Mechanical Engineering Commons^™

Development And Characterization Of Sustainable Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites With Date Palm Agro-Residues As Reinforcement, Ansar Kareem

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) are extensively used in various industrial applications owing to their exceptional mechanical, material, and tribological properties. This led to the development of AMCs with every possible aluminum alloy as matrix, incorporated with various reinforcement materials to achieve desired material properties. There has been an increasing trend in the utilization of agricultural and industrial waste products as reinforcement material in AMCs. Date palm trees produce huge quantity of agricultural waste in different forms. Usually, these wastes are burned or disposed of in landfills which cause environmental pollution. Date palm agro-wastes can be incinerated to produce date palm …

First-Principles Theory Of Five-And Six-Phonon Scattering, Yi Xia

Mechanical and Materials Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

igher-order phonon scatterings beyond fourth order remain largely unexplored despite their potential importance in strongly anharmonic materials at elevated temperatures. We develop a theoretical formalism for first-principles calculation of five- and six-phonon scatterings using Green’s function techniques based on a diagrammatic formalism, and systematically investigate multi-phonon interactions in Si, MgO, and BaO from room temperature to near melting points. Our calculations reveal dramatically different material-dependent behaviors: while five- and six-phonon processes remain negligible in Si even at high temperatures, they become increasingly important in MgO near its melting point (3100 K) and in BaO at intermediate temperatures (1200 K). Most …

Measurement Uncertainty, Barton L. Smith, Douglas R. Neal

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Textbooks

This text is based on the graduate Measurements course notes from BLS at Utah State University. It is intended as a textbook for graduate students in engineering or physics or as a reference text.

If one collects several texts on measurement uncertainty, it quickly becomes clear that the measurement uncertainty community lacks a consistent language or nomenclature. This can be confusing to a new reader who may view measurement uncertainty as a very old and settled topic. The lack of consensus on nomenclature likely stems from the lack of a clear winner–a paradigm and nomenclature set sufficiently superior to be …

Experimental Investigation: Performance Of Ranque-Hilsch Vortex Tubes Under Various Surface Boundary Conditions, Ahmad Al-Najjar

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

The Ranque–Hilsch vortex tube (RHVT) is a passive thermos-fluid device that splits compressed gas into simultaneous cold and hot streams through strong swirling flow inside a slender tube, without moving parts. This study experimentally examines how external boundary conditions applied to the tube wall influence RHVT performance. Three wall conditions were imposed: (i) externally cooled (cooling), (ii) externally heated (heating), and (iii) adiabatic (insulated). Tests were conducted with air over an inlet pressure range of 2–6 bar. The primary objective was to understand the extent to which wall thermal condition modifies temperature separation and energy efficiency. Performance was quantified using …

“How Can Ai Data Centers In The U.S. Meet Projected Electricity Demands By 2030?, Aiden M. Matano

Sustainable Supply Chain Management

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence is driving a sharp increase in U.S. electricity demand, with AI-driven data centers emerging as a central contributor through 2030. This paper asks how U.S. AI data centers can meet projected electricity needs while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions. Using a supply-chain and systems perspective, it analyzes the full energy chain of AI data centers: upstream electricity supply and grid deliverability, midstream facility design and grid interaction, and downstream operational practices, waste management, and disclosure. Drawing on recent projections from the International Energy Agency, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and U.S. federal guidance, the paper shows …

Localized Nuclear Utility For Erau Environmental Improvement, Timothy Schroeder, Jacob Blanton, Christopher Anderson

Sustainability Conference

The reliance of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) on energy supplied by Florida Power & Light (FPL), which currently draws large amounts of power from fossil fuel sources, is continuously suboptimal both environmentally and financially. This study proposes assessing the feasibility of deploying a campus scale nuclear reactor tailored to ERAU’s power consumption profile. This serves as a path toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting dependence on external fossil fuel generation. The methods used are primarily literature review(s), and numerical analysis on comparable use cases. The literature reviews focused on design theory and yield of nuclear reactors on a …

Optimizing Driving Waveforms To Enhance Inkjet Printing Speed, Chao Jan Sui, Wenchao A. Zhou

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Inkjet printing has been extensively employed across various industrial applications due to its capability to produce high-resolution outputs and accommodate a diverse range of materials. However, its printing speed (volumetric printing rate or volumetric productivity) has remained a bottleneck for large-scale manufacturing. This study introduces a new strategy aimed at enhancing the speed of piezoelectric inkjet printing by optimizing waveform parameters. Expanding on our prior work, which analyzed the relationship between driving signal parameters and key factors like droplet volume and jetting frequency, we now focus on optimizing these parameters to maximize printing speed. To establish a fair comparison across …

Optimization Of Rheological Models Using Machine Learning-Based Surrogates, Sourav Saha

LSU Master's Theses

This study addresses the challenge of accurately modeling flows of complex, multiphase media through fluid machines, where highly viscous, compressible, and shear-thinning behavior of the medium complicates the construction of predictive models. Such media include slurries, biomass, foods, and other materials of high value and societal importance. A high-fidelity CFD model of a screw-type fluid machine with an outlet flow restriction is developed. The flowing medium is treated as a single-phase, compressible, non-Newtonian fluid. The model incorporates a non-linear pressure-dependent density model and a strain-rate-dependent viscosity law (Cross power law). A parametric study is conducted by varying key rheological parameters …

Scientific Characterization Of Historic Mortars Dating From The 15th-Century Of A Historical Building In Algeria: A Case Study, M. E. Belgacem, N. Rabahi-Touloum, R. Neves, Y. Ouldkhaoua

Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies

This research investigates the historic mortars (Aggregate/Binder (A/B) ratio) of a historical patrimony building, dating from the 15th century, in Algeria, for restoration purposes. It is well known that thorough characterization is essential for successful restoration. To this end, several techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), optical microscope were used to characterize the historic mortars. A mechanical test was used to characterize the compressive strength of a historic mortar. For a comprehensive characterization, A/B ratios were estimated using both Digital Image Analyses (DIA) and chemical analyses. The results obtained provided clear information on …

Analysis And Simulation Of The Effect Of Voids In Dually Reinforced Particle And Short Fiber Composites, Matthew Mckinley Luci

Graduate Theses - Mechanical Engineering

This thesis investigates dual-reinforced polymer composites tailored for flywheel energy storage, combining short, chopped carbon fibers for load bearing with iron particulates for multifunctionality. A unified experimental–computational workflow was developed: tensile coupons were fabricated and tested, machine compliance was quantified using neat resin and removed from all curves, and elastic moduli were extracted with robust MATLAB routines. Parallel finite-element models in ANSYS 2023R reproduced the dog-bone geometry with standardized meshing, named selections, and displacement-controlled loading. Four material states—neat resin, resin and iron, resin and short carbon fiber, and the iron and fiber hybrid— were evaluated. Results show carbon fibers dominate …

Electromigration In Eutectic Gold-Tin (80au20sn-Wt%) Solder Joints, Whit Vinson, David Huitink

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Eutectic gold-tin solder joints (80Au20Snwt%) with a diameter of 300 mu m diameter were subjected to electromigration (EM) conditions of 10,000-20,000 A/cm2 in the ambient temperature range of 125-215 degrees C. The present work examines a set of 36 experimental test runs using two different test coupons (18 runs with each coupon type and a total of 90 joints tested). Seven of the 36 coupons survived the maximum test duration period of 500 h. One coupon type created a linear electric current pathway through two lengths of 254-mu m-diameter copper wire connected by a single gold-tin joint. The other coupon …

Cal Poly (Cp) Legged Robot, Sebastian Barboza, Jonathan Mchale, Isabella Sorensen, Isaac Golan

Mechanical Engineering

The Navy spends $60 billion annually on dangerous ship maintenance performed by sailors. To save lives and resources, the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) is looking for robots to replace sailors and navigate ships to perform various tasks. Robots with tracks and wheels have been most recently explored by NSWC, however they have encountered significant problems navigating the ships, especially through naval ship doorways with a significant ledge. By using a legged robot, our team hopes to solve these problems and have a robot that can navigate the ship with relative ease and stability.

