Emirati Journal of Civil Engineering and Applications
Emirati Journal of Civil Engineering and Applications (EJCEA) is a peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research in civil engineering, architecture, construction management, and environmental planning. The journal focuses on innovative strategies and cutting-edge techniques that enhance the quality of the physical environment through sustainable design, engineering solutions, and improved infrastructure development.
Perceptual Intelligence and Passive Energy Saving Strategies in Building Systems: Adaptive Frameworks for Sustainable Performance in Hot Climates
This paper investigates how perceptual awareness of daylight contributes to passive energy-saving strategies and the overall performance of building systems in hot climates. The study aims to identify how human cognition and environmental perception—often neglected in technologically oriented sustainability approaches—affect the energy efficiency of built environments. Methodologically, the research applies a comparative qualitative framework, combining theoretical analysis of environmental perception models with case studies of vernacular architecture in arid regions. Architectural examples from Qajar-era buildings in Kashan, Iran, were analyzed to examine how spatial configuration, material selection, and daylight modulation enabled adaptive thermal comfort and visual quality without mechanical intervention. Results indicate that vernacular passive systems effectively integrated perceptual feedback and user participation, allowing occupants to regulate comfort through intuitive spatial behaviors. In contrast, contemporary mechanically controlled buildings often disrupt this cognitive-environmental connection, leading to increased energy use and reduced user engagement. The findings highlight the need to reintegrate perceptual feedback mechanisms into modern green-building technologies—including smart façades, daylight-responsive dashboards, and adaptive lighting systems. Embedding behavioral and perceptual intelligence into building-management frameworks enhances both energy efficiency and occupant satisfaction. The study concludes that future sustainability depends on systemic cooperation between human perception and adaptive control systems. Integrating passive design principles with perceptually informed technologies provides a pragmatic pathway toward low-carbon, high-performance building systems that cultivate user awareness alongside technological precision.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emirati Journal of Civil Engineering and Applications
From Early Literacy to University Retention A Review Paper on Building a Learning Ecosystem in the UAE for Future Civil Engineering Students
Success in education is a process that can take decades, and success in complex engineering education does not start at the university level. It is far easier to succeed in civil engineering education if there is a solid foundational system that includes early literacy and cognitive development. In the case of the United Arab Emirates, the civil engineering education system requires a comprehensive pedagogical framework to strengthen collaborative literacy practices at the family, school, community, and university levels. This integrated approach will enhance the cognitive persistence of future engineering students and improve their retention. Moreover, aligning educational policies with industry needs and fostering early exposure to problem, solving, critical thinking, and STEM, related activities can further strengthen this ecosystem. Encouraging parental engagement, teacher training, and community, driven initiatives will create a culture that values engineering thinking from an early age. Such a holistic model supports not only academic success but also the development of resilient, innovative, and industry, ready graduates capable of contributing to national development goals.
Fire Safety and Resilience in UAE High-Rise Buildings (Integrating Materials, Codes, and Management Systems under Extreme Climatic Conditions)
In 2025, there were more than 180 fires in tall buildings in the UAE. This study investigates the influence of fire protection systems, regulatory compliance, and emergency readiness on occupant safety. A mixed-methods approach combined a survey of 250 stakeholders with 15 interviews performed across ten towers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. The dependability was quite high (Cronbach's α = 0.93). The regression analysis confirmed substantial effects: emergency preparation (β = 0.44), compliance (β = 0.27), and system functionality (β = 0.23). Mediation studies demonstrated that fire-safety management systems (FSMS) influence compliance (β = 0.84, p < 0.01). Case studies indicated that it is easier to keep and maintain modern towers. But alarms and drills don't operate well with older materials. The results suggest that redundancy, gradual failure, and swift recovery are all critical features of resilience engineering. The results support quarterly drills, risk-based façade inspections, targeted retrofits, and digital integration with civil defense. All of these will help you design a fire policy that works in dry cities.
A field study compares the use of glass with traditional materials in the context of Dubai. A field study compares the use of glass with traditional materials in the context of Dubai
Dubai's climate at 25.16°N and 55.18°E is hot and humid. The city is famous for its modern glass buildings. This paper argues that advanced glass does not worsen the urban heat island effect in Dubai. The methodology involves a high-rise building with a glass façade. Thermal cameras and heat loggers were used to collect data. The data were organized using a mathematical equation and analyzed with a Python program. Results are available at (https://github.com).
Copyright (c) 2025 Emirati Journal of Civil Engineering and Applications
Glass facades, variable and Dubai's climate
Dubai's architectural landscape is defined by the extensive use of glass in its towering skyscrapers. Thus, glass selection is key for thermal performance, solar gain, and indoor comfort (Santamouris et al. 2020). This study examines the various factors that affect glass facade performance, including U-value, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), Shading Coefficient (SC), and Visible Light Transmission (VLT) as mentioned for Dubai climate. It outlines methodologies for optimizing glazing systems suited to Dubai’s extremely warm & humid environment and presents a range of data, standards, and cutting-edge technologies such as multilayer glazing, advanced coatings, and gas fills. The primary aim is to enhance decision-making in design while complying with sustainable building codes.
The thermal efficacy of double, triple, and quadruple glazing under the extreme heat conditions prevalent in Dubai's climate (A field-based investigation).
This study thoroughly investigated the thermal characteristics of three distinct glazing types utilized in Dubai: double glazing (DGU), triple glazing (TGU), and quadruple glazing (QGU). A thermal chamber was constructed employing these three glazing forms, which underwent exposure to the severe summer conditions representative of Dubai. The thermal metrics within the chamber were documented and subsequently compared for analytical purposes. Environmental data loggers were placed inside to monitor air temperature and humidity in three compartments. The objective was to compare thermal performance in (QGU), (TGU), and (DGU) compartments due to U-value differences. The QGU compartment was expected to have a lower temperature, indicating better thermal performance. To establish a benchmark, an independent weather station was used to measure the microclimate at the experimental location, and south orientation was selected for the test. Findings show significant thermal efficiency differences between glazing types, as (QGU) performs exceptionally well, with lower air temperatures compared to (TGU) and (DGU). The findings were provided by the heat index formula and supported by the data that provided better thermal comfort indoors.
Comprehensive Analysis of Combined Pile Raft Foundation using PLAXIS 3D, SAP 2000, and ELPLA
Considering the growing population and limited land availability, towering buildings with several basements have been built to increase floor area ratios while also meeting storage and parking needs. The design of Combined Pile Raft Foundations (CPRF) is crucial in supporting complex structures. Still, traditional techniques frequently ignore the interplay between pile-to-pile and pile-to-raft, compromising the overall performance and reliability of the foundation system. CPRF analysis is carried out using a variety of software packages, including PLAXIS 3D, SAP 2000, ETABS, and the recently announced ELPLA, each having its own set of capabilities, constraints, and user interfaces. To assess their reliability and applicability, this study offers a thorough comparative analysis of CPRF systems utilizing these techniques in five case studies. The findings indicate that PLAXIS 3D, a Finite Element Method (FEM) program, is the most accurate and dependable instrument for comprehensive analysis. In contrast, ELPLA was shown to underestimate loads, potentially leading to unsafe designs, whereas the Winkler Model for Piled Raft (WMPR) produced contradictory results, rendering both only appropriate for exploratory studies. These findings provide useful information for selecting appropriate software for CPRF analysis based on accuracy, dependability, and design safety factors.
Winkler model for combined piled raft (WMPR)
Characterization of Northwest Sinai Clay Based on Field Testing and Hydraulic Properties, A Case Study
This paper presents a comprehensive case study focusing on a project located in northwest Sinai. The area under consideration is renowned for its deep soft clay deposits, posing significant challenges for construction and geotechnical engineering. The study draws attention to improving Northwest Sinai clay through the utilization of prefabricated vertical drains (PVD) associated with preloading, enabling successful construction, and mitigating potential geotechnical risks. In principle, the PVD accelerates the consolidation process of the clay layer. This consolidation process always relies mainly on the hydraulic properties of the soil; hence, a proper estimation of these properties should precede the design of the soil improvement system using PVD and preloading. This research aims to present the characterization of the natural soil layers in terms of soil types, strength, deformation parameters, and hydraulic characteristics obtained from field boreholes and CPTu. Numerical analysis was carried out to assess the estimation and refinement of the soil layers by comparing predictions with settlement measurements for a trial embankment. The findings of the case study are discussed drawing attention to the significance of the proper estimation of the hydraulic properties of the soil layers in the optimization and effectiveness of the design of PVD.
Evaluation of Lime Mortar and Conservation Techniques in Traditional Elements
Architecture and construction methods have been developed by the people who have been living around the word through centuries. Unlike now, in the past the quality of building materials were so different, because of lack of process control and variability in the local sources. Hence each place had different building materials comparing to other places. For many years, lime mortar had been used as the main mortar material in Sharjah traditional masonry. The source of the lime was mainly from coral and lime stones which could be found on the coastal area. This paper aims to prove the compatibility between existing and old lime plus the efficiency of using lime mortar in Sharjah restoration projects. The study has three aims: The first aim is to identify and examine the chemical components of old mortar samples that exist in different heritage buildings in Sharjah by XRF and SEM tests. The second aim is to prepare a new mortar samples with components based on the first aim and examine them by the same tests in the first stages. The last aim is to determine the quality of the new mortar in existing restoration projects in Sharjah city that are exposed to harsh environment factors.
Small scale testing of shear-bond behavior in composite deck slabs with profiled steel sheeting
This study investigates the shear-bond behavior of composite deck slabs incorporating profiled steel sheeting through a series of small-scale push-off and pull-out tests. The experimental program evaluates the influence of mechanical interlock, friction, and embossment geometry on the interface performance between concrete and steel sheeting. Specimens were prepared using galvanized steel profiles and tested under varying vertical loads to simulate realistic shear conditions. The results demonstrate that re-entrant features and embossments significantly enhance shear resistance by preventing horizontal slip and vertical separation. Frictional coefficients were quantified, and failure mechanisms were observed to resemble those in full-scale slab tests. The findings provide critical insights for developing finite element models and optimizing composite slab design, offering a cost-effective alternative to full-scale testing.
Prediction of inelastic seismic performance of RC structures using machine learning algorithms
Incorporation of Machine Learning (ML) techniques in determining dynamic properties for the structural systems that manifest non-linearity in behavior with respect to the geometry attributes under seismic response was the main scope of the current work. The fundamental period of the vibration (T-period) for the moment-resisting frame of reinforced concrete structures was selected as a studied parameter for validating applicability of utilizing ML approach in prediction of uncertainties earthquake engineering. Artificial neural network (ANN) and Vector Machine (SVM) with devised embedded Kernel functions was based ML implementation for prediction of T-period. Radial basis function (RBF), Exponential RBF and Sigmoid were set up as kernel functions for supervising and enhancing accuracy of learning SVM model to the primitive dataset. The findings attempted to generate intuitive with high accuracy relationships for the models with less discrepancies compared to the conventional that based linear regression.
Integrating Socio-Cultural Dimensions into Sustainable Urban Planning: Insights from Traditional Urban Forms in the United Arab Emirates
This paper examines the interplay between social and cultural sustainability in shaping the spatial organization of communities, with a specific focus on traditional urban forms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It explores whether these communities integrate socio-cultural aspects architecturally and spatially, and how such integration can inform contemporary of sustainable development strategies. The paper commences with a review of the spatial morphology of traditional UAE urban forms, highlighting the influence of socio-cultural interactions on the arrangement of social spaces and daily practices. By focusing on the UAE's traditional communities, the paper underscores the importance of integrating social and cultural dimensions into sustainable urban planning. In the second part of the paper socio-cultural entity is illustrated through different models indicating the main pillars and components of sustainability. The third part of the paper includes conclusion and recommendations for the importance of integrating social and cultural dimensions into the UAE sustainable Urban Planning. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable development by offering insights into how socio-cultural sustainability can influence urban open space design, thereby advancing the pursuit of balanced, inclusive, and enduring built environments. The paper closes with a discussion of the insights that were provided and recommendations for future research areas.
Reducing the effect of rising water table on the shallow foundation settlement using geopolymer resin injections
The settlement of shallow foundations on granular soils is a critical factor in their design, and the rise of the water table due to seasonal or hydrological changes can lead to additional settlements, affecting the structural integrity of the asset. This paper investigates the use of expanding geopolymer resin injections as a cost-effective alternative solution to reduce foundation settlement due to a rising water table through numerical modeling. The study utilizes the PLAXIS software to run a series of virtual experiments, assessing the effect of geopolymer resin injections on foundation settlement with different rising water tables. The study found that geopolymer resin injections can reduce the impact of rising water tables on the settlement of shallow foundations and it is most effective when applied within the influence zone of the foundation.
The fire safety framework for the buildings in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE
The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the current fire management system for residential buildings in the Emirate of Sharjah, propose a framework to reduce fire accidents in these buildings, evaluate the current implemented practices, and identify the necessary changes to transform the fire management system from reactive to proactive. The careful identification of the research objective informs the design of the proposed framework. Identify the factors affecting the performance of the Fire Management System for the residential buildings in the Emirate of Sharjah. Evaluate the factors affecting the performance of the Fire Management System. Develop an im-proved framework that enhances the performance of the Fire Management System in the Emirate of Sharjah and validate it through the subject matter experts. The results of the evaluation of the current fire management system in the Emirate of Sharjah revealed that it consists of two main elements: protection and response. Comparing with the best practices that include four elements: prevention, protection, response, and resilience, the two elements added to the proposed improved frameworks to fill the gap.
A critical review on the performance of column improved ground under shear and seismic loading
This paper reviews the performance of conventional stone column improved ground under static shear conditions and seismic loading. The limitations of stone columns in resisting lateral spreading due to shear movements and ground motions are detailed from extensive literature review. Suggestions for improving the shear resistance of improved ground with alternatives to stone column are incorporated. The better performance of pervious concrete column as an alternative to stone column under static shear and seismic loading is also briefed.
Investigating the factors impacting Defect Reporting in the UAE’s Facilities Maintenance Contracts
Purpose – In order to achieve value for money, it is pivotal to assess maintenance projects at the handover and operational stages and to create a good defect report. This study highlights the importance of managing defect report to achieve better management control during the awarding of contracts for the operation and maintenance phase of buildings. The lack of best practices for defect reporting of the management of contractors results in unnecessary costs, leading to a lack of trust in the contractual relationship between parties. Design/methodology/approach – The authors conducted a literature review to uncover the factors that impact defect report management during maintenance outsourcing. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed approaches were used to compare the current and best practices of defect report management and to suggest improvements and ensure better awareness of both clients and service providers. Findings – Study reports importance of involving facilities management in early stages of construction projects to reduce operation and maintenance defects and there are several factors are responsible for the quality of defect reporting: involving facilities management in the early stages of construction, controlling and pre-evaluating the contract type, payment mechanisms, contract duration, acting in mutual trust, negotiating service level agreements during mobilisation, and the adequacy of the mobilisation period. These add value to facilities management contracts and reduce operational and contractual disputes. Originality/value – This study addresses the current method and practices of defect report management, discusses its impacts on the outsourcing of maintenance activities, and turns the client’s focus towards managing the fair mobilisation and demobilisation of service providers.
Experimental Study on Palm Fibers Effectiveness for Sustainable Geotechnical Works
The construction sector in the middle eastern region has been poised towards a rapid growth period in recent years. Owing to an abundance of date palm trees in the area, replacing ordinary concrete with a geopolymer and natural palm fiber-based material can be potentially considered as an eco-friendly construction alternative. This study focused on utilizing fly ash and slag blended GeoCement to produce geopolymer concrete without fibers, palm GeoCrete with palm fibers, and master GeoCrete with synthetic master fibers. The mix design preparations were in accordance with locally produced concrete in Dubai. Additionally, to explore the effectiveness of palm fibers on the resultant blends, their key properties were compared to traditional Portland Cement concrete mixes. The tests were inclusive of fresh and hard concrete tests to assess their performance. The GeoCrete blends achieved acceptable density and air content values. The addition of palm fibers to GeoCrete caused a reduction in porosity and void percentage. The resultant data clearly indicated that GeoCrete, Palm GeoCrete, and Master GeoCrete are feasible for usage in various ground conditions and geotechnical applications.
Machine Learning Approach for Optimization of Concrete Mixes with Supplementary Materials
Durability of concrete has always been an important topic since many concrete failures or signs of failure result from exposure to severe service or environmental conditions. The Gulf region has a harsh metrological environment and is currently witnessing a wide urbanization development. Billions of dollars are being spent on reinforced concrete construction projects and their repair in this region. These projects will not only exert pressure on resources but will also require high-performance materials for long-lasting durability and efficient repair systems. This study investigates the optimization of concrete mix designs using machine learning techniques, specifically focusing on the interplay between Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS), Micro silica content, and their effects on concrete water permeability and cost. A Random Forest Regressor was employed to model the complex relationships between these variables, revealing key insights into how varying proportions of GGBS and Micro silica influence the overall performance and economic feasibility of concrete mixes. The analysis identified an optimal mix containing 61.1% GGBS and 14 kg/m³ micro silica, which achieves a favorable balance between low water permeability (1.37 mm) and cost efficiency (49.5 USD/m³). The insights gained from the model can inform better material selection for mix designs, contributing to more durable and cost-effective concrete structures, reducing the need for costly repairs, and minimizing resource consumption in urban development projects.
Copyright (c) 2024 Emirati Journal of Civil Engineering and Applications
Overview of the Smart City initiatives and challenges in Middle East
Cities already house half of the world's population, a proportion that is expected to rise to 70% by 2050 (Kirimtat et al., 2020). This expansion has caused cities to expand at an alarming rate, affecting the quality and performance of their services as well as their residents' quality of life. Many countries and governments around the world have begun taking action and developing potential strategies to mitigate the negative effects of overpopulation and climate change, as well as to create urban spaces where people can carry out their daily activities with high success rates in a sustainable, creative, and socially responsible environment. Due to the potential for developing innovative solutions for the social and environmental problems that are constantly changing and evolving based on the responses of the public, the concept of smart cities has recently gained popularity in developed nations primarily in Europe and the USA. Problems related to health, traffic, and pollution, scarcity of resources, waste management and poor infrastructure arises and hence development of city falls apart. These problems undermine the growth of city and dismantle it completely. This has led to application and adaptation of technology as a solution of all these issues hence the concept of Smart Cities is developed. Smart Cities bring solutions to sustainable environment. As a result, numerous governments and businesses from the private sector are starting various field test initiatives all around the world (Lai et al., 2020). Moreover, other regions such as Middle East, UAE and Saudi Arabia have also started considering smart city initiative as modern more accessible alternatives for their needs. This paper will use literature reviews to look at the aspects of “smart cities”, their applicability and adoption in Middle East, in addition this paper will discuss the challenges that need to be considered when designing a smart city.
The soundproofing efficiency of gypsum board in masonry cavity wall
Noise pollution is a globally recognized problem impacting public health and quality of life. This study aimed to investigate effective noise-blocking methods using a soundproofing masonry cavity wall filled with gypsum boards. The experiments were conducted using small-scale built rooms, where sound was sourced and received to measure soundproofing efficiency. Various setups were assessed, including different thicknesses of gypsum boards combined with mineral wool and air gaps. The results revealed that adding gypsum boards can improve soundproofing; however, the improvement is marginal unless combined with additional materials. However, the combination of materials within the cavity, such as gypsum boards, mineral wool, and air gaps, provided better soundproofing, particularly in the frequency range of 500-8000 Hz. This integrated approach to filling the cavity proved more effective than using gypsum boards or air alone, offering a solution for noise reduction in masonry structures.
Modeling Severities of Gravel Road Crashes Using Random Parameters
Gravel roads crashes are a roadway safety hazard and such crashes have higher probability of fatalities and serious injuries when compared to paved roads crashes. Previous studies investigated the contributing factors that affect gravel roads crash severities. There were widely range of contributory factors such as road conditions, weather conditions, vehicle type, driver behavior and characteristics, road geometric features, terrain, and environmental conditions that were investigated. However, no previous studies accounted for unobserved heterogeneity in the crash data while modeling gravel roads crash severities. This study employed random-parameter binary logit model also known as mixed logit model to model severity of gravel road crashes in Wyoming. Gravel roads crash data from Wyoming Department of Transportation from 2010 to 2019 were studied and analyzed. Both binary logistic regression model and mixed binary logistic regression model were developed. Mixed logistic binary regression model was found to be better fit the data in terms of goodness of fit statistics. The results showed that crashes involving motorcycles had the higher risk of fatalities and serious injuries. In addition, horizontal curves and male drivers were found to have significant effect on the gravel roads crash severities. Passenger cars were found as a random parameter from the results of mixed binary logistic regression model. In addition, existence of horizontal curve was found to be the most contributing factors increase the probability of having minor or possible injuries in gravel roads accidents. Furthermore, having a snow on the road surface was found to have significant effect on increasing the probability of resulting in property damage only accidents. The results found in this study will be helpful to identify effective countermeasures which will reduce gravel road crash severity. Thus, applied variable speed limits at the horizontal curves location and at snow falling time will enhance the gravel roads safety.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) for Energy Optimization in Green Buildings: A Case Study of a Residential Villa in the UAE
This paper explores the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in evaluating and optimizing energy efficiency in green buildings, focusing on a residential villa in Sharjah, UAE. The study assesses thermal bridges, energy consumption, and the potential energy savings from applying insulation. The villa’s energy performance was modeled using Revit and IES-VE software, and actual energy consumption was measured for comparison. The results show that applying insulation could reduce the villa's energy consumption by up to 17.91 MWh annually, confirming the accuracy of BIM in simulating energy performance. Additionally, this paper discusses how improvements in insulation and thermal management can significantly reduce the energy demands of residential buildings in hot climates.
Keywords: Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Potential of coastal armour units as energy dissipators to enhance the characteristics of hydraulic jumps
Energy dissipating structures are strategically positioned at the base of dam spillways to prevent riverbed erosion and safeguard downstream infrastructures. The objective of this study is to experimentally explore the potential of a novel approach involving the use of coastal structures, known as armour units, as energy dissipators. Two armor unit models were designed using AutoCAD by adopting the geometry of a wave and tetrapod, and subsequently fabricated using a 3D printer with polyactic acid (PLA) material. Using a HM 160 Hydraulic Flume, experiments were performed by simulating discharge over short-crested weir, with a sloped spillway, and generating hydraulic jumps over the armour units that were installed downstream. Inflow conditions of the jumps ranged from a Froude value (Fr1) of 1.7 to 4.0. It was observed that both the wave and tripod structures induced a ski-jump effect before the hydraulic jump, which would facilitate the transportation of sