International Journal of Integrated Engineering
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Integrating Forensic Analysis and Sustainable Design for Slope Stabilization: A Case Study Using Waste Tire-Filled Gabion Structure (WTFGS)
Get PDFThis study presents a forensic investigation and geotechnical modelling of a landslide disaster and associated slope failure that adversely affected nearby infrastructure. The investigation involved geological mapping and geotechnical investigation through borehole drilling, followed by laboratory testing to characterise the physical index and engineering properties of the soil. Slope stability analyses were performed using SLOPE/W to show the stability analysis (Factor of Safety - FOS) for both the current failed slope condition and a proposed remediation design that incorporates sustainable materials. The proposed solution utilised a waste tire-filled gabion structure (WTFGS) as a sustainable slope retaining technique. Results indicated that the FOS for the existing slope was 0.979, classifying it as unstable. However, with the implementation design of WTFGS, the FOS improved to 1.580, indicating a stable slope in accordance with standard guidelines. These findings demonstrate that using waste materials to replace conventional materials is a practical remediation technique and a sustainable solution for slope stabilisation in new construction and slope repair applications. The integrated methodology strengthens failure assessment and supports the development of effective, sustainable slope stabilization solutions
Enhanced Performance of Millimetre-Wave Dual-Polarized Antennas Through Reduced Element Spacing
No full textThe increasing demand for higher data rates and better signal quality in 5G wireless networks has driven the advancement of dual-polarized antennas, which offer improved channel capacity and enhanced MIMO capabilities. Nevertheless, challenges such as achieving sufficient isolation, compact form factors, and effective beamforming remain, especially in millimeter-wave (mmWave) applications. This study introduces an enhanced single-layer, dual-polarized patch antenna with slant ±45° polarization, operating at 28 GHz. Designed to optimize performance while maintaining a compact structure, the antenna significantly reduces inter-element spacing — from approximately 57 mm to 15 mm. It is built on a Rogers RT5880 substrate and incorporates a T-power divider for efficient signal distribution. Both simulation and experimental results confirm improvements in reflection coefficient, radiation patterns, and gain compared to earlier designs. The antenna achieves a reflection coefficient of less than -10 dB, indicating strong performance, with measured gains ranging from 3.7 to 7.8 dBi. The revised radiation patterns display reduced sidelobe levels and a more directional main beam in the co-elevation azimuth plane, highlighting the effectiveness of the reduced spacing. These enhancements make the proposed design well-suited for 5G mmWave applications, particularly for beam-steering systems. Future developments can build on this work to further optimize performance in high-frequency wireless networks
Effect of Hydrophobic Silica-Based Admixture on the Physical Performance and Durability of Waterproof Geopolymer Composite
Get PDFSustainability construction technology initiatives have a great concern for green construction materials that offer high durability properties comparable to conventional alternatives. Geopolymer concrete, synthesised from industrial by-product-based precursors such as fly ash and slag, presents an eco-friendly alternative to Portland cement, but requires improved water resistance for widespread adoption and high durability binders. This study systematically evaluates polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as a hydrophobic modifier (0-5% by binder weight) to enhance the performance of geopolymers. Comprehensive testing revealed PDMS\u27s dual mechanism: surface modification (an increase in contact angle from 40.1° to 97.3° at a 4% dosage) and pore structure refinement (a 76% reduction in water absorption at a 5% dosage). Mercury intrusion porosimetry showed PDMS effectively seals micropores while creating strategically isolated macropores that maintain low permeability. The 5% dosage emerged as optimal, delivering balanced surface hydrophobicity (93.9° contact angle) with superior matrix densification (0.93% water absorption). These findings establish PDMS-modified geopolymer as a viable, durable construction material for moisture-prone environments, addressing both sustainability and performance requirements in modern and resilient infrastructure
Electrochemical Optimizing of SSC-SDCC Cathodes for LT-SOFCs: Synergistic Control of Composition, Phase Structure, Morphology, and Thermal Properties
Get PDFThe growing global demand for alternative energy sources has driven the development of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), which offer efficient and eco-friendly energy conversion. However, conventional SOFCs high operating temperatures accelerate material degradation, necessitating the exploration of low-temperature SOFC (LT-SOFC) materials. This study investigates samarium strontium cobalt-samarium doped ceria carbonate (SSC-SDCC) composite cathodes with varying weight ratios (50:50, 60:40, and 70:30, denoted as SSCB55, SSCB64, and SSCB73) mixed via high-energy ball milling (HEBM). The powders were calcined at 750°C, pelletised using the uniaxial pressing method, and sintered at 600°C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of the SrCO₃ secondary phase, despite of this phase formation, the cathode exhibited enhanced performance with reduce ASR values. The energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping demonstrated uniform elemental distribution across all samples, ensuring compositional homogeneity. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed microstructural evolution, including increased agglomeration after calcination process. Porosity measurement (31-44%) aligned with optimal cathode material requirements, facilitating efficient gas diffusion and electrochemical reactions. Thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) analysis indicated that only SSCB55 exhibited acceptable compatibility with the SDCC electrolyte, whereas SSCB64 and SSCB73 exceeded the recommended thresholds, risking mechanical failure during thermal cycling. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) further revealed that the SSCB55 cathode achieved low area specific resistance (ASR) by 5.06 Wcm2 at 600°C, indicating superior oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics and highlighting its potential for LT-SOFC applications. These findings suggest that optimised SSC-SDCC composites, particularly SSCB55, are promising candidates for high-performance LT-SOFC cathodes.
 
Energy Absorption and Failure Mechanism of Aluminium Bi-tubular Cones under Axial Compression
Get PDFThin-walled tubes of circular and noncircular cross-sections are increasingly used as energy absorbers in many applications. The most important target of the designers in automotive manufacturing is to develop a structural component that can sustain high loads and absorb high energy to provide more safety to the passengers and the driver of the vehicle. In addition, to protect vehicle components from catastrophic failure during low or high velocity crush condition. Crashworthiness performance of energy absorber component under axial loading depends on the fracture mechanism by which the component collapse. Fracture mechanism of thin-walled metal and composite tubes influenced by the cross-section, design parameters and material used. In the current research, finite element analysis on aluminium bi-tubular cone components under axial loading were conducted. Combined cone-tube consists of 56 mm tube diameter and 65.63 mm cone top diameter with cone semi-apical angles of 5o, 10o, 15o, 20o and 25o were analysed under axial loading. Effect of cone semi-vertex angle (α) for cone-cone, cone-tube and tube-tube arrangements on the load-displacement characteristics and the absorbed energy were investigated. Crashworthiness analysis was conducted on the fractured bi-tubular component. Results presented that the crushing load and energy absorption of the bi-tubular cone-tube and cone-cone enhanced with increasing cone angle from 5o to 15o. Additional increase in the cone angle up to 25o, decreased the energy absorption, and the bi-tubular components sustained lower loads. Initial crush load of the cone-tube bi-tubular component increased from 20.04 kN to 30.50 kN with increasing cone angle from 5o to 15o. The tested bi-tubes fractured by progressive folding accompanied with buckling that resulted in concertina plastic failure mode followed by non-symmetric diamond failure mode
Optimizing Control Strategies for Hand Exoskeleton: A Comparative Study of Controllers
Get PDFThis study presents a comparative analysis of three controllers (PI, Fuzzy Logic Control, and Sliding Mode Control) for hand exoskeletons designed for stroke patients. The research evaluates the controllers\u27 performance in manipulating the exoskeleton to specific target angles, with results indicating competitive performance across various data metrics. The methodology involves the design and simulation of each controller using Matlab Simulink software, with the hand exoskeleton featuring a unique four-finger rigid design and an Actuonix linear motor. Notably, the study identifies Sliding Mode Control as the most effective controller, demonstrating superior stability, accuracy, minimal overshoot, zero steady-state error, and the fastest settling time. This research significantly advances hand exoskeleton technology for individuals with hand impairments. The study offers valuable insights for the development and implementation of control systems in hand exoskeleton technology, with implications for assistive applications
Energy Profile and Building Energy Index (BEI) for Malaysian Public University: A Case Study of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)