Examining The Perception Of Maritime Instructors In Upskilling And Reskilling Seafarers Towards Decarbonization, Michelle Margallo

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Environmental Regulations And The Exploitation Of Deep Seabed Minerals : A New Era For The“Mining Code” Of The International Seabed Authority (Isa)?, Mikyla D'Antoinette Frederick-Winter

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Human Element And Emerging Technologies : Imo Efforts To Address The Impact Of Digitalization In The Context Of Automation On Board, Eduardo Matías Hidalgo Bassi

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Assessing Marpol Annex V Port Reception Facilities Of The National Port Of Liberia (Freeport Of Monrovia), Barbara Wade Cummings

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Ded Printing Process Modeling Using Metal Matrix Composites: In-Situ Feedstock Mixing With Variable Compositions And Empirical Validation, Muhammad Arif Mahmood, Sabin Mihai, Diana Chioibasu, Andrei C. Popescu, Frank Liou

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is a promising technology for producing metal matrix composites (MMXCs), but precise control over deposited layer dimensions, particularly in multi-material systems, remains difficult to achieve due to the complex interdependence of operating parameters such as laser parameters, feedstock flow rate, and beam energy attenuation. To address these problems, this work proposes an analytical model that predicts the width, height, and depth of the deposited layers using mixed feedstock compositions in-situ, with a focus on Inconel-718 and TiC MMXCs. The model takes into account variables such as laser power, feedstock density, and mixing ratios to improve layer …

Bending Fatigue In Additively Manufactured Metals: A Review Of Current Research And Future Directions, Md Bahar Uddin, Sriram Praneeth Isanaka, Frank Liou

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Metal additive manufacturing (MAM), also referred to as 3D printing, has proven remarkable in the fabrication of complex metal components in multiple sectors. However, the assessment of this revolutionary process through bending fatigue is frequently impeded due to concerns about mechanical and physical conditions of the printed components. The unique layer-by-layer production process results in varied microstructures, anisotropy, and intrinsic defects that considerably differ from traditionally manufactured wrought metals. This review article aims to integrate and evaluate historical and contemporary research on the bending fatigue of additively manufactured materials. More specifically, the impact of process parameters, build orientation, surface conditions, …

Powder Bed Fusion Of Stainless Steel 304l-Nbc Nanocomposite Produced By Ball Milling Method Using A Laser Beam, Khalid Hussain Solangi, Junaid Iqbal Bhatti, Irfan Ali Tunio, Imdad Ali Memon, Temoor Abbas Larik, Lianyi Chen

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Metal powders with uniformly dispersed nanoparticles, suitable shape, and size for additive manufacturing (AM) processes are highly demanded. However, it is difficult to manufacture metal matrix nanocomposite powders (MMNCs) with uniform dispersion of nanoparticles, optimized shape, and size. This study used high-energy ball milling to disperse NbC nanoparticles with an average length of 400 nm (ex-situ reinforcement) in a Stainless Steel (SS) 304 L matrix. In detail, SS304L-5wt% NbC powders were ball-milled from 4 to 10 h. The results showed that the milled powder particles experienced significant cold-welding during the milling time of 4–6 h, with a wide size distribution. …

Marine Environmental Protection : An Investigation Into Existing Global Laws Addressing Marine Plastic Pollution, Maryland De Castro

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Assessment Of Recreational Safety Protocols In Philippine Beaches And Resorts : A Coast Guard Perspective, Jazzyneth Cacnio

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Integrating Environmental Impact Assessment Into International Shipping Governance : A Bbnj-Pssa Synergy Framework, Thi Thuy Linh Pham

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Occupational Safety In Fishing Vessels : A Comparative Analysis Of Namibia, South Africa And Mozambique In The Sadc Region, Fiina Ndakulilwa Twiihaleni Shaanika

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Optimization Of Aids To Navigation System In Papua New Guinea, Justus Wayne

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

An Assessment Of The Impact Of Illegal Sand Mining On The Coastline Of Liberia, Alphena J. Logan

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Role Of Atmospheric Turbulence On Cloud Droplet Distribution And Droplet Impaction On An Airfoil, Arash Shad, Hashnayne Ahmed, ‪Nadim Zgheib, S. Balachandar, S. A. Sherif

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

We conduct turbulence-informed Euler–Lagrange simulations of droplet-laden flow to examine the effects of atmospheric turbulence on droplet impingement characteristics on a NACA 0012 airfoil. We implement statistical overloading, whereby we inject millions of droplets, ranging in diameter from 1 to 160 microns, upstream of the airfoil at an average streamwise velocity of 120 m/s. Within a fraction of a second, these droplets would have either impinged on the airfoil or continued downstream. While the incoming air flow is maintained uniform, droplet injection is informed by ambient turbulence, affecting both the droplet velocity distribution as well as the size-dependent preferential concentration …

Intelligent Real-Time Flotation Froth Stability Monitoring Using Embedded Computer Vision: Lead (Pb) Processing Case Study, Ahmed Bendaouia, Taha Ismaili, Ismail Najib, Oussama Hasidi, Intissar Benzakour, Jianzhi Li, El Hassan Abdelwahed

Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering Faculty Publications

Froth stability in flotation refers to the ability of the froth layer to remain intact and avoid collapsing during the flotation process. A stable froth layer is crucial to maximizing mineral recovery and ensuring the efficient operation of flotation cells. Several factors influence the stability of the froth, including the depth of the froth, the crowding, the size of the bubbles, and the rate of movement of the froth. In this study, our main objective is to analyze and evaluate froth stability in real time, since it plays a critical role in process optimization for flotation-based mineral processing. We propose …

Interface And Mechanical Properties Of 1d And 1d-2d Carbon Nanomaterials In Copper Matrix, Abigail L. Eaton, Arun K. Nair

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Low-dimensional carbon nanomaterials have unique electron density distributions which warrant their classification as 1D and 2D, and they are useful for a wide variety of nanocomposite applications. This group includes 1D carbyne, which has high stiffness, and a 1D-2D hybrid composed of carbyne and a highly elastic cyclo[18] carbon ring (2D). We use density functional theory and molecular dynamics methods to study the interface properties of carbyne and the hybrid on Cu (111) surface and determine the mechanical properties of nanocomposites comprised of the nanomaterials as a fiber in Cu matrix at varying temperatures. We predict that on Cu (111) …

Experimental Investigation: Performance Of Ranque–Hilsch Vortex Tubes Under Various Surface Boundary Conditions, Ahmad Al-Najjar

Theses

The Ranque–Hilsch vortex tube (RHVT) is a passive thermofluid device that splits compressed gas into simultaneous cold and hot streams through strong swirling flow inside a slender tube, without moving parts. This study experimentally examines how external boundary conditions applied to the tube wall influence RHVT performance. Three wall conditions were imposed: (i) externally cooled (cooling), (ii) externally heated (heating), and (iii) adiabatic (insulated). Tests were conducted with air over an inlet pressure range of 2–6 bar. The primary objective was to understand the extent to which wall thermal condition modifies temperature separation and energy efficiency. Performance was quantified using …

Microstructural And Mechanical Characterization Of Aa6082 /Sic/Al2o3 Hybrid Nano Composite Fabricated By Ultrasonic Assisted Stir Casting, Anasmon Koderi Valappil

Theses

The utilization of aluminium alloys has increased rapidly in past decades due to the increasing demand for lightweight and high-performance materials. Among the popular aluminium alloys, AA6082 is widely favoured for its excellent combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability. Most previous work, however, has concentrated on either on micro scale reinforcement or on single ceramic particles, leaving very few experimental studies on the use of hybrid nano reinforcement in AA6082. Therefore, to further enhance its mechanical properties without compromising its inherent advantages, hybrid metal matrix composites were developed using various nano particulates as reinforcements. In this current study, AA6082-based …