Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology(MJET)

Phase change material (PCM) integrated solar water heating systems represent a critical technology for sustainable energy applications, yet face significant performance limitations due to poor thermal conductivity and lack of intelligent control optimization. This study aims to develop and validate a novel machine learning-driven optimization control technique for PCM-based solar water heating systems. The methodology employs a comprehensive three-phase mathematical model encompassing pre-melting, melting transition, and post-melting thermal dynamics, coupled with a neural network controller operating on real-time environmental data to predict optimal pump flow multipliers. Comprehensive simulation validation across five environmental conditions and three PCM materials demonstrated consistent performance improvements with energy storage enhancements of 2.5-4.1% (3.3% average) and heat transfer enhancement ratios of 1.03-1.04×. This research provides the first complete ML-based control system for PCM thermal energy storage with retrofit-compatible optimization requiring no hardware modifications, offering a quantifiable performance benefit for existing installations.

Global developments have led to a steady increase in demand for light petroleum derivatives, which are more valuable than heavy derivatives. Therefore, it was necessary to seek unconventional methods for supplying them, such as the use of thermal cracking technology. In this research, the residual crude oil produced from atmospheric distillation unit was selected and a study was conducted to convert it into light petroleum derivatives using the thermal cracking process. The efficiency and accuracy of the technology used in this research were studied by selecting parameters such as API gravity and conversion ratio from used heavy fuel oil (API = 15.5) to light petroleum products. To achieve optimum operating conditions and the best desired process results, experiments were designed using response surface methodology (RSM). The process study was selected to be within the temperature range (350-450°C) and time (30-60 min), where the best possible specifications for the resulting light petroleum derivatives would be achieved, with an API density of (32.1), a conversion rate of (79.2%), a time of (45) min, and a temperature of (421)°C

The recent advancing of computational resources, led to a significant improvement in histopathological image analysis. These improvements helped to diagnosis various diseases and dive into cellular level of the tissue for accurate prognosis. Therefore, an automated algorithm is proposed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. This paper proposes a detection technique to detect the cells nuclei on histopathological images that are stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). The proposed technique applies multiple thresholds on the grayscale image version of the H&E-stained image and from each resulted binary image, several centroids are extracted for each disconnected foreground region. Three measures such as area, centroid location, and circularity ratio have been used to determine the selection of nuclei seed. The technique assigns certainty weights based on threshold values, enhancing the reliability of detected seeds. Comparisons with existing methods, like the generalized Laplacian of Gaussian (gLoG) technique, demonstrate the proposed method’s efficiency and accuracy, providing a robust foundation for further segmentation processes.

Two-way slabs are widely used members in constructions due to the huge necessity for them because it has the property of carrying loads for the columns, piles, and even the soil. In order to extend the two-way slabs for larger spans, designers need to maximize the slab thickness, which will increase the structure’s self-weight, which may not be able to resist. So, designers treated such a problem by increasing the overall concrete strength of slabs in order to prevent the choice of increasing the slab thickness. This article reviewed the previous studies to summarize some significant points, such as the effect of using steel fibers and openings within slabs was also investigated, as well as the use of reactive powder concrete. It was concluded that the severity of openings in slabs depends on their location, shape, and size. In some cases, larger openings might behave structurally like separate beam systems, but it often still reduce capacity significantly. Also, the ultimate load was decreased by increasing the opening size with the same CFRP (Carbon-fiber reinforced polymer) reinforcement ratio. Furthermore, the method of strengthening with CFRP is more effective than the method of using Steel fibers (SF).

Reliable drawing dies are crucial for successful modern wire production. If these parts fail, repairs can be time-consuming and costly. This study examines how drawing speed affects die reliability within a standard commercial range of 50 to 400 m/min. We tested 750 tungsten carbide dies using various methods, including Weibull reliability analysis. Fifty dies were tested at each of 15 different speeds. Our results show a strong inverse relationship between die lifespan and drawing speed, and a significant direct relationship between operating temperature and wear rate. As drawing speed increased from 50 to 400 m/min, the average die life decreased by 65%, the wear rate increased exponentially, and the average operating temperature rose linearly. We identified three failure zones: a moderate wear phase (50–150 m/min), a rapid failure stage (300–400 m/min), and a period of accelerated degradation (150–300 m/min). In each zone, different wear mechanisms may occur. These findings help manufacturers extend die life, improve efficiency, implement predictive maintenance, and develop new die technologies that could reduce costs by 15–25%.

Open and unsanitary landfills have served for many years in developing countries such as Iraq as a standard and economically inexpensive method of solid waste disposal. Leachate generated from these dumps’ bases seriously affects the surrounding environment, especially groundwater sources. There have been reports of potential environmental hazards associated with leachate in the Al-Diwaniyah open landfill in Iraq. Therefore, in this investigation the quality of groundwater and characteristics of observation wells around the dumpsite was studied. Groundwater samples collected from four hand-excavated wells at a dumpsite were analyzed periodically using standard methods in dry and wet seasons through the period (September 2023–March 2024) in order to evaluate leachate pollutants and their impact on groundwater quality. The main analyzed parameters in leachate and groundwater included pH, Electrical Conductivity, Turbidity, Total Suspended Solid, Total Dissolved Solid, BOD5, COD, Chloride, Sulphate, Nitrate, in addition to heavy metals including Iron, Zinc, Copper, Chromium, Lead, and Cadmium. To illustrate the spatial distribution of pollutants during the dry and rainy seasons, indicators were used to assess groundwater quality. The results of the groundwater quality index (Canadian model) reported poor groundwater and unsuitable for drinking and agriculture in (GW1, GW2) neighboring the dumpsite in the range of (100-500) m from the dumpsite. In contrast, GW3 water quality is often threatened, except for GW4, which was unsuitable for drinking but can be used for agriculture. Extending this research to other regions would enhance the environmental monitoring of groundwater and assess possible threats to human health in the study area. Constructing an engineered landfill that complies with authorized environmental standards would also be beneficial.

