Civil Engineering Journal
Not a member yet
2007 research outputs found
Sort by
Silica Quartz Characteristics from Local Silica Sand on Compressive Strength of Mortar
Many minerals, including quartz sand, granite, and feldspar, contain silica (SiO2), a substance that performs the same function as quartz. Silicate (SiO2), the primary mineral found in silica sand, can be added to concrete mixtures to boost strength. This means that silica sand can be employed as a cementitious component in concrete because it is believed to have pozzolanic and amorphous qualities. This study is part of a series that tries to use silica sand from an area in Indonesia. The purpose of this research was to manufacture and describe quartz silica (QS) from Kolaka silica sand, which was acquired from Southeast Sulawesi province in eastern Indonesia. In order to improve the characteristics of mortar mixtures that use composite Portland cement as a binder, it is advised to combine the X-ray diffraction process with an evaluation of the impact of addition (QS) on their physical and mechanical properties (volume weight and compressive strength). Laboratory experimentation is being conducted here. Water, cement, and silica sand are used to make mortar specimens. Red and white silica sand is the type of silica utilized. The specimens were created with a 50 mm diameter and a 100 mm height. Tests on mortar's compressive strength were performed after 7, 14, and 28 days. The study's findings indicated that the amounts of quartz formed in red and white silica sand were 45.05% and 91.87%, respectively. The volume weight that results is approximately 2.78 gr/cm3. Red silica sand was tested for compressive strength at ages 7, 14, and 28 days, and the findings were 20.73, 23.32, and 24.61 MPa, respectively. White silica sand has compressive strengths of 21.83, 24.67, and 26.52 MPa. We are aware of no prior studies examining the use of crystalline silica from Kolaka silica sand to enhance the mechanical qualities of cement mortar. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-08-010 Full Text: PD
The Effect of Oil Contaminated on Collapse Pattern in Gypseous Soil Using Particle Image Velocimetry and Simulation
Gypseous soil covers approximately 30% of Iraqi lands and is widely used in geotechnical and construction engineering as it is. The demand for residential complexes has increased, so one of the significant challenges in studying gypsum soil due to its unique behavior is understanding its interaction with foundations, such as strip and square footing. This is because there is a lack of experiments that provide total displacement diagrams or failure envelopes, which are well-considered for non-problematic soil. The aim is to address a comprehensive understanding of the micromechanical properties of dry, saturated, and treated gypseous sandy soils and to analyze the interaction of strip base with this type of soil using particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurement and Plaxis 3D simulation. The results showed that high-resolution digital cameras captured soil deformation using PIV, displacement fields, and velocity vectors were generated, which helped identify different sand movement zones. Further, PIV showed punching and general shear failure in uncontaminated and soaked contaminated gypsum soils, respectively. Moreover, the Plaxis results corresponded well with the PIV, as material behavior models are essentially simplified representations of the actual behavior of footing and soil. Understanding soil deformation behavior is crucial for accurate engineering calculations and designs, making these findings valuable for geotechnical and construction engineering applications. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-07-016 Full Text: PD
Evaluating the Performance of Right Turn Lanes at Signalized Intersection Using Traffic Simulation Model
The issue of traffic congestion at signalized intersections is a concern in transportation systems due to the growth of urban areas and increased vehicular transportation. To study the evolution of congestion and evaluate the traffic performance operation of signalized intersections under problematic congested and improved conditions, the microscopic simulation VISSIM software is utilized. The objectives of this paper are to evaluate operational techniques, build a simulation model, and produce a well-calibrated and validated model. The methodology procedure to evaluate the signalized intersection involves the application of a traffic simulation model to observe real-time delays and stopped vehicles. Using the VISSIM software Version 9 to create an intersection model and redesign geometry with an exclusive right turn to enhance the intersection functionality and reduce delay. Our research focused on the Al-Nakhala signalized intersection located in the southern part of Palestine urban street in Baghdad city. This intersection is one of the busiest along the corridor due to significant land-use changes in the study area, including residential, educational, or commercial areas generating daily pressure from additional trips and saturating the absorptive capacity of the intersections. The proposed scenario of an exclusive right–turn could reduce the queue length and vehicle delay at the signalized intersection, resulting in a more efficient traffic operation. As a result of the reduction in vehicle delay, the Level of service (LOS) for the north, west, and east approaches improved from F to D. However, there was only a slight improvement for the south approach, with the LOS changing from E to F. Nonetheless, there was a noticeable reduction in queue length and vehicle delay ranging from 25% to 50%. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-07-010 Full Text: PD
Impact of Rear Slope Variation on Rubble Mound Breakwater Stability Under Seismic Loading
This study aims to enhance the seismic stability of rubble mound breakwaters, crucial maritime structures, by examining how variations in the rear slope angle affect their response to seismic loads. Utilizing the Plaxis 2D software, a finite element method was employed to simulate the behavior of a conventional rubble mound breakwater under different seismic conditions. The analysis considered three different rear slope angles and subjected each to various seismic loads characterized by differing amplitudes and frequencies. Our findings indicate that the rear slope inclination significantly influences the seismic response of the breakwaters, notably affecting the displacements and deformations within the structure. The most optimal angle of inclination was identified, which minimized the seismic-induced deformations, thereby potentially improving the structural integrity and longevity of these maritime defenses. This investigation not only provides valuable insights into the design of more resilient maritime structures but also introduces an approach to optimize breakwater design for better performance under seismic conditions, marking a notable improvement in the field of maritime engineering. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-SP2024-010-08 Full Text: PD
Evaluation of GPM IMERG Product Against Ground Station Rainfall Data in Semi-Arid Region
Benanain River is the longest and largest river on Timor Island, with a length of 132 km and an area of 6,460.12 km². In this region, a significant factor affecting the presence of surface water sources is rainfall. To compensate for the lack or unavailability of automatic Rainfall Data (RD) in the Benanain River Basin (BRB), Global Rainfall Measurement (GPM) data from 1998 to 2018 (20 years) were used. The accuracy of GPM rainfall analysis was obtained when parameter conformity and compatibility with data recorded at Rainfall Station (RS) were maintained. The difficulty of predicting rainfall values, spatially and temporally, in the field led to data gaps and unreliable data for analysis needs. Additionally, RD obtained from observation stations contributed to measuring rainfall because there was insufficient RD for analysis in a few regions. The challenge of accurately predicting rainfall values in the field led to differences in data, rendering it unreliable for analysis. To address this issue, satellite data was required as an alternative method to estimate rainfall. Among a total of 7 RS, only 2 passed rainfall characteristic tests. Following this discussion, Lahurus station showed a correlation coefficient of 0.7046, an RMSE of 25.89, and an NSE of 0.476. In addition, the rainfall characteristic test result for Haliwen Station was 1.66 (R100/R2). The second station that passed was Kaubele Station, signifying a correlation coefficient of 0.7907, RMSE of 25.28, and NSE of 0.604. Additionally, the rainfall characteristic test result for Haliwen Station was 3.04 (R100/R2) and the daily performance of the GPM product in the rainy season with low rainfall (≤ 50 mm) was better compared to extreme rainfall (≥ 100 mm). In this study, corrected GPM daily RD in the range >100 mm was underestimated. This analysis implied that the GPM IMERG Final Run product on daily and monthly rainfall timescales had strong detection capabilities and provided data support for long-time series investigations on Timor Island. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-12-09 Full Text: PD
SWOT Analysis of the Benefits of Hydropower Energy in Four Archipelagos
Increasing energy production through renewable sources is a challenge for islands. This paper investigates the potential of hydropower as a renewable energy source for islands in the Macaronesia region, which includes the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, and Cape Verde. Ecological transition towards renewable energy sources is crucial for these islands due to their current dependence on imported fossil fuels and their remoteness. The methodology used in this paper combines a SWOT analysis with a review of relevant literature. The SWOT analysis evaluates the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats associated with hydropower development on each island. The results show that each island has unique characteristics that influence its hydropower potential. The Azores has existing mini-hydropower plants and opportunities for pumped storage systems due to its rainfall and volcanic features. Madeira also utilizes hydropower, including the world's first underground pumped storage plant (UPHS) in Socorridos. However, limitations exist due to the mountainous terrain and competition for water resources. The Canary Islands showcase the success story of El Hierro Island, which significantly increased renewable energy penetration through a wind farm and pumped storage hydropower system. The topography and lack of rainfall on Cape Verde make the development of hydropower a significant challenge and, as a result, the focus has shifted to wind power. The study concludes that hydropower can play a significant role in the ecological transition of these islands. However, careful planning and consideration of environmental factors are necessary to maximize the benefits and minimize the potential drawbacks. The paper emphasizes the importance of island-specific assessments and exploring opportunities for pumped storage systems. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-07-019 Full Text: PD
Flexural Behavior of RC Continuous Beams Strengthened by Cementitious Composite Materials
Due to their great strain capacity, high tensile strength, and ability to localize cracks, cementitious composite materials are beneficial for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) members. This paper illustrates the application of cementitious composite materials in the form of precast thin layers to strengthen a double-spanned, full-scale RC beam. Both positive and negative zones were strengthened by the precast layer embedded into the concrete cover. The precast layers have a dimension of 20 mm in thickness and 150 mm in width as that of the substrate beam and were applied by two configurations: plain and reinforced layers. A ductile smooth steel sheet with 2 mm in thickness and 100 mm in width was used inside the reinforced precast layer. The composite action of the precast layer has mutual benefits; the embedded steel sheet localizes the cracks, while the surrounding cementitious composite materials protect the steel sheet from environmental impact. The experimental results showed that the strengthening system has a significant contribution to improve the failure mode and load-carrying capacity. The use of a plain precast layer caused a 6% increase in the ultimate load and a 33% enhancement in the moment redistribution ratio compared to the control beam (CB). Applying the strengthening system with reinforced precast layer shifted the failure mode from rupture failure in the precast layer to delamination without slippage in the embedded steel sheet and matrix, leading to the full tensile capacity of the precast layer. Besides, the yielded and ultimate loads increased by 34% and 41%, respectively, and maximum deflection increased by 36%. In addition, the beam's ductility increased by 36%, and the moment redistribution ratio was enhanced by 49% compared to the CB. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-09-05 Full Text: PD
Flexural Behavior of Repaired Reinforced Concrete Beams Due to Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement Using Grouting and FRP Sheet Strengthening
One of the common causes of damage to the concrete structures close to the sea line is corrosion on the steel reinforcement in the concrete, which may cause spalling on the concrete cover. This paper presents the results of the simulation of the corroded reinforced concrete beams, which were repaired using the grouting method and FRP strengthening. The concrete cover of the beam specimens on the tensile side was filled with grouted concrete instead of filled with normal concrete to simulate the repair of concrete spalling. Three types of beam specimens were prepared and tested under a monotonic loading. BG and BPF were the specimens for beams with grouting only and beams with grouting and flexural strengthening using FRP sheets, respectively. Flexural strengthening using FRP sheets was carried out to restore the flexural capacity. As a comparison, control beams were also prepared in the form of normal reinforced concrete (BN). The results showed that the BG beam had a capacity of only about 50% compared to the control beam (BN). However, applying flexural strengthening using FRP sheet as on the type BGF beams showed that it had approximately the same capacity as BN specimens. This indicated that the repair method using grouting on damaged concrete covers and strengthening using FRP sheets was an effective alternative to repairing the corroded reinforced concrete beams. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-01-014 Full Text: PD
Intelligent Forecasting of Flooding Intensity Using Machine Learning
This innovative study addresses critical flood prediction needs in Bor County, South Sudan, utilizing machine learning to develop an intelligent forecasting model. The research integrates diverse analytical techniques, including land use analysis and rainfall calculations, with a decade of weather data to understand complex hydrological dynamics. This research employs machine learning classifiers such as Support Vector Machines, Decision Trees, and Neural Networks. Findings reveal promising results, with the Linear SVM classifier achieving 87.5% prediction accuracy for raw data and 100% accuracy for high-velocity flooding events. The Naive Bayes classifier matched this performance, while Artificial Neural Networks showed a slight advantage in runoff estimation. The study's novelty lies in its holistic approach, combining machine learning with advanced visualization tools and geographic information systems. This creates a dynamic, real-time forecasting system bridging sophisticated analysis and practical flood management strategies. Focusing on model interpretability and multi-scale forecasting enhances its value to policymakers and disaster management authorities. This research significantly advances the application of AI to flood prediction and disaster management in offering future studies on humanitarian challenges. By enhancing early warning capabilities, this system substantially reduces flood-related losses and transforms disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions worldwide, potentially saving lives and mitigating economic impacts. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-10-010 Full Text: PD
Evaluation of an Outdoor Pilot Scale Hybrid Growth Algal-Bacterial System for Wastewater Bioremediation
Synergistic cooperation and interaction between algae and bacteria had made it easy by using one single step only to efficiently eliminate the impurities found in wastewater. High pollution levels triggered by the disposal of untreated wastewater and the harsh social and economic conditions, together with high construction and operation costs of conventional wastewater treatment systems, made it vital to find simple, efficient, cost-effective treatment systems. In this research work, a hybrid microalgae-bacteria pilot outdoor system comprised of a series of Algaewheel® rotating algae contactors (RACs) that receive preliminary treated domestic wastewater at a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 8 hours was monitored for a period of 5 months. An average dissolved oxygen (DO) value of 3.04 ± 1.02 mgL⻹ was obtained in the effluent-treated wastewater. While the average removal efficiencies recorded for the parameters monitored were 90.73% for BOD5, 89.10% for COD, 93.45% for TSS, 77.05% for NH3-N, and 70.40% for TN. All the effluent values for the parameters monitored were below the limits of both the local and international standards. The pilot system was found to be suitable and adaptable for small communities with low discharges of 5000 m³/day or less due to its low operation and maintenance requirements, as its electricity consumption is 80% less compared with the conventional wastewater treatment systems. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-11-09 Full Text: PD