Chemical Engineering Commons^™

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 …

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 …

Ai-Enhanced Heat Transfer Optimization In Magnetic Bio-Nanofluids, Hasan Attyah Shaboot

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This study presents a hybrid Artificial Intelligence–Computational Fluid Dynamics (AI-CFD) framework for optimizing heat transfer in magnetic bio-nanofluids subjected to external magnetic fields. Magnetic bio-nanofluids, composed of biocompatible base fluids containing superparamagnetic nanoparticles, exhibit tunable thermal and flow behavior, making them promising for biomedical and micro-cooling applications. Conventional optimization methods based on experiments or brute-force CFD are computationally expensive and limited in exploring the full design space. To overcome these challenges, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) surrogate model was developed to predict two key performance indicators, the Nusselt number and the friction factor, with high accuracy (R² > 0.997). The surrogate …

Hybrid Experimental–Computational Study On The Energy Absorption Of Graphene Nanoplatelet-Reinforced Sandwich Structures, Hamdan Yousif Hamdan

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

Background: Sandwich composites are widely used in aerospace, automotive, and marine applications because of their lightweight, stiffness, and strength, but they remain prone to out-of-plane impacts and barely visible impact damage (BVID). Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs) have shown strong potential to improve fracture toughness and impact resistance. However, hybrid experimental–computational studies applying such reinforcement are still lacking in developing contexts like Iraq, where practical and accessible solutions are essential. Aims: The study investigates the effect of GNP reinforcement on the low-velocity impact behavior and energy absorption of glass fiber/epoxy sandwich panels with PVC foam and balsa wood cores. Objectives include fabricating …

Effect Of Thick Closed Walls Of West And South Elevations Of Iraqi Middle And South Territory Housing Building On Reducing Energy Use, Abeer Qasim Jbur, Shaimaa M. Hamza, Mayyadah Lutfi Abdulwahhab

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

Thermal insulation is one of the most important factors in achieving sustainability, increasing efficiency, and reducing energy consumption, but modern insulation materials are expensive, in addition to their availability. Therefore, through our research, we resorted to investigating the issue of reducing thermal load in buildings through the use of thick-walled facades in the southern and western facades, where we studied a building with two windows with windows on the southern and western facades and another without these windows and with thick walls, for two locations, the first in central Iraq, which is the city of Baghdad, and the second in …

The Impact Of Ethyl Levulinate Additive On Diesel Engine Performance And Emissions: An Experimental Study, Maha Ali Ghadbaan

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This study explores the environmental and operational impact of adding Ethyl Levulinate—a biodegradable ester derived from biomass—to diesel fuel. A fuel blend known as B5El6 (comprising 5% biodiesel and 6% Ethyl Levulinate) was prepared and tested experimentally using a single-cylinder diesel engine operating at a constant speed of 1500 rpm under full load conditions. Performance metrics and emission data were recorded, and a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was conducted using the IMPACT2002+ methodology.

The results revealed that B5El6 significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions (100 kg CO2 eq) and improved ecosystem quality. However, it presented challenges in terms of human health …

The Role Of The Scenario In Formulating The Contemporary Architectural Text, Rounaq Arif Mohsin, Abbas Ali Hamza, Bashar Shamil Alkhafaji

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

In order to create an integrated architectural text, which is a complicated art that blends beauty and practical elements, a rigorous design procedure is necessary. In this situation, the scenario’s role becomes crucial in developing the current architectural text and directing architectural approaches. In order to better understand how the scenario influences the design process and the interactions between various architectural aspects, this project intends to explore and analyze the impact of the scenario in developing and refining architectural text formulation approaches.

The study looks at the idea of a scenario and how it has been used in architecture, as …

Investigation Of Some Physical Properties Of Slurry Infiltrated Fibrous Concrete (Sifcon) Under Different Curing Times, Rand Kh. Mahmoud, Mohmmed Juad Khadhim, Fayq Hasan Jabbar

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This research studied the effects of different types fibers (Basalt, Carbon and Basalt-Carbon hybrid mix) and curing ages (7, 14, 28 and 56 days) on some physical properties of - Slurry infiltrated fibrous concrete (SIFCON). Density, ultrasonic pulse velocity UPV, Poisson’s ratio and water absorption were measured for the experimental study with 30% cement replacement by Class F fly ash to increase sustainability. It was found that properties were significantly affected by the type and dosage of fiber admixture. The UPV was enhanced by basalt fibers and the absorption reduced up to an optimal range of 3–5% after which agglomeration …

Mechanical And Durability Properties Of Cement Panels Reinforced With Hybrid And Pva Fibers, Shukran H. Faraj, Mohammed J. Kadhim