Get PDFEnergy consumption is steadily increasing in emerging nations like Malaysia, driven by economic growth and the expansion of both commercial and residential sectors. The government has implemented various measures to ensure optimal and efficient building energy use. One such measure is the MS1525 standard, which evaluates a building’s energy efficiency as a benchmark for compliance with existing regulations. This study examines the Building Energy Index (BEI) of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) at the Parit Raja, Batu Pahat campus to determine whether the buildings meet standard BEI requirements. The study\u27s objectives were achieved by collecting data on monthly energy consumption and selected buildings\u27 gross floor area, and then calculating the BEI to ensure accurate results. A preliminary audit involved a quick assessment of building and utility operations, site observations, and facility tours. Additionally, general audits provided more detailed insights into building operations, helping to identify the primary sources of energy consumption. According to the findings, the BEI for UTHM buildings ranges from 57 to 65 kWh/m²/year—significantly lower than the recommended BEI benchmark of 200 kWh/m²/year, as specified by Malaysian Standards and the guidelines for Malaysian green government buildings. However, fluctuations in the university\u27s energy consumption, influenced by factors such as semester breaks and the presence of multipurpose buildings, suggest the need for an adjusted method of BEI computation. A refined approach would provide more accurate BEI benchmarks tailored to public universities
Analysis Performance of Coconut Coir as Natural Geotextiles
Get PDFAgricultural waste offers significant potential for natural geotextiles due to its eco-friendliness and mechanical properties. Coconut coir, among fibres like jute, sisal, and kenaf, stands out for its suitability in geotechnical applications. This research evaluates the effectiveness of coir mats in improving clayey soil properties, focusing on chemical composition, physical characteristics, and geotechnical performance. Laboratory experiments, including specific gravity, Atterberg limits, unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and direct shear tests, were conducted to analyse the treated soil. The clay soil, classified as organic (A-7-5) based on AASHTO standards, had a specific gravity of 2.09 and a plasticity index of 30. Results showed significant improvements in mechanical properties with coir reinforcement. Single-layer coir mats enhanced the UCS by 15%, while double-layer mats achieved a 20% increase. Direct shear tests revealed higher cohesion and internal friction angle, indicating better shear strength and stability. These findings confirm coconut coir as an effective, sustainable geotextile for enhancing clay soil stability, strength, and shear resistance. This study highlights its potential in eco-friendly geotechnical applications, supporting sustainable construction and promoting the use of biodegradable materials in soil stabilisation projects
IoT Based Water Quality Monitoring System for Swimming Pool
Get PDFA swimming pool is a recreational facility where people relax and refresh themselves. However, maintaining good water quality is essential, as poor water conditions can negatively impact users\u27 health. In public swimming pools, operators typically rely on manual devices to measure pH and chlorine levels, making it challenging to maintain consistent water quality. This can lead to potential skin irritation and other health issues. Therefore, an automated water quality monitoring system has been developed to continuously track and maintain pool water quality by measuring pH, chlorine concentration, turbidity, and temperature to ensure a safe and comfortable swimming environment. The system was tested on several swimming pools with varying water conditions, evaluating key parameters such as pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), turbidity, and temperature. The analysis of results demonstrates that the developed system effectively and accurately measures these parameters, providing reliable data for maintaining optimal water quality
Pore Characterization and Mechanical Properties of Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces Porous Structures by Fused Deposition Modelling
Get PDFThis paper focuses on the design and characterization of porous structures inspired by Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMS) in the context of additive manufacturing. Uniform porous structures with porosities of 40% (P40), 50% (P50), and 60% (P60) are designed, along with a gradient porous structure with an average porosity of 50% (ZP50). Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) serves as the fabrication method for these TPMS-based structures. The printing accuracy, mechanical properties and energy absorption characteristics of the TPMS porous structures with different porosity are investigated. A comprehensive evaluation reveals that the actual porosity deviates from the designed values by less than 4%, affirming the reliability of the design approach. Notably, an increase in porosity correlates with an increase in ultimate yield strength, reaching a peak value of 8.644 MPa for P40. Additionally, ZP50 shows a 15.54% higher yield strength than P50 under similar porosity conditions. This advantage persists up to a strain level of 26%, where ZP50 also outperforms P50 in energy absorption characteristics. The findings enrich the understanding of the mechanical behaviour of small-scale curved porous structures created through additive manufacturing. The research offers valuable insights for engineering applications that require optimized porous structures, thereby contributing to advancements in the additive manufacturing field