Engineering Commons^™

Measures And Effects Of Eco-Geological Restoration In Well No.4 In The Muli Mining Area, Qinghai Province, China, Zhao Xin, Wang Tong, Wang Weichao, Li Congcong, Li Fei, Jiang Zhikun, Li Jin

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective The Muli mining area, located in the hinterland of the Qilian Mountains, Qinghai Province, serves as the source of the Datong River—a major tributary of the Yellow River. This area falls within the alpine permafrost region, exhibiting a sensitive, fragile ecosystem. In the early 21st century, disordered coal mining in this area has caused ecological damage. This has notably posed four challenges in the ecological restoration of well No.4 in this area: (1) high, steep, and unstable slopes of spoil heaps; (2) a large volume of water accumulating in mining pits; (3) permafrost excavation and destruction, and (4) land …

Advances In Research On Lithium In Coal-Bearing Strata And Its Isotopes, Zhang Yun, Wei Yingchun, Cao Daiyong, Li Xin, Jin Liangliang, Dong Bo, Wang Xin

Coal Geology & Exploration

Significance Lithium serves as a significant strategic metal in emerging industries, and lithium isotopes have become crucial geochemical tracers due to their pronounced mass-dependent fractionation effects. Therefore, lithium minerals in coal-bearing strata have emerged as a priority in recent exploration of strategic metallic mineral resources. Investigating the isotopic composition and variation of lithium in coal-bearing strata helps reveal the sources, migration, and enrichment process of lithium while also providing a theoretical basis for lithium exploration and exploitation in coal-bearing strata. Advances This study offers a summary of advances in research on lithium in coal-bearing strata and its isotopes from three …

Multi-Field Information Fusion-Based Analysis Of The Macroscopic And Mesoscopic Damage Evolution And Location Identification Of Caving And Water-Conducting Fracture Zones For Mining Overburden, Wei Jiangbo, Wang Shuangming, Liu Lang, Wei Baoning, Chong Deyu, Liu Zhizhen, Li Dongkui, Zhuang Dengdeng, Zhou Jing

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective For the coal mining areas in the middle reaches of the Yellow River, there is an urgent need to determine the failure characteristics of the mining overburden and the spatial structural evolution of caving and water-conducting fracture zones in the overburden, which is recognized as the major challenge in coal mining through gangue grouting filling in goaves. Methods To accurately identify the locations of the caving and water-conducting fracture zones in the mining overburden, this study investigated mining face 42205 in the Liangshuijing Coal Mine in northern Shaanxi Province. Using drilling data, this study constructed a numerical model of …

Intelligent Identification Of The Acoustic Emission Characteristics And Crack Propagation States During Of Coal Failure Based On The Nrbo-Xgboost Model, Zhang Tianjun, Cao Xinshuang, Song Shuang, He Suinan, Xue Yilun, Liu Guoying, Chen Juntao

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective The dynamic hazards of coals are intimately associated with the complexity and uncertainty of coal failure, while accurately identifying the propagation states of coal cracks serves as a critical approach to investigating the instability failure of coals. However, the current identification methods based on the physical quantities of acoustic emission suffer from slow speeds and low efficiency, failing to meet the demand for safe, efficient, and intelligent mining of coal mines. Methods To achieve the intelligent identification of the crack propagation states of coals, this study constructed an optimization model based on the Newton-Raphson-based optimizer (NRBO) and the eXtreme …

Effects Of Coal Seam Dip Angle On Asymmetric Load Transfer Paths In The Overburden Of Inclined Stopes, Zhu Kaipeng, Luo Shenghu, Xie Panshi, Li Zhilin, Fan Juan, Tian Chengyang, Yi Leilei, Xu Hui

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objectives The coal seam dip angle is recognized as the root cause of far more complex load transfer paths in the overburden of inclined stopes compared to those of common coal seams. A clear understanding of the effects of the coal seam dip angle on the load transfer paths holds great significance for the stability control of surrounding rocks in inclined coal seams. Methods Based on the engineering background of a certain coal mine in Xinjiang, this study investigated the asymmetric deformations and failure of the overburden in inclined stopes using physical similar material simulation experiments, finite element numerical simulations, …

Operation Strategy Simulation Of The Heating System For Moderately Deep Geothermal Resources, Zhao Yongzhe, Zhao Baofeng, Hu Zhenyang, Gou Li, Du Dingshan, Liu Chenglu

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background The active utilization of moderately deep geothermal resources for heating serves as a critical measure to achieve the goals of peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality. Meanwhile, the effectiveness of the operation strategies of the heating system using these resources directly influences heating performance and significantly affects the energy consumption of the heating system. It is necessary to prevent resource waste while utilizing geothermal energy. Methods Based on a heating project using moderately deep geothermal resources in the Guanzhong Basin, Shaanxi Province, this study established a dynamic simulation model using the TRNSYS transient simulation software. Then, this study …

