andparticle size analysis (PSA). Among the tested formulations, the sodium silicate–sodium hydroxide …

Assessment Of Traffic Related Air Pollution Effects On Indoor Air Quality In Educational Buildings, Ahmed Gouda Mohamed, Mohamed Sherif Dr., Fahad Alqahtani Dr., Yousif Deeb Eng.

Civil Engineering

This study assesses the impact of traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) on indoor air quality (IAQ) within a Riyadh school. The main objectives are to pinpoint factors influencing IAQ and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing ventilation and filtration systems. Air quality Egg sensors monitored nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM1.0, PM2.5, PM10) levels both indoors and outdoors over 30 days. Findings revealed average indoor PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations of 14.09 µg/m3 and 18.15 µg/m3, respectively, while outdoor concentrations averaged 20.63 µg/m3 and 27.88 µg/m3. A strong positive correlation was observed between indoor and outdoor PM levels, …

Downdrag Defeated – The Neutral Plane Method, Kyle L. Zak, Min Sang Lee

Civil Engineering Professional Development Seminar

The neutral plane method for evaluating downdrag on deep foundations has been gaining popularity over the past few years. It is a powerful tool that, in many situations, can all but eliminate downdrag concerns on deep foundations. INDOT has allowed its use recently and adapted its forms to accommodate this method. The presentation will cover the theory behind the method and how it can be applied in bridge design. We will then demonstrate how to incorporate the method into the INDOT workflow, and we’ll show a couple real-life examples where the neutral plane method saved the day.

Curbless By Design: Revitalizing Downtown Infrastructure For Pedestrians, Alex Duran, Steve Cherry

Civil Engineering Professional Development Seminar

This presentation will discuss the design of a curbless, pedestrian-focused corridor as part of a small-town downtown reconstruction in Sylvania, Ohio. The project team will share how they balanced community goals, accessibility, and utility coordination, along with considerations for drainage, hardscape, lighting, and power. The session will also highlight early construction lessons learned from Phase 1.

Mass Timber Construction: Products, Performance And Design, Anthony Harvey

Civil Engineering Professional Development Seminar

Due to their high strength, dimensional stability and positive environmental performance, mass timber building products are quickly becoming materials of choice for sustainably‐minded designers. This presentation will provide a detailed look at the variety of mass timber products available, including glue‐laminated timber (glulam), cross laminated timber (CLT), nail laminated timber (NLT), heavy timber decking, and other engineered and composite systems. Applications for the use of these products under modern building codes will be discussed, and examples of their use in U.S. projects reviewed. Mass timber’s ability to act as both structure and exposed finish will also be highlighted, as will …

Cytotoxicity And Genotoxicity Of Glyphosate And Roundup Quickpro On Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells, Tasnimul Ferdous, Qingfang He, Wen Zhang

Civil Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Glyphosate and Roundup products have become the most used herbicide worldwide. However, previous bans in Europe and recent reversal have caused confusion over their safety. This study aims to investigate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of Roundup QuickPro and its main ingredient glyphosate using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Cytotoxicity was calculated by measuring CHO cell viability with 72 h of exposure to each toxicant. Roundup QuickPro exhibited higher cytotoxicity with LC50 of 511.2 mu g/mL than glyphosate's LC50 of 3389 mu g/mL. The recommended application concentration (11,233.7 mu g/mL) of Roundup QuickPro is much higher than the measured LC50, …

Carbon-Neutral Concrete: A Review On Carbon Capture, Storage, And Utilization Technologies, Syed Muhammad O Naqvi, Muhammad Daniyal Raza, Syed Muhammad Bilal Haider

Civil Engineering Faculty Publications

Concrete industry is responsible for approximately 7% of total CO2 emissions around the globe making it a critical target for decarbonization. This review study evaluates carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies applicability in concrete industry with a focus on direct air capture (DAC), CO2 curing, mineral carbonation, and incorporation of carbonated recycled aggregates and alternative binders. Emphasis is placed on the mechanisms of various CCUS technologies, economic feasibility, environmental benefits, mechanical performance, and current challenges in their application and scalability aiming to optimize the structural efficiency, carbon uptake, and cost of concrete structures. Case studies from industrial implementations, such …

Numerical Modeling Of Circular Reinforced Concrete Columns Confined With Frcm Composites, Ahmed Khaled Elzaher

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) composites are considered a promising alternative for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) columns due to the noncorrosive nature of the fiber strands and the enhanced thermal resistance of the cementitious mortar. The interaction between the confinement provided by the internal steel ties and the external FRCM composites represents a key parameter that has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The complexity of this combined FRCM–steel confinement mechanism increases under eccentric compression loading, which is commonly encountered in practical applications. This study aimed to investigate the structural behavior of short circular RC columns confined with FRCM composites under concentric …

Development Of New Design Criteria For Coastal Highway Embankment Under Wave-Induced Loading, Udaya Bilas Panta

Master's Theses

In the face of intensifying hurricanes and rising sea levels, Louisiana’s coastal highways, lifelines for communities and commerce, stand increasingly vulnerable. This thesis introduces a pioneering methodology for designing geosynthetic-reinforced highway embankments capable of withstanding wave-induced loading and rapid drawdown scenarios, the most critical failure condition identified in coastal environments. By integrating statistical wave modeling, advanced numerical simulations using SEEP/W and SLOPE/W, and a comprehensive parametric analysis, the study develops a novel hybrid regression formula that accurately predicts optimal reinforcement lengths based on site-specific geotechnical and hydraulic parameters. Validated against Hurricane Katrina data and real-world soil profiles from Cameron Parish, …

Locations Of Outfalls In The Indian River Lagoon And Lake Worth Lagoon, Florida, Kelly M. Kibler, Melinda J. Donnelly, Vincent Encomio, Madison Giuntoli, Manisha Thenuwara, Brice Bennett, Laura Andrade Barron, Mariam Sonbol, Wynter Raine Seppala, Namritha Ramakrishnan, Jennifer Jordan Báez, Beth Orlando, Irene Arpayoglou, Melissa Meisenburg

Indian River Lagoon Shorelines

The spatial dataset: UCF_Outfalls_IRL_LWL.shp was created under grants from the Indian River Lagoon National Estuaries Program and Florida Sea Grant. These projects cumulatively led to creation of a living shoreline restoration prioritization model and hydrodynamic habitat suitability models for 1,550 km (963 miles) of estuarine shorelines in Indian River Lagoon (IRL) and Lake Worth Lagoon (LWL).

The dataset presented here includes the location of outfalls identified throughout the study region and general characteristics of the shoreline where they were identified.

Seagrass Persistence In The Indian River Lagoon And Lake Worth Lagoon, Florida, Kelly Kibler, Melinda Donnelly, Vincent Encomio, Madison Giuntoli, Manisha Thenuwara, Brice Bennett, Laura Andrade Barron, Mariam Sonbol, Wynter Raine Seppala, Namritha Ramakrishnan, Jennifer Jordan Báez, Beth Orlando, Irene Arpayoglou, Melissa Meisenburg

Indian River Lagoon Shorelines

The spatial dataset: UCF_seagrasspersistence_IRL_LWL.shp was created with support from the Indian River Lagoon National Estuaries Program and Florida Sea Grant. These projects cumulatively led to creation of a living shoreline restoration prioritization model and hydrodynamic habitat suitability models for 1,550 km (963 miles) of estuarine shorelines in Indian River Lagoon (IRL) and Lake Worth Lagoon (LWL). The dataset presented herein represents persistence of seagrass throughout waters of the IRL and LWL.

From The Editors, Rully Karim Dr.

Journal of Project Management & Construction

The Journal of Project Management and Construction (JPMC) is a peer-reviewed publication dedicated to advancing the field of project management and construction, grounded in the principles outlined in the PMBOK 6th Edition. Our focus encompasses the ten knowledge areas essential to successful project management: Integration, Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resource, Communications, Risk, Procurement, and Stakeholder Management.

JPMC publishes original research papers written in English that provide deeper insights into these knowledge areas and contribute to the development of best practices in project management and construction. Submissions may include theoretical analyses, computational models, experimental observations, or a combination of both theoretical …

Critical Success Factors Of Lean Construction Implementation To Improve Construction Project Efficiency In Indonesia, Onal Putra, Rossy Armyn Machfudiyanto

Journal of Project Management & Construction

Inefficiency is still a problem in the construction industry in Indonesia and in the world. Inefficiency leads to delayed deadlines, budget overruns, and inappropriate quality. It is caused by a lot of waste in the form of activities that use resources but do not produce the expected value. Lean construction is one approach to address this problem by eliminating waste and maximizing value for users or customers. This research aims to identify and determine the critical success factors that most influence the implementation of lean construction to improve the efficiency of construction projects in Indonesia as well as the development …