Digital Commons Network^™

Experimental Investigation And Performance Optimization Of A Double Slope Solar Still Integrated With Nanoparticles In Phase Change Materials, Pronob Das, Md Shahriar Mohtasim, Utpol K. Paul, Md Sanowar Hossain, Barun K. Das, Anik Saha, Md Golam Kibria

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

By utilizing solar energy for desalination, solar stills offer a sustainable and cost-effective means of providing fresh drinking water in remote and arid regions. Existing studies have primarily focused on improving freshwater productivity while considering economic and environmental feasibility. The present work offers an in-depth assessment of solar still (SS) systems by analyzing energy and exergy performance, exergoeconomic factors (energy-economic factor, exergoeconomic factor, and cost of water), environmental impacts (CO2 emissions, exergo-environmental factor, and carbon credit gained), and sustainability indicators (energy payback time and sustainability index). Five different cases were examined: (I) a conventional solar still (CSS), (II) CSS with …

Super-Resolution Learning Inspired Spectral-Spatial Correlation Network For Hyperspectral Target Detection, Jiaping Zhong, Yunsong Li, Jianxin Li, Yanzi Shi, Weiying Xie, Paolo Gamba

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Hyperspectral target detection (HTD) aims at extracting targets from complex backgrounds while overcoming noise interference. Existing deep learning models for HTD usually suffer from low spatial resolution and unitary representation, especially in space-borne platforms. Super-resolution, as a critical technology to enhance the spatial details, could effectively address the aforementioned issue. To make super-resolution absolutely pose positive effects on target detection, this paper proposes an end-to-end novel super-resolution learning inspired spectral-spatial correlation network for hyperspectral target detection (SR-HTD) from the perspective of spatial and spectral regularization to achieve high-precision detection. Specifically, we designed a Spatial Correlation Aggregation (SCA) module inspired by …

Additive Manufacturing And Heat Treatment Of Zero Poisson’S Ratio Self-Expanding Nitinol Stents, Farhana Yasmin, Vafadar, Majid Tolouei-Rad

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Additive manufacturing (AM) has recently gained attention as an effective approach for printing patient-specific, self-expanding Nitinol (NiTi alloy) stents with complex structural designs for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). However, achieving the desired phase transformation temperature and superelastic performance remains challenging due to compositional variations, phase imbalance and microstructural inhomogeneities introduced during the printing process. In this study, self-expanding Nitinol stents with a zero Poisson’s ratio (ZPR) structural design were fabricated via laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB). The printed stents showed no evidence of cracks or structural defects, confirming PBF-LB’s capability to produce mechanically sound stent geometries. However, …

Renewable And Affordable Energy For Apartments. Inquiry Into Renewable And Affordable Energy For Apartments, Nishadi Ruwandima Weerasinghe Mudiyanselage, Asma Aziz

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Recent literature identifies a persistent disparity between detached housing and apartments in accessing renewable and affordable electricity. While rooftop solar PV deployment in Australia  has expanded rapidly since 2017, access to these technologies in multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) remains limited, resulting in higher electricity costs for apartment residents compared with standalone houses. This inequity is increasingly significant given rising electricity prices and the growing share of Australians living in apartments.

A Universal Hybrid Model-Free Deep Quantum–Transfer Learning Controller Enhanced By Grey Wolf Optimization For Dc–Dc Boost Converters With Hardware-In-Loop Validation, Seyyed Morteza Ghamari, Asma Aziz

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This paper proposes a universal hybrid model-free quantum–transfer learning controller with enhanced online grey wolf optimization algorithm (GWO–QTL) for DC–DC boost converter. This system has the characteristics of non-minimum phase behavior, parasitic effects, and fractional-order dynamics because of high frequency operation. These characteristics make analytical modeling complicated and make it difficult to have a single traditional controller that will operate reliably over different converter types. This motivates the creation of a unified model-free control framework that is able to learn directly from the behavior of the converter without relying on the topology specific models. Reinforcement learning, where an agent interacts …

Getting Started With Research In International Engineering Education, Kirsten A. Davis, Brent Jesiek

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

Feasibility Assessment Of Energy As A Service With Third Party Ownership For Development Of Utility-Scale Solar Pv In The Consumer Goods Industry, Winda Puspadimiati, Widodo W Purwanto

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

Global awareness of climate change impacts has compelled the power sector to adopt renewable energy as a primary source of electricity, driving innovation in renewable energy business models. This study analyzes the feasibility of Energy as a Service (EaaS) with a Third-Party Ownership (TPO) scheme for utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) development in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. Four scenarios of utility-scale solar PV configurations under the EaaS model are evaluated: on-grid ground-mounted (OG-GM), hybrid ground-mounted (H-GM), on-grid floating (OG-F), and hybrid floating (H-F). All scenarios are developed under the assumption of utilizing the PLN grid through a power wheeling …

