The mechanical performance of concrete is fundamentally governed by the complex interactions between its constituent materials, necessitating precise modeling to ensure structural integrity and sustainability. This study develops a robust data-driven framework to predict two critical performance indicators: Compressive Strength (CS) and Split Tensile Strength (STS). The research utilizes an experimental dataset comprising 30 distinct mix designs characterized by the partial replacement of traditional constituents with industrial by-products and alternative aggregates. Specifically, the influence of Fly Ash (as a cement replacement), Foundry Sand (as a fine aggregate replacement), and Rounded Aggregates (as a coarse aggregate replacement) was evaluated across varying proportions.To model these relationships, the study evaluates the predictive accuracy of a diverse suite of machine learning (ML) algorithms, ranging from linear benchmarks to advanced ensemble techniques. The models investigated include Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Ridge Regression, Support Vector Regression (SVR-RBF), and several tree-based ensembles, namely Random Forest, Extra Trees, Gradient Boosting, XGBoost, and LightGBM. Model reliability was quantified using four key statistical metrics: the coefficient of determination (R^2), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE).The findings demonstrate that ensemble-based models, particularly XGBoost and LightGBM, offer superior predictive capabilities, effectively capturing the non-linear effects of varying Fly Ash, Foundry Sand, and Rounded Aggregate content on the concrete's strength profile. By accurately forecasting CS and STS through a unified computational approach, this study provides a powerful tool for mix design optimization, reducing the reliance on extensive laboratory trials and accelerating the development of sustainable, high-performance concrete.
Materials at nanoscale are known to behave differently and advantageously than at micro and macro levels. As such, nanocomposites exhibit superior properties vis-a-vis conventional micro or macro filler composites in most of the engineering spectrums. Commonly used nanocomposites are Polymer matrix-based nanocomposites (or polymer nanocomposites) that are reinforced with nano fillers. This paper presents a brief review on various important aspects of polymer nanocomposites namely synthesis, properties, applications and limitations
The cement industry is indispensable for global infrastructure development, yet poses severe environmental challenges, accounting for 8–10% of anthropogenic CO₂ emissions, 12–15% of industrial energy use, and extensive natural resource depletion. This review systematically examines the sector’s ecological and health impacts, revealing that 40–50% of emissions stem intrinsically from clinker chemistry and kiln combustion, while co-pollutants (NOₓ, SO₂, PM) exacerbate climate change, biodiversity loss, and respiratory diseases. To address these dual crises, we synthesize emerging sustainability strategies across the concrete lifecycle. Key findings demonstrate that supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) like fly ash or slag can reduce CO₂ by ≤1 kg per kg of cement replaced while enhancing durability through microstructural refinement. Complementary approaches include alternative/recycled aggregates, conserving natural resources, fossil fuel substitution with waste-derived alternatives, and mix optimization, minimizing binder content. Though technoeconomic barriers persist for carbon capture and storage (CCS) and recycled concrete aggregates, regulatory frameworks emphasizing life-cycle assessment can accelerate adoption. Critically, no single solution suffices; achieving sectoral decarbonization requires policy-driven integration of these strategies within a circular economy paradigm.
The aerospace and aeronautical industries have shifted their focus from using traditional materials to using composite materials, mainly due to excellent strength to weight ratio and superior mechanical properties such as high strength. This paper focuses on the key finding of previous research work made by different researches on composite materials in aeronautical industry and draws a conclusion on the added benefits and directing the best composite material which could be used for manufacturing parts in aeronautical industry. The primary focus is on three parts namely aileron, wing spar and wing skin. When it comes to wing spar the observations were made on the amount of load a certain composite material can bear, there was also analysis done on the number of layers and which type of binding material and reinforced fiber is beneficial over other. Observations that were made about the wing skin were based on a newly developed material that was later put through further testing to determine its capabilities. This study suggests that, Graphite and Kevlar 49 Fiber combination is the most superior material due to its cost-effectiveness and fracture toughness. After a thorough comparison of four potential materials Fiber Metal Laminate composed of Glass Fiber Epoxy and 2023 T3 Aluminium, was determined as the most suitable for Aircraft