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This study examines the synergistic effects of hybrid fibers (HF) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers on the structural and thermal properties of silica-fume cement panels. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine mortar mixtures with varying fiber content to assess their enhancement of microstructure. We conducted several experiments on compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strength, in addition to water absorption and thermal conductivity. The results indicate that 1% HF exhibits superior mechanical qualities, with a compressive strength of 46.89 MPa, a flexural strength of 8.56 MPa, and a reduced thermal conductivity of 0.83 W/m•K. PVA fibers at 2% enhance …

Experimental Analysis Of Droplet Deformation Dynamics In Combined Dc Electric And Shear Flow Fields Using Dpiv, Ayad Ibrahim Khlewee

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This paper presented a systematic study of such droplet deformation at the intersection of uniform DC electric field and hydrodynamic shear flow, in which we focused on conductivity ratio (R) and permittivity ratio (S), describing their influence. The results demonstrate that droplet dynamics is extremely sensitive to the regime: under DC only, either elongation or compression depending on whether R > S or R S, similarly to classical EHD predictions. Under shear-only conditions, deformation was dictated by the balance of elongational stresses (EC) and rotational stresses (RC), with increasing capillary number (Ca) leading to progressive elongation and oscillatory orientation dynamics. When …

The Imaginary In Architecture: The Conceptual Structure Of The Imaginary And Its Manifestations In Architectural Text, Noora Ghadir Hlail, Abbas Ali Hamza Al Greiza

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

This study explores the concept of the imaginary as a collective cognitive and cultural structure that shapes symbolic reality through images, myths, and deeply rooted symbols in collective memory. The research applies this concept within the field of architecture, aiming to understand how the imaginary is embodied in architectural texts as symbolic carriers of identity and cultural meaning. Adopting a descriptive-analytical methodology, the study develops a theoretical framework comprising key components—preconditions, mechanisms, and traits of the imaginary—and applies it to two selected case studies: the General Secretariat of the Iraqi Council of Ministers and the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum. The …

Generative Ai For Method Development In Analytical Chemistry: A New Paradigm In Experimental Design And Optimization, Yasir Fathi Mahmood

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

The fast development of artificial intelligence (AI), especially generative AI models, is changing the environment of analytical chemistry. As classical method generation in analytical methods relies on manual trial-and-error methodology as well as statistical methods, generative AI is a new paradigm with automated generation of experimental methodology and optimization. In this paper, the authors discuss the use of generative AI-based technologies, including large language models (LLMs) and neural network-based generators, to create new, efficient, and customized methods of analysis. The paper examines existing applications, technology frameworks, and issues and offers a roadmap with regards to the future incorporation of generative …

Numerical Modeling And Experimental Validation Of A High-Temperature Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage System Using Metallic Phase Change Materials For Concentrated Solar Power Applications, Fouad Hashim Sharhan

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

To ensure reliable performance for the power-block of CSP plants, high power density and near-isothermal discharge must be achieved. A robust means of achieving this is through thermal energy storage (TES). High temperature latent heat storage (LHS) with phase change materials (PCMs) can serve these purposes, however the conventional salts used in PCMs typically suffer from low thermal conductivity that limits power density and increases energy storage charging/discharging times. This manuscript investigates ways to address these limitations using high temperature metallic phase change materials (MPCMs) while also developing a validated numerical framework to aid in their design. To this end, …

Thermal Performance Evaluation Of Solar Cooling Systems For Educational Facilities In Baghdad, Yasser Alawi Mohammed Attia Al-Jubouri

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Engineering Sciences

Schools in Baghdad also suffer from poor thermal comfort, which is a common problem in high-temperature and low-humidity arid climates such as that of the city, where using cooling devices leads to a large energy demand and overloads on the national power grid. Such study offers a thorough assessment of the thermal performance of solar-based cooling systems in an efficient manner to be suitable for educational buildings in Baghdad. The analysis is centred on a solar thermal cooling system with absorption as the heat interaction medium, and an experimental characterisation and mathematical simulation itself are performed. A pilot installation, consisting …

Curing Duration Optimization To Reduce Shrinkage Cracking In One-Part Alkali-Activated Slag Concrete, A. Sadrmomtazi, H. Zanganeh

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

The consequences of inadequate curing on one-part alkali-activated slag concrete (O-AAS) performance relative to ordinary Portland cement concrete (OPCC) have been investigated in this research. Prior to exposure to unsaturated conditions, samples underwent initial moist curing for durations ranging from 24 hours to one year. The testing program included compressive strength evaluation, chloride ion transport analysis, and measurement of free and restrained shrinkage. In addition, cylindrical cores were extracted from concrete columns to assess internal strength and chloride penetration resistance. Under unsaturated exposure, O-AAS exhibited a strength-aging phenomenon, with up to a 37% decrease in compressive strength over 360 days, …

Laboratory Investigation And Numerical Modelling Effect Of Carbon Nanotubes On Hot Mix Asphalt Permanent Displacement, Sepehr Saedi, Auwal Usman Nadada

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

One of the primary causes of asphalt pavement deterioration is rutting; in contrast, one of the most effective methods to address this type of damage is the use of additives and quality evaluation during the design stages. In this research, laboratory testing and modeling using Abaqus software were employed to validate the laboratory results and predict and assess the potential for rutting. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were selected as an additive due to their exceptional mechanical properties and molecular interactions with bitumen. These nanotubes were used to modify the bitumen for the preparation of laboratory samples. The laboratory results from the …

Influence Of Early Microwave Curing On Performance Of Slag-Based Geopolymer Mortars, Ahmet Taşdemı̇R, Abdulkadir Çevı̇K

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

In this article, an experimental study was conducted to examine the effect of curing time and microwave power on the compressive strength of early microwave-cured slag based geopolymers. Geopolymers have the potential to serve as an environmentally friendly substitute for cement-based building materials, and the use of microwave curing to geopolymers holds the promise of substantial strength improvement. Different microwave curing energies (300 - 800 Watts) were utilized at varying durations (10 - 60 minutes) on demoulded mortar specimens after one day. After that, compressive strength tests were conducted on both the cured and uncured specimens at three different ages: …

Comprehensive Mechatronic Design Methodology For 6-Dof Stationary Lower Limb Rehabilitation Exoskeleton Robot With Safety-Integrated Control Architecture, Javlonbek Rakhmatillaev Mr., Nodirbek Kimsanboyev Mr., Umidjon Takabaev Mr., Zafar Juraev Dr.

Chemical Technology, Control and Management

This paper presents the mechatronic design of a proposed six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) stationary lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton (SLLRE) robot, developed through a comprehensive mechatronic design methodology that includes mechanical design, actuator and sensor selection, and the development of a control structure based on a safety-oriented control approach. The proposed 6-DOF SLLRE mechanical design introduces a comprehensive mechanical structure comprising bilateral hip, knee, and ankle joints, degrees of freedom, joint ranges of motion, human parameters for rehabilitation training, as well as the frames and structural elements of the proposed system. Furthermore, the selection of appropriate sensors, actuators, and control architecture for the …

Use Of Alaçatı Stone Aggregate In Conventional And Self-Consolidating Concretes, Tahir Kemal Erdem

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

Alaçatı stone or Alapietra stone is widely used mostly for building cladding. However, its production and use in the construction sites generate high amounts of waste (debris), causing environmental pollution in Çeşme which is a touristic district. This study investigated the reuse of Alaçatı stone as lightweight aggregate (LWA) in both conventional and self-consolidating concrete (SCC) mixtures. The concretes were prepared to have three different water-to-cement ratios (w/c), which were 0.38, 0.42 and 0.48. For each w/c, a conventional concrete mixture and two SCC mixtures with 60 or 70 cm slump flow were produced by varying the superplasticizer SP content. …

A Decision Support Model For Building Material And Component Reuse In The Context Of Circular Buildings, Havva Aksel

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

Construction activities cause significant environmental impacts such as waste generation, pollution, resource consumption, and land use, which are expected to increase with global construction demands. To mitigate these environmental problems, the circular building occurs as an emerging concept depending on in the circular economy, which aims to minimize waste and redefine the “end-of-life” concept by reducing, reusing, recycling, and recovering materials. The reuse of building materials and components (BMCs) from existing structures represents a crucial strategy for achieving circularity in the built environment. Within this framework, design plays a key role. However, designing with reclaimed BMCs remains complex due to …

Assessment Of The Melt Quality Of A 30% Scrap Adc12 Aluminium Alloy Using The Inclusion And Fluidity Measurement Instrument (Ifmi) With Mullite Ceramic Filters, Gusti Ruri Ruri Lestari, Sandya Ananda Riswan, Muhammad Anis, Ahmad Ashari, Paramita Vidya Ayuningtyas, Bambang Suharno Prof, Donanta Dhaneswara

Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings

The increasing demand for sustainable practices in the metal casting industry has driven the use of recycled aluminum alloys such as ADC12. However, the addition of aluminum scrap tends to increase oxide inclusions, which reduce melt fluidity and compromise casting quality. This study utilizes the Inclusion and Fluidity Measurement Instrument (IFMI), equipped with mullite ceramic filters, to assess the melt quality of ADC12 aluminum alloy containing 30% scrap. Fluidity and inclusion characteristics were evaluated at five pouring temperatures (660°C, 680°C, 700°C, 720°C, and 740°C). The results show that fluidity increased with temperature, reaching a peak of 84.6 g·s⁻¹ at 740°C, …

Equipment Criticality Analysis To Determine Asset Integrity Management System Scheme In Supporting Production Optimization Scenarios In The Aeging Field, Donny Andryanto, Donanta Dhaneswara

Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings

This research investigates the production decline and cost increase in the X&Y oil and gas fields from 2022 to 2023. Production fell by 34%, while production costs per barrel rose by 79%. To address these issues, a series of optimization processes are proposed. These aim to restructure and enhance the production facilities to reduce current production costs. The optimizations include reducing pressure at the PPP Platform in 2024. Additional steps include shutting down CPP-ORF 14” pipelines and most processes at CPP 2 Platform by 2027 to convert it into an accommodation platform. Further, the plan involves optimizing the release of …

An Overview Of Biomass-Derived Graphene Oxide And Its Characteristics For Future Sustainable Applications, Afif Wardana, Ahmad Nabil Shahab, Donanta Dhaneswara, Nofrijon Sofyan

Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings

The production of graphene oxide (GO) from biomass presents considerable promise as a sustainable alternative substitute for traditional semiconductors. Biomass waste, abundant and often underutilized worldwide, is distinguished by its high carbon content and regenerative characteristics, rendering it an optimal resource for sustainable material production. By heating its biopolymers, lignocellulosic biomass can be used as a new material to make graphene, which forms three-dimensional turbostratic crystallites. These crystallites, composed of partially defective aromatic carbon sheets with graphite-like characteristics, make it easier to create GO with specialized functions for cutting-edge applications. Its capability underscores the revolutionary potential of biomass waste in …

Morphological Test Of Areca Nut Fiber Ceramic Membrane Using Scanning Electron Microscopy Energy Dispersive X-Ray Mapping Spectroscopy, Amelia Marzain, Siti Umi Kalsum, Marhadi Marhadi, Ahmad Nabil Shahab

Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings

This study investigates the potential of ceramic membranes derived from areca nut fiber as a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable material for the removal of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) from groundwater. Two types of membranes were fabricated: one without activation and one chemically activated using 10% sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The morphological and elemental characteristics of both membranes were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) mapping. The concentrations of Fe and Mn before and after treatment were measured using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The NaOH-activated membrane exhibited a more porous surface structure and higher oxygen content, …

Analysis Of Leakage In Nearshore Pipelines Using Fitness For Service Method To Ensure Mechanical Integrity Based On Api-579 Level 3, Elriandri Elriandri, Dedi Priadi

Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings

The Fitness for Service (FFS) analysis is performed as a quantitative assessment to evaluate the integrity condition of a pipeline. Essentially, FFS assessment helps determine whether equipment components can operate safely despite existing deficiencies. This evaluation is carried out using the Finite Element Method (FEM). In the case of an underwater pipeline that experiences leak due to anchor pull at the flange connection, it undergoes plastic deformation and is lifted approximately 1 meter. As a mitigation step, inspection and repairs have been carried out by the company. Subsequently, modeling is performed to reconstruct the deformation process of the pipeline. Then, …

Durability Of Alkali-Activated Concretes Under 5% Sulfuric Acid Environment, Celal Karabaş, Anıl Niş

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

The investigation focused on the resistance to 5% sulfuric acid degradation of the alkali-activated concretes (AAC). The AAC was manufactured using a blended binder of 50% slag and 50% F-type fly ash. The AAC was activated using a blend of 14 M sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate, with a hydroxide-to-silicate ratio of 1/2,5. Six AAC were produced against a 5% sulfuric acid environment, varying the binder amounts (400–500–600 kg/m3) and activator-binder (A/B) ratios (0,45–0,55). The chemical resistance of AAC was evaluated by visual appearance, variation in weight and compressive strengths. The findings pointed out that more gypsum and higher weight …

Comprehensive Risk Assessment For Construction Site Managers In Kosovo: A Mixed-Method Approach, Muhamet Ahmeti, Besian Sinani

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

This study developed and validated a hybrid ISO 31000:2018 Kosovo-compliant risk assessment framework tailored for construction site managers operating within transitional economies. The research employed audits of 20 ISO-certified contractors in Pristina, Kosovo, along with field observations, interviews, and quantitative risk matrices. The findings indicate a critical concentration of risk, with 70% of firms classified as "High" or “Very High” risk. The most prevalent hazards identified were working at height without collective protection, unprotected electrical systems, and manual handling of heavy materials. Regression analysis revealed that firms with a designated safety champion achieved significantly lower risk scores, whereas those with …