Moving From Feasible Solutions To Sustainable Systems In The Built Environment, Mohammed Ali Berawi, Mustika Sari, Perdana Miraj

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

The built environment plays a crucial role in global sustainability efforts. Buildings, infrastructure, and cities consume large amounts of energy and materials that shape social behavior, and lock in environmental impacts. Over the past two decades, research has produced a wide range of technical solutions to reduce these impacts. Renewable energy systems, energy-efficient buildings, alternative construction materials, and new construction methods are no longer experimental concepts. Many have proven technical and economic potential. Yet, real-world transformation remains slow and uneven. This gap suggests that sustainability challenges in the built environment are no longer driven by a lack of technology. Instead, …

Barriers To The Adoption Of Modular Construction Technology In South Africa, Mokete Matoba, Christopher Amoah

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

Construction, mining, and manufacturing are the most significant contributors to South Africa's GDP. While manufacturing and other industries utilise advanced technologies to enhance productivity, he construction industry continues to lag behind in technological adoption. This study examines the barriers that hinder the South African construction industry from leveraging the benefits of modular construction technologies (MCT). The study employed a quantitative research method, using closed-ended questions to collect data. The questionnaires were emailed to South African construction industry professionals selected through a combination of purposive and convenience sampling. A total of 98 questionnaires were distributed, of which 46 were returned. However, …

Effects Of Calcination Conditions Of Locust Bean Pod On The Mechanical Properties Of Locust Bean Pod Ash High-Strength Concrete, Iorwuese Anum, Umar Abdullahi, Megat Azmi Megat Johari, Felix Nkapheeyan Isa

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

Locust Bean Pod Ash (LBPA) is produced from the calcination of Locust Bean Pod (LBP), an agricultural waste of the African locust bean tree (Parkia biglobosa). This study evaluated the use of LBPA obtained through controlled calcination and open burning as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in high-strength concrete (HSC). Cement was replaced by LBPA at 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight using both ashes—LC for ash produced through calcination at 600 °C, and LO for ash obtained through open burning. Slump and strength were assessed, including compressive strength (100 × 100 × 100 mm cubes) and splitting tensile …

Green Connectivity In Metropolitan Jabodetabek: Climate Change And The Challenge Of Urban Forest, Safira Maharani Putri, Hendricus Andy Simarmata

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

Urban areas in Indonesia, particularly the Greater Jakarta metropolitan region (Jabodetabek), are increasingly experiencing the adverse effects of climate change, such as the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon. Rapid urbanization has contributed significantly to rising greenhouse gas emissions and deteriorating environmental quality. Urban forests are one of the key solutions to mitigate these impacts; however, their spatial distribution in Jabodetabek remains suboptimal and poorly connected. This study uses NDVI as a proxy for urban forest density, where “urban forest” refers to vegetated areas within cities as defined by Presidential Regulation No. 60/2020. The research addresses the following question: How has …

Enhancing Health And Safety Practices In Construction Site In Developing Nations Through Technology Advancement In South Western Nigeria, Mubaraq Lawal, Abba Mahmud, Ismail Gbolahan Dere, Thankgod Agbo Owoicho

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

The construction sector plays a critical role in urban development and economic growth, yet it continues to face major challenges that threaten worker health and safety. Traditional safety measures are not always sufficient for the complex conditions found on construction sites, which creates a need for technology‑based solutions. This study investigates the relationship between technology adoption and health and safety practices in the construction industry in Lagos, Nigeria. The study identifies the major causes of site accidents, examines the level of technology use on construction sites, and reviews existing literature through both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected …

Exploring The Horizontal Static And Dynamic Shading Devices To Minimize Cooling Load In Tropical Buildings, Hilmi Fitriatulamal, Ova Candra Dewi, Miktha Farid Alkadri, Kartika Rahmasari

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

Shading devices are essential for reducing solar radiation and cooling loads in buildings located in tropical climates. In the Jakarta region, the highest solar factor is observed on west- and east-facing facades, followed by north- and south-facing orientations. National building policy in Indonesia encourages facades to face north–south to reduce solar heat gain. This study explores horizontal static and dynamic shading devices on north-facing facades and evaluates their impact on cooling load reduction and daylight performance. The methodology includes calculating and simulating energy use intensity (EUI) using EnergyPlus and conducting illuminance analysis using Radiance and Grasshopper. Key parameters considered in …