Wing Skin. TR50 Carbon Fiber with R367-2 Epoxy matrix prove to be the most superior material for Wing Spar. Materials and Methods: This study reviewed the use of composite materials in the design of aircraft wing structures, focusing on the aileron, wing spar, and wing skin of a light aircraft. Relevant literature was analyzed to identify optimal composite combinations based on parameters such as tensile strength, stiffness, weight, fatigue resistance, and cost-effectiveness. For the aileron, materials such as Graphite/Kevlar 49 hybrid, HTA 5131 fiber with RTM6 resin, and CF/PEI thermoplastics were evaluated. The wing skin analysis considered Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs), Aluminium-Lithium alloys, and Boron/Epoxy composites, emphasizing wear resistance, fatigue life, and structural integrity. Wing spar materials were assessed based on mechanical performance under load, incorporating experimental data from carbon fiber/epoxy composites (e.g., TR50 carbon fiber with R367-2 epoxy), finite element modeling, and physical testing. Each section of the wing structure was evaluated using data from tensile, compression, fatigue, and impact tests reported in prior research. Comparative tables were developed to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each composite system. The final selection of materials was based on overall performance, mechanical compatibility, and suitability for light aircraft application, with recommendations guided by documented test results and design optimization studies
The study explores the heat transfer rate and pressure drop in a plate heat exchanger using water and MWCNT nanofluid as the working fluids. Flow simulations are performed for a flat plate for reference and plates with cylindrical extrusions of height ranging from 0.5 mm to 3 mm. The working conditions and the boundary conditions like material, ambient pressure & temperature, flow rate, port size, number of flow chambers and channel spacing are kept constant for each configuration. The heat transfer and pressure drop results of the cylindrical extrusion plates are compared to conventionally used chevron type plate as well as flat plate as a reference, which showed improvement in heat transfer rate compared to flat plate and significantly lower pressure drop compared to chevron plate. The effect of the change in extrusion height is verified by using anova test and the heat exchanger is optimized considering equal trade-off between heat transfer rate and pressure drop which comes out to be at almost 0.7 mm extrusion height
Background: With the widespread use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) in the aerospace industry, detecting damage or defects has become crucial in preserving the structural integrity of these systems. Materials and Methods: This research aims to explore the effectiveness of thermography non-destructive evaluation (TNDE) in assessing impact damage in structural components of carbon/thermoplastic composites. Several coupons of carbon/thermoplastic composites impact damaged with a range of impact energy were inspected using active flash thermography. Thermal data obtained from thermography was processed using thermographic signal reconstruction, and the defect depth and size were estimated using a calibration profile and the maximum contrast approach. These results were also compared with results from ultrasonic C-scan. Results: The results from thermography were found to be consistent with those from the C-scan. Furthermore, damage progression in impacted tensile specimens was also evaluated under increasing loads, with areas of damage being measured using a pixel-count method. Conclusion: The depth and area measurements evaluated from TNDE were consistent with the C-scan analysis, which confirms a high degree of agreement.
Traditional earthen materials and techniques offer a promising solution to the housing infrastructure crisis in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. This exploratory study examines the chemical and physico-mechanical properties of soils used in mud buildings and the historic Benin moat in Benin City, Nigeria, with the aim of adapting them for modern, low-cost housing. Four soil samples were analyzed in raw form and with 5-10% cement and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) stabilization. At 14 days, cube strengths with 5% cement exceeded the 1.6 N/mm² requirement of the Nigerian Building Code (2006) for non-loadbearing sandcrete blocks by over 30%, while unconfined compressive strength (UCS) at 28 days was within 5-6% of the code. However, all samples failed the chloride ion penetration test. The samples met ASTM C618-22 oxide requirements (SiO₂ + Al₂O₃ + Fe₂O₃ > 70%, SO₃ < 4%, K₂O < 1.5%) but showed high loss on ignition (LOI > 23%) and very low strength activity indices (<75%) at 28 days, limiting their pozzolanic performance. Despite this, the high kaolinite content (28– 68%) suggests strong potential for producing metakaolin, a valuable supplementary cementitious material (SCM). While stabilized mud bricks - uncalcined - show promise at 5% cement, further chemical or mechanical treatment is needed to enhance durability and long-term performance.
Background: Thermal insulation materials are critical in supporting energy efficiency and safety in hightemperature applications in industries like aerospace, ceramics, metallurgy, and energy storage. Recent interest has grown in naturally occurring minerals like kaolin because they are inexpensive and have the thermal properties to significantly contribute to energy efficiency and safety. This study assesses the thermal insulating performance of kaolin, using it without altering its content, versus aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and graphene oxide. The thermal stability and microstructure of the insulating materials were evaluated in an atmosphere from room temperature to 900°C using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Thermogravimetric Analysis (DTG), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). We found that kaolin was stable thermally for up to 600oC. Kaolin had a 3.6% mass loss up to 600°C, caused by dehydroxylation occurring at 395.6°C, which is lower than the mass loss expressed by aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) at 997.7°C which expressed a mass loss of 4.46%. A moisture loss of 4.1% occurred at 150°C before Al₂O₃ maintained a stable mass loss thereafter until some thermal runaway conditions began to occur. Graphene oxide gave the poorest thermal stability of the three materials with 92.35% mass loss at 587.5°C. Examining the kaolin insulation materials using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the layered, plate-like morphology of kaolin, which supports the energy efficiency and thermal insulation potential of these materials
The structural integrity of bridges is critical to ensuring public safety, economic stability, and uninterrupted transportation networks. Traditional risk assessment approaches, such as visual inspections, load testing, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), have historically provided the foundation for maintenance decisionmaking. However, these methods often face limitations in dynamic operating environments due to subjectivity, static scoring frameworks, and insufficient integration of real-time monitoring data. This study proposes an Enhanced FMEA framework that integrates Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) data—collected through advanced sensing technologies, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and fiber optic systems—into risk assessment processes. Quantitative metrics, statistical methods, and machine learning models are applied to improve predictive accuracy, while fuzzy logic and Bayesian networks address uncertainties in scoring. Comparative analysis between conventional and enhanced FMEA demonstrates superior performance of the integrated approach in terms of predictive reliability, reduction of false positives and negatives, and optimization of maintenance schedules. Case applications in bridges and related infrastructure reveal the scalability and adaptability of the proposed model. Findings underscore the potential of data-driven FMEA to transform infrastructure risk management, enabling proactive maintenance and extending the operational lifespan of critical assets
Metallic adding manufacturing, otherwise referred to as metal 3d printing, has become an operating paradigm in Manufacturing, which will revolutionize the creation of intricate, advanced parts in hundreds of sectors. It is a research paper that is a descriptive and comprehensive synoptic survey of the modern eternity in metal AM. The paper has begun with historical account of how metal AM has developed throughout the rapid prototyping into a successful technology in manufacturing the final parts of its product. The key AM technologies have been elaborated and these are Powder Bed Fusion (PBF), Directed Energy Deposition (DED), and Binder Jetting (BJ). The fundamentals, advantages as well as the limitations of both processes are highly criticized. Next pay attention to the editorial section of this review, which is devoted to the materials science of printable metal alloys and addresses a fairly wide range of materials of titanium alloys, nickel diesel alloys, stainless steel alloys, aluminum alloys, and cobalt-chrome alloys. The Microstructures and mechanical properties resulting as such due to the layer-wise manufacturing strategy are examined, together with the pivotal contribution of postprocessing methods to attain the desired material properties. Its paper is detailed and Thomus outlines the numerous effective and beneficial uses of metal AM across several industrial areas such as aerospace, medical and automobile. Sure and definite advantages of metal AM, including weight loss, part consolidations and the production of personalized medical implants are illustrated using case studies and examples. More so, the paper discusses the which have prevailed, related to the inability to err, limitations and difficulties of metal AM, such as cost constraints, scalability, quality assurance and in standardization. Lastly, at the end of the paper, a perspective to the future regarding the trend and direction of research in the field of metal AM is noted indicating that it is possible to obtain new materials, develop exercise monitoring and control, and introduce the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to expand the advances of this groundbreaking technology
In this research, the mechanical and tensile properties of commercially supplied SS316L stainless steel bars were studied, with comparative results reported in the literature. Specimens machined from cylindrical rods (ϕ 20 mm × 410 mm) were machined using high-speed steel tools and tested in accordance with standards ASTM E8/E8M on a servo-controlled Universal Testing Machine. The results from the tensile test revealed ultimate tensile strengths (UTS) from 601–693 MPa, yield strengths from 591–687 MPa, and an elongation of 9–12%. The range of strength values was found to be consistent with those reported in previous literature (Sharma et al., 2024, Mishra et al., 2024 and Maharaja et al., 2023); however, elongation is significantly lower than the typical range reported in literature between 20% – 40% elongation, a finding that indicates a potential decrease in ductility. It is believed that the reduction in elongation and increase in brittleness is the result of residual stresses, surface defects, or differences in microstructure associated with processing by the supplier. Although the variation from the typical literature elongation reported could be considered a reduction in ductility, anyway exhibited considerable and stable plastic deformation prior to fracture along with a ductile mode of failure. Overall supplied SS316L bars have high strength, and stable plasticity classifies them to be viable for applications where high strength and corrosion resistance is more important than ductility, such as structural components or marine, chemical, or biomedical applications. This study has established a baseline for the mechanical reliability of SS316L bars and will be possible to study the microstructure and post-processing options that may enhance the elongation of the bars to facilitate wider industrial applications
This study focuses on the observation of aerodynamic characteristics of a biconvex airfoil at high Mach number flow or supersonic flow. To understand the influence of supersonic flow on the aerodynamic characteristics of a biconvex airfoil numerical simulation was done using ANSYS Fluent. For the simulation purpose a twodimensional, turbulent, steady flow is considered. The simulation was done with appropriate flow domain and boundary conditions. A C-type flow domain is considered. SST k-ω viscous model is used to predict the flow turbulence. The simulation was done for Mach number 1.7. With the help of existing literature validation was done. Mesh independency test was also done. Flow visualization is done to view the shock waves and expansion waves clearly and properly. The outcomes reveal that with the increase of angle of attack the airfoil’s coefficient of lift increases until stall occurred. The stall occurred at an angle of attack 30° with a drastic loss of lift coefficient. The coefficient of drag also increases with the increase of angle of attack. The lift to drag ratio increases until 6° angle of attack than it falls. The biconvex airfoil shows maximum aerodynamic efficiency at 6° angle of attack
Construction of dry docks in spatially restricted naval plants is deemed unique project endeavours that are characterized by the need to consider scheduled timing to prevent loss of time, hindered work dislocation, and safety concerns in the limited workspace and relying on extensive interdependency in the activities. In this study, the focus is on developing optimization approaches to dry dock construction schedules where phased segmentation of the space solutions is interrelated, floating and semi-submersible platforms are used temporarily to increase working space and crane logistics are planned considering the limited space of the naval corridors. The use of 4D Building Information Modeling (BIM) and location-based scheduling methods in relation to its visualization in real-time and enhanced stakeholder coordination is also included in the study. There is also the discussion of the strategies to reduce schedule risks due to tidal windows and the environmental regulations, which overlooks its compliance, but compliance does not affect the project timelines. Validation in the form of a case based on the comparison of the metrics such as project duration, the idle time of the cranes, and schedule reliability shows that the suggested methods may cut the construction time by up to 16.7 per cent and enhance the schedule compliance by around 15 per cent. The outcomes demonstrate that the integration of both advanced planning practices and digital technologies boasts the efficiency of improving the schedule performance of dry dock constructions in naval and defence-related port structures. The results also provide immediate advice to managers of naval facilities, contractors, and construction planners who need to maximize scheduling performance under extreme spatial limitations, thus enhancing the overall effectiveness and minimizing the disturbance of the activity in sensitive maritime premises.
The sandwich structure is a type of structure widely used in many fields, especially in modern engineering and industry, due to its lightweight yet high stiffness and durability. The study of the mechanical behavior of sandwich structures has attracted the attention of many researchers. However, the heterogeneous and complex characteristics of the core make it difficult and costly to construct simulation models and perform direct simulations. This study proposes the use of an equivalent homogeneous model to replace the 3D sandwich panel structure with a 2D panel with comparable mechanical properties, thereby constructing a simpler finite element model that still accurately reflects the dynamic response. The dynamic response analysis results show that the equivalent model has higher accuracy than the 3D model. This is an important basis for applying the homogeneous model in studying the dynamic response of systems consisting of multiple sandwich panel structures.
Curing the cement-sand mortar or concrete is a mechanism of maintaining the suitable temeperature and relative humidity (RH) so that there is adequate hydration of cement particles, leading to short-term and longterm strength gain and better durability properties. It is the last process, wherin hardened mortar or concrete is kept moist through the application of water, or by any other means, for the sufficient period, especially during initial one to two weeks. On many construction sites, particluarly in deveoping countries, curing is grosssly negelcted in terms of frequency as well as duration. Under-curing leads to a low quality product in terms of strength and durability. The experimental work was carried out to assess the effect of insufficient curing duration on the 28-day parameters of cement-sand mortar, such as denisty, mass loss, compressive strength and water absorption. In all, 60 mortar cubes were cast ; 10 smaples (30 cubes) for the laboratory exposure and 10 samples (30 cubes) for the field exposure. The temperature and RH of indoor and outdoor environnements were measured in the afternoon for the 28 days. Spray curing was carried out twice a day ; curing durations were : no curing, 3-d curing, 7-day curing, 14-day curing and 28-day curing. For both the exposure conditions, 28-day compressive strength exhibited continuous incearing trend as the curing duration was increased ; field cubes showed considerably higher values. For other parameters, no particluar trend was followed ; however, field conditions with higher temperature, within a certain limit, and higher RH were seen to be more conducive and desirable.
This paper explores the implementation of predictive maintenance strategies for energy-intensive industrial equipment, specifically focusing on operations powered by solar and hybrid energy systems in the United States. Through the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms, industrial facilities can transition from reactive or scheduled maintenance to predictive approaches that minimize downtime and optimize energy efficiency. Analysis of implementation across various industrial sectors indicates that predictive maintenance can reduce unplanned downtime by 35-45% and extend equipment lifespan by 20-30% while decreasing maintenance costs by 25-30%. This study presents methodologies, case studies, and a framework for implementing these technologies in the unique context of renewable energy-dependent operations, highlighting both technical challenges and economic benefits specific to the U.S. industrial landscape
Risk management is a critical aspect of residential property development, as it influences investment security, project sustainability, and overall economic viability. In Enugu Metropolis, the real estate sector has witnessed rapid urbanization, yet it remains fraught with uncertainties such as financial volatility, regulatory bottlenecks, land tenure disputes, and construction risks. This study examines the interrelationship between risk management processes and residential property development in Enugu, focusing on how effective risk assessment, mitigation, and control mechanisms can enhance project success. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates empirical data from property developers to evaluate how risk management frameworks impact project timelines, cost efficiency, and market viability. Findings indicate that inadequate risk assessment contributes to project failures, cost overruns, and reduced investor confidence, while structured risk mitigation enhances housing delivery efficiency. The study recommends the adoption of proactive risk management framework, integrating financial hedging strategies, regulatory compliance measures, and adaptive project management techniques to foster sustainable residential property development in Enugu metropolis. These insights contribute to the growing body of literature on urban real estate risk management in developing economies.
Accurate measurement of discharge in open channel is critical for effective water resource management. Conventional method to measure the discharge often require instruments to be in direct contact with the flow, posing a risk of damage due to physical wear and tear as well as under extreme flow conditions. Recent advancements in remote sensing have enabled the development of non-contact measurement techniques using Doppler radar and image analysis. The present study focus on validating a non-contact radar-type discharge measurement sensor installed by Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) at main water distribution channel at Jambhul water treatment plant (WTP), in Ambernath, a suburb of Mumbai. This water canal is the primary source of potable water for Kalyan, Navi Mumbai &Ambernath Municipalities. To validate the accuracy of this sensor, Central Water & Power Research Station (CWPRS) has conducted the flow measurements by moving boat Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) and compared the results with the non-contact type radar sensor. The error in discharge measurements obtained from the radar sensor, when compared with the ADCP measurements by CWPRS, ranged from -0.68% to +0.72%. This deviation in the discharge measurement is of ±1%, which falls well within the acceptable limit, hence acceptable for real time measurements
Increasing population growth increased the size of the building thus increasing the risk of collapse for traditional building. Rapid urbanization gradually increased the necessities of multi storey buildings. Besides considering the scarcity of land, earthquake is one of the dominant constraints while designing the multi storey RCC frame buildings in the earthquake prone zone like Kathmandu, Nepal. Recent earthquake of 2015 has shown the serious problem with the traditional building design. This paper discusses the design of the building using ETABS software and relevant Indian Standard codes used for design of various building elements such as slabs, beams, columns, foundations and staircase and seismic analysis of building and researches the differences and similarities between seismic design code of Nepal and India
Centrifugal fans are critical in cement manufacturing for airflow regulation and dust management but often suffer from vibration-related faults due to harsh operational conditions. Excessive vibration, commonly caused by rotor unbalance and misalignment, can lead to premature component failure. This study investigates a costeffective method of vibration reduction through field-based static balancing. A 9-blade, rigid-mounted centrifugal fan operating at 1475 RPM was monitored using the SKF Quick Collect CMDT391 sensor and Emerson CSI 2140 analyzer. Initial vibration analysis revealed high amplitudes exceeding ISO 10816 limits. Mechanical faults such as impeller misalignment, loose bolts were corrected. The impeller was then divided into 40° segments, and static balancing was performed using trial weights of 5 g, 17 g, and 20 g at the light spot (12 o’clock). Final correction weight of 34.55 g was calculated using the influence coefficient method and welded in place. Initial horizontal vibration at the fan drive end was 17.38 mm/s. After mechanical corrections, it reduced to 12.48 mm/s. Following static balancing, vibration further dropped the vibration to 3.91 mm/s an overall reduction of 82 %. Similar improvements were observed across all measurement points. This demonstrates that systematic vibration diagnosis, basic mechanical correction, and static balancing can significantly reduce vibration levels. In resource-constrained industrial settings, this approach offers a practical alternative to dynamic balancing, ensuring equipment reliability, extended lifespan, and operational efficiency.