The shear strength of reinforced concrete beams is largely governed by the compressive strength of concrete, which represents a major component of the overall shear capacity. Incorporating steel fibers into the concrete matrix has been shown to enhance this capacity and significantly improve structural performance. A comprehensive review of previous experimental studies indicates that the shear strength is primarily influenced by the longitudinal reinforcement ratio and the shear span ratio (a/d), while the effect of compressive strength becomes more evident in high strength concrete. It was also observed that the inclusion of steel fibers at a volume fraction of approximately 0.75% can increase the shear strength of beams by 25-35% compared with plain concrete specimens. Moreover, steel fiber-reinforced beams demonstrated superior crack control and enhanced ductility, thereby reducing the risk of sudden brittle shear failure. Notably, the improvement in shear behavior was found to be relatively independent of the fiber type, while the overall workability of the concrete remained within acceptable limits. These findings highlight research gaps regarding the optimum fiber dosage under different loading conditions and long-term performance.

This study presents the growth and optimization of a new design of an electro/photocatalytic organic compounds oxidation batch reactor with a digital baffle for refinery wastewater (RWW). The system combined electro and photo oxidation with zinc oxide as a photo catalyst by using a stainless steel anode and an iron cathode. The combined design was operated under varying oxidation times (5–25 min), pH solution (3–9), agitation speed (100-300), and catalyst (10–50 mg/L) to assess treatment competence and enhance working parameters by Box-Behnken design under response surface design. The digital baffled configuration was used to enhance mixing and irritation distribution, confirming the activation of the catalyst and mass transfer throughout the batch electrooxidation reactor. Results established important organic degradation, with electro-oxidation alone attaining a maximum removal efficiency of 91.2%, while the combined photo-electrochemical process reached up to 99.5% competence under optimal conditions of 25 min,300 RPM, 50 ppm catalyst concentration, and 9 pH. The reactor’s presentation was credited to the synergistic effects of free radical production, the activity of photocatalytic, and enhanced hydrodynamics eased by the digital baffling design for organic compounds in refinery wastewater.

Kinetic architecture focuses on the design of building elements that can change their shapes, positions, or configurations in response to environmental conditions or user needs, using mechanical, natural, or smart techniques while maintaining structural stability. The research problem was to investigate methods of integrating movement with construction Systems in the design of kinetic buildings to achieve functional, aesthetic, and sustainable outcomes. The study aimed to present a theoretical framework developed through a thematic analysis of previous studies, including factors of shared movement systems, construction methods, and ways of integrating them into the practice of kinetic building design. Common motion includes turning, opening, closing, folding, sliding, and deforming that are implemented using construction systems such as articulated bars, folded plates, cable structures, membranes, pneumatic systems, smart materials, and hybrid solutions. The integration of motion and structure varies, with most projects relying on mechanical, electrical, and computational systems to synchronize motion with structure, while intelligent and interactive systems enable adaptive performance through sensors or software. Control strategies range from direct control to indirect control as well as internal control that achieve dynamic and flexible buildings capable of environmental and interactive adaptation. In addition, integration into kinetic building systems adopts a responsive or non-responsive approach. The paper specifically examined the strategies of integrating movement and structure in contemporary dynamic pavilion projects. A descriptive-analytical approach was applied to extract the characteristics of ten real kinetic case studies. A comparative analysis of these characteristics revealed that modern kinetic architecture relies on a balanced integration of movement and construction technologies, using diverse integration methods and control systems to achieve flexible, interactive, environmentally responsive buildings capable of dynamically adapting to various variables, thus enhancing innovation and aesthetics, as well as functional performance.

Architectural programming is defined as a systematic method that leads to a statement of the architectural problem, which defines the Goals to produce the most appropriate solution. Goals are defined as a statement that expresses aims and purposes and are considered a means for decision-making. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were identified in 17 goals, of which Goals 11 and 7 were linked to architectural design. By delineating three Aspects for goals: the categories and main values of the goals, and the physical positions for their application, this research seeks to uncover the goals of architectural programming (Independent variables) regarding sus-tainability and their physical positions (Dependent variables). By analyzing texts in which the architect Norman Foster specified aspects of applying sustainability, and classifying its mechanisms, aiming to determine priorities of goals during the programming phase and mechanisms during the application phase. The results demonstrated that Foster focuses mainly on environmental goals, followed by economic and social goals. These goals are applied mainly in external building masses, internal spaces, and techniques used to recycle materials and reduce energy consumption. The conclusions were linked to SDG 11 in terms of its focus on environmental aspects, as well as SDG 7 through its focus on energy issues. The recommendations included the importance of discussing environmental and social goals in the initial stages of architectural programming, and that it is also possible to analyze, measure, and evaluate solutions within the mechanisms of the external mass using traditional methods or modern software during these stages. Furthermore, the importance of targeting economic objectives in new and old designs was highlighted to improve the sustainable performance of existing buildings.