Decision Framework For Enhancing The Adoption Of Alternative Infrastructure Funding Models In Ghana, Samuel Kojo Aidoo, Patricia Lindelwa Makoni

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

This paper examines the socio-economic and infrastructure conditions that determine Ghana’s readiness to adopt alternative infrastructure funding models (AIFMs) for sustainable road development. The objective of the study is to identify the macroeconomic and sectoral drivers of AIFMs’ adoption and to develop policy frameworks for the sustainable financing of infrastructure within Ghana’s context. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis is applied to annual data from 2003 to 2023 to examine the relationship between macroeconomic and infrastructure indicators and economic growth , which is used as a proxy for the viability of AIFMs. The results show that employment growth, educational attainment, …

The Ethical Code Of Access And Use, Modeled By Archival Educator Aurora E. Davis, Jennifer A. Walker, Sarah A. Buchanan, Charissa F. Ercolin

Provenance, Journal of the Society of Georgia Archivists

Archival education has a legacy of collective development between professionals, educators, and students of archives. Longitudinal attention to archival pedagogy can greatly inform ongoing curricular directions, so that students always emerge from their archival program ready to manage complex collections in wide-ranging professional settings. One academic archival program’s first archival educator brought to her role relevant experience from both the aviation and newspaper industries that shaped her pedagogical impact on students. This paper considers the origins of archival education at the University of Missouri through the work of Aurora E. Davis, who served as a faculty member at the School …

International Engineering Education In Turbulent Times: Reflections, Strategies, And Visions In Honor Of John M. Grandin, Sigrid Berka, Mark W. Rectanus

Journal of International Engineering Education

At a time when private and public universities are facing the potential of significant cuts in federal funding for research and education, international engineering education programs need to navigate the turbulent landscape facing higher education at large and consider how they might reposition themselves within it. In this collection of essays dedicated to the memory, vision and legacy of the late Dr. John Grandin, we remind international educators that by mobilizing innovative thinking and an entrepreneurial spirit they can propel change in a seemingly deadlocked academic landscape. We have asked some of Dr. Grandin’s colleagues – who have led interdisciplinary, …

Impact Of The International Engineering Program (Iep) At The University Of Rhode Island (Uri): What’S In It For Languages And For Engineering?, Sigrid Berka

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

Garnering External Support For Languages In International Engineering Programs, Michael A. Nugent

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

Study Abroad And Languages: Leveraging Study Abroad For Engineering Education During Turbulent Times, Chad M. Gasta

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

Cooperative Education And Partnerships With Industry, Chris Cooper, Gayle G. Elliott

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

Collaborations And International Partnerships: Keys For International Education In Times Of Change, Bettina Cothran, Amy Bass Henry

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

International Engineering Education In Turbulent Times: Concluding Observations And Selected Publications By John M. Grandin, Sigrid Berka, Mark W. Rectanus

Journal of International Engineering Education

No abstract provided.

Computational Design Of Nanoporous Materials For The Adsorption Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, Daniel D. Mottern

Dissertations

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of chemicals that have seen wide usage due to their fluorinated carbon backbone. The presence of strong C-F bonds in the backbone lends PFAS molecules high thermal and chemical stability, as well as strong hydrophobicity and lipophobicity. This combination of properties has led to heavy use of PFAS as surfactants, non-stick coatings, and aqueous foam forming films and flame retardants. However, these properties bring their own consequences. The high chemical and thermal stability of PFAS renders them persistent, with the C-F bonds resisting naturally occurring forms of degradation. Existing forms of …

Entropic Forces Near Fluctuating Surfaces, Rubayet Hassan

Dissertations

Nanoscale structures are inherently dynamic due to persistent thermal fluctuations. Even in solid materials, these random deformations, driven by ambient thermal energy, can become significant when their characteristic scale approaches that of the structure itself and strongly influence their overall mechanical behavior. Examples of such structures include crystalline membranes, appearing in diverse forms such as nanotubes, nanoribbons, and kirigami/origami structures. Similarly, biological nanostructures, including lipid membranes, microtubules, actin filaments, and DNA, exhibit extreme flexibility and responsiveness due to their low bending rigidity. Numerous physiological processes are intrinsically linked to these thermal fluctuations, including exocytosis and endocytosis, membrane fusion, pore formation, …

Material Degradation And Analysis Of N-Doped Graphene/Mof Nanocatalysts For Orr In Electrochemical Energy Systems, Niladri Talukder

Dissertations

The development of advanced electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems is crucial for achieving sustainable energy security. As alternatives to precious metal-based catalysts in electrochemical systems, especially for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), Nitrogen-doped Graphene with Metal-organic Frameworks (N-G/MOF) nanocatalysts have shown exceptional promise in recent years. This research advances the understanding of N-G/MOF nanocatalysts by systematically examining their structural features, degradation traits, correlated performance losses, and other aspects related to catalytic activities.

First, nitrogen-doped graphene (N-G) nanocatalysts were thoroughly investigated, resolving their physical properties, the influence of synthesis parameters, molecular-level material structures, and chemical and electronic structural details of …

Data-Driven Analysis And Atomistic Simulations Of Next-Generation Materials For Energy Conversion And Storage, Yuliang Shi

Dissertations

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with their modular architectures and tunable properties, represent an especially rich domain for accelerated material design and discovery for a range of diverse applications. Within this class of multifunctional materials, two-dimensional (2D) electrically conductive MOFs (EC MOFs) are of particular interest, as their 7r-stacked layered structures combine permanent porosity with electronic conductivity, enabling potential breakthroughs in energy storage, energy conversion, and quantum sensing. But the discovery and design of new EC MOFs based on expensive experimental screening is increasingly impractical due to the infinite chemical space. Furthermore, the practical implementation of EC MOFs for specific tasks depends …

Effect Of Local Steel Slag Incorporation On The Mechanical Properties Of Concrete, Ahmed Safaa Tariq Karmah, Wissam Khadum Alsaraj, Luma A. Zghair

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

The increasing interest in the production of concrete through the utilization of inexpensive materials has caused a rise in the number of studies concerning the use of materials with cementitious properties, such as Silica Fume, Slag, Fly Ash and other pozzolanic materials. Moreover, the increasing amounts of Steel Slag being produced from local factories that are being deposited without an available method of disposal provides an opportunity to harness the Slag in the production of an inexpensive, and possibly better concrete. Slag has been used as both an addition and substitution of the cement and fine aggregate. The mixtures included …

Decoding Climate Change: A Comprehensive Statistical Insight Into Temperature Anomalies In Iraq And Its Neighboring Countries, Jameel T. Al-Naffakha, Mohammed R. Al-Qassabanda, Israa Jafar

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This study applies advanced statistical techniques, including the Mann-Kendall Trend Test and ARIMA forecasting, to validate and predict temperature anomalies across Iraq and its neighboring countries (2014–2024). Findings confirm a statistically significant warming trend (p < 0.00000005) across all nations, with Syria (1.02°C) and Turkey (0.97°C) experiencing the highest anomalies. GIS-based spatial analysis highlights regional disparities, identifying climate-vulnerable zones. The persistent rise in temperature anomalies correlates with worsening water scarcity, desertification, and extreme weather events, including prolonged droughts and heatwaves. Iraq’s peak anomaly (1.48°C) has exacerbated heat stress, agricultural decline, and reduced river inflows, while Kuwait and Saudi Arabia struggle to maintain critical infrastructure under record-breaking temperatures exceeding 50°C. These climate shifts pose severe risks to water availability, food security, and energy demand, necessitating urgent policy interventions. Key recommendations include enhanced water resource management, climate-adaptive agriculture, and renewable energy expansion. If left unaddressed, rising temperatures could destabilize the region, increasing socio-economic vulnerabilities and escalating resource conflicts. This study underscores the need for cross-border collaboration and sustainable adaptation policies to mitigate the long-term impacts of climate change in the Middle East.

Optimal Power Flow Control In The Iraqi Power Grid Using Artificial Intelligence Algorithms For Carbon Emission Reduction, Mohammed Shakir Juber

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

Iraq’s power sector remains in a protracted and severe crisis characterized by a significant mismatch between supply and demand, high levels of losses during transmission and distribution, as well as an increasing challenge to the resources base being largely unfavourably. These inefficiencies impose heavy costs on the national economy in excess of 40 billion annually and they also reinforce greenhouse gas emissions, and exacerbate environmental issues. To deal with these problems, we proposed in this paper that a new hybrid AI tool should be developed for the solution of multi-objective optimization problem based on purpose Genetic Algorithm (GA) merger with …

Applying Machine Learning Techniques For Early Detection Of Cyber Attacks On Iot Devices, Noor Adnan Allamy

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This research designs, implements, and evaluates a machine learning-based framework for the early detection of cyber attacks targeting Internet of Things (IoT) devices, with a specific focus on the context and challenges present in Iraq. The study conducts a comparative analysis of three supervised learning algorithms—Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Deep Neural Networks (DNN)—using a combination of benchmark datasets (NSL-KDD, CIC-IDS-2017, Bot-IoT) and a synthesized dataset adapted to simulate the Iraqi threat landscape. Key performance metrics, including accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, were used for evaluation. The proposed Random Forest model demonstrated superior performance, achieving an accuracy …