Fracture Activation In The Overburden And Aquiclude Stability Under The Mining Of Close-Distance Coal Seams, Cao Jian, Su Haitao, Wang Chao, Li Jianwei, Li Liang, Mao Xuwei

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background In the Jurassic coalfield of northern Shaanxi Province, the repeated mining of close-distance coal seams exacerbates the activation of fractures in the overburden. This is prone to cause aquiclude instability, leading to groundwater loss. Methods This study aims to reveal the characteristics of fractures in the overburden and the aquiclude stability in the mining of close-distance coal seams. Using a method combining measurement statistics, physical simulations using similar materials, and theoretical analysis, this study proposed categorizing primary coal-rock combinations based on the water-preserved mining of close-distance coal seams in the Jurassic coalfield of northern Shaanxi. Additionally, this study analyzed …

Inversion Of Electric Field Component EX In The Sotem Method Based On The Improved Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm, Zhang Jifeng, Chen Changjian, Li Yuteng, You Xiran, Ma Ziben

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective The inversion of the horizontal electric field component in the grounded-source short offset transient electromagnetic (SOTEM) method using traditional algorithms is prone to fall into local extrema. To address this challenge, this study proposed an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm that integrates the center of gravity reverse learning strategy. Methods Based on the center of gravity reverse learning strategy, the improved PSO algorithm can dynamically adjust learning factors and the value of the adaptive inertia weight, thus improving the global search capability and convergence efficiency effectively. The performance of the improved PSO algorithm was verified using the typical …

Characteristics Of Dynamic Mode Ⅱ Fracture Of Frozen Saturated Sandstones Under Varying Low Temperatures And Loading Rates, Zhao Tao, Cui Zhao, Jia Hailiang, Yang Guangyu

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background Investigating the mode Ⅱ fracture of frozen saturated sandstones under dynamic disturbances, including changes in their critical stress intensity factor (SIF; i.e., fracture toughness) and energy dissipation mechanisms, is crucial for the safe excavation of frozen wellbores through drilling and blasting in coal mines. Methods Using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB), this study conducted experiments on the dynamic mode Ⅱ fracture of a sandstone specimen using the short core in compression (SCC) method (also referred to as dynamic SCC experiments) under varying temperatures and loading rates. Accordingly, this study analyzed the SIF versus time curves of the frozen …

An Experimental Study On The Yield Strength Of Cement Grout For Grouting In The Limestone Area Of A Coal Seam Floor, Zou Jun, Guo Yan, Gui Herong, Wang Weimin, Chen Zhenlin, Liu Faming, Dai Yanan, Hu Yang, Chen Zengbao, Li Jun, Gao Chuan, Li Heng

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective and Methods In recent years, regional grouting through ground directional drilling has become the preferred technique for water disaster prevention and control in floor limestones in a coal mining area. In grouting engineering, the diffusion radius of cement grout, which has always received wide attention, is constrained by multiple factors including the shear yield strength (yield strength for short) and specific gravity of cement grout, along with grouting pressure. The diffusion radius in turn influences the implementation effects of on-site grouting engineering. Among its controlling factors, the yield strength of cement grout cannot be tested on site. Given this, …

Critical Technical Parameters Of Large-Diameter Multi-Stage Casing Drilling For Mine Rescue, Xu Chao, Yao Ningping, Jiang Lei, Tian Hongjie, Liu Zhi, Zhu Ning

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective This study aims to meet the needs of mine rescue in cave-in accidents occurring in narrow underground spaces and to address the contradiction between equipment miniaturization and the drilling of large-diameter rescue boreholes under complex collapse conditions. Based on the goal of constructing a 60-m-long rescue passageway, this study developed a dual-power, composite drilling process based on multi-stage casing drilling technology for large-diameter horizontal rescue boreholes under complex collapse conditions. Furthermore, this study investigated the critical drilling parameters, aiming to provide a basis for the function development and parameter formulation of rescue equipment. Methods This study designed supporting three-stage …

Application Of Five Seismic Attributes In Natural Fracture Prediction For Deep Coalbed Methane Production Along The Eastern Margin Of The Ordos Basin, Tong Jiangnan, Wang Feng, Zhang Feng, Hou Wei, Li Zhongbai, Ji Liang, Jiang Yanan, Sun Wei

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background Natural fractures serve as both the primary storage space for free gas of deep coalbed methane (CBM) and pathways for hydrocarbon migration. Furthermore, these fractures can enhance the porosity and permeability of strata under the deep, high-pressure condition, significantly amplifying the permeability of coal seams. Therefore, the fine-scale characterization of the planar distribution of natural fractures is crucial to deep CBM production.Objectives and Methods This study investigated the No.8 coal seam in the Carboniferous Benxi Formation within the Daning-Jixian block on the eastern margin of the Ordos Basin. Through offset vector tiles (OVT) domain processing of offshore 3D …

How Can The Adoption Of Biodegradable Packaging In The Beverage Industry Specifically Contribute To Reducing Single-Use Plastic Waste, And What Regulatory Or Cost-Related Challenges Hinder Its Widespread Implementation In Developing Countries?, Rebecca Aba Gaisie

2025 Awards for Excellence in Student Research and Creative Activity - Documents

This research investigates the potential of biodegradable packaging to reduce single-use plastic waste in the beverage industry and explores the regulatory and cost-related barriers to its adoption in developing countries. The beverage sector is a major contributor to global plastic pollution, and biodegradable alternatives offer a promising path toward sustainability. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines qualitative interviews with industry experts and case studies of businesses implementing biodegradable solutions, alongside quantitative survey data from 100 manufacturers and 200 consumers across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Findings reveal that while biodegradable packaging significantly reduces plastic waste and appeals to environmentally …

Integrating Standards For Infrastructure Improvement And Resilience In University Curricula, Lisa Greenwood, Jennifer Schneider, Sumita Mishra, Yewande S. Abraham, Shriram Karpoora Sundara Pandian

Articles

In today’s ever-changing world, we are increasingly vulnerable to shocks and stresses that disrupt industry and society. Persistent threats from natural and manmade hazards require our communities and infrastructure to be resilient despite possible disruption. Creating robust infrastructures is founded on operational and physical standards to withstand and respond to threats such as environmental exposures, climate change, and informational security breaches. The significant U.S. investment in infrastructure projects through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has amplified the need for professionals in engineering and related fields who – in addition to technical knowledge - possess the necessary knowledge and skill …

Turning Farm Waste Into Energy: Pragmatic Approaches For Cleaner Midwestern American Communities, Rebecca Gaisie

Selected or Submitted Student Research Papers/Projects

Mismanagement of farm waste in the Midwest of the United States has resulted in significant methane emissions, water contamination, and public health concerns. The present manure management rules are still inconsistent, underfunded, and insufficient to motivate individuals to behave in a way that benefits the environment, despite increasing concerns about the environment. This policy study investigates anaerobic digestion as a potential means to convert waste into energy that could support rural and environmental development. Some of the problems with the federal and state legislation examined in this study under an EPI framework are a lack of incentives, inadequate technical support, …

Changes In The Western Flank Of The North Atlantic Subtropical High Since 1140 Ce: Extremes, Drivers, And Hydroclimatic Patterns, Joshua C. Bregy, Justin T. Maxwell, Scott M. Robeson, Grant L. Harley, Valerie Trouet

Publications

Summer circulation and moisture patterns in the Southeast United States are controlled by the position of the North Atlantic subtropical high. In a warming climate, the subtropical high is projected to strengthen and expand west, but there remains uncertainty regarding its variability and linkages to natural drivers. Here, we use a tree-ring network across the Southeast United States to reconstruct the relative intensity of the pressure gradient across the subtropical high’s western flank over the past 870 years. Variations in the flank’s position and the pressure gradient have been a major driver of the hydroclimate—including creating a Southeast-Caribbean moisture dipole—since …

Valorization Of Industrial Wastes To Low-Carbon Minerals, Nandan Nag

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

This study concentrates on developing methods for utilizing industrial waste materials such as red mud and phosphate slag. In this study, an electrochemical process was developed for recovering iron metal powder from red mud. Red mud is a waste material from aluminum refineries. Although red mud can be utilized as a construction and building material, its use is becoming controversial due to its high metal content, which contributes to its toxicity. However, the high iron oxide content in red mud makes it a good feedstock for producing iron. In this project, we employed an electrochemical technique for extracting iron powder …

Towards Sustainable Energy: Design And Preliminary Testing Of Tidal Current Turbines, Yareli A. Zelaya Pavon

Presentations - 2025

As the energy demand constantly increases and traditional energy resources decrease, incorporating sustainable alternatives has become necessary. In this context, this research attempts to provide a new solution for energy scarcity in regions that lack electricity, especially those located near large ocean areas. The objective of this project was to engineer and investigate an ideal prototype to transform power generation. Through detailed design and testing, this project seeks to reveal the potential of tidal energy, offering an alternative to communities struggling with energy distribution.

The research focuses on utilizing custom-designed propellers, which are 3D printed and installed on an open …

Low Dissolved Oxygen Operation Enhances Biological Phosphorus Removal In Wastewater Treatment, Haley Morgan

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Biological phosphorus (bio-P) removal occurs when bacteria are exposed to anaerobic/aerobic conditions that stimulate polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) to uptake phosphorus. In most treatment plants, dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in the aeration tanks are commonly at or above 2.0 mg O₂/L, which is often referred to as the most optimal aeration condition for bio-P. If bio-P can happen efficiently at lower DO (< 0.3 mg O₂/L), then the energy demand of aeration can be decreased appreciably. This research was conducted in a biological nutrient removal (BNR) pilot plant to assess the performance of bio-P at progressively lower DO operation. This …

Assessing Groundwater Availability And Land Subsidence Risk Associated With Anthropogenic Activities In A Complex Aquifer System, Aya Bakr Attya Mohamed

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

The Southern Hills aquifer system (SHAS) is the primary source of water in the Capital area of Louisiana. However, the overexploitation of freshwater-bearing aquifers and the presence of two active faults, the BR fault and the DSS fault, have resulted in groundwater depletion, saltwater intrusion, and increased the risk of land surface subsidence. Such critical issues pose substantial threats to groundwater availability and exert detrimental effects on the environment and urban infrastructures. This dissertation presents a comprehensive investigation of the SHAS for recognizing the consequences of groundwater depletion and its potential long-term impacts on groundwater availability and land stability. A …

Bear Lake Water Quality And Chemistry: 114 Years Of Water Management, Connely Baldwin

Spring Runoff Conference

Motivation: Fall 2024 Bear Lake Sediment-Nutrient Reduction Workshop (Bear Lake Watch) motivated deeper dive into water quality and chemistry status and trends

Development Of A Low-Cost Stem Dendrometer For Irrigation Scheduling In Fruit Trees, Anderson Luiz Dos Santos Safre, Alfonso Torres-Rua, Brent Black

Spring Runoff Conference

Motivation 

• Irrigation scheduling in water scarce regions. 
• Water stress evaluation in tart cherry orchards.
• Plant-based methods more suitable for tree crops. 
• Elevated cost of commercial dendrometers (> 1,000 USD). 

Parrotfeather (Myriophyllum Aquaticum): Biology And Management Options In Utah, Francielli S. De Oliveira

Spring Runoff Conference

Parrotfeather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)

• Invasive weed from South America.
• Heterophilic perennial dioecious plant (female in the US).
• Forms dense mats, blocks waterways, and outcompetes native species
• Spreads via rhizomes, stolons, and stem fragments.

Comparing Two Methods To Monitor Singlet Oxygen Production In Aquatic Systems: Chemical Probe Vs. Time Resolved Phosphorescence., Monika Madhiyan

Spring Runoff Conference

What’s in water?

• DOM is a naturally occurring complex mixture of organic matter
• Pollutants from domestic, industrial and agricultural effluent are introduced into surface waters

Innovative Genetic Methods For Predicting Microcystin Toxin Production In Cyanobacterial Blooms: Real-Time And Pre-Bloom Public Health Monitoring, Liyuan Hou

Spring Runoff Conference

EQL emphasizes an integrated engineering and science approach to the environmental quality of land, water, and air

Chopping Up The Riverscape: Consistent Sample Frames For Assessment And Monitoring, Jordan Gilbert

Spring Runoff Conference

Background

• Riverscapes Assessment and Monitoring Lab (RAM)
• Joe Wheaton, Wally Macfarlane, Jordan Gilbert
• Founding member of Riverscapes Consortium
• Provide tools for people working in riverscapes
• Primarily planning, implementing, and monitoring restoration projects

Growing Roots: Water Conservation, Innovative Research And Public Education, Aurora Wallis Durfee

Spring Runoff Conference

Hydroponics allows for efficient, sustainable food production, using less water and space than traditional farming methods.

Water Markets In Utah? Water Manager Perspectives On Potential Uptake, Britta L. Schumacher

Spring Runoff Conference

Irrigation organizations: intermediaries that deliver water to farms, ranches, and other users, coordinate investments in conveyance infrastructure, and manage limited water supplies.

Advancing 3d Channel Representation To Support National Scale Flood Forecasting Operations, Jose Castejon Villalobos, Anzy Lee, Noelle Patterson, Belize Lane, Colin Phillips

Spring Runoff Conference

Storms and Flooding are major annual disasters.

Paired Storms Reveal Post-Fire Flood Characteristics And Drivers, Haley Canham, Belize Lane

Spring Runoff Conference

The wildfire regime is changing in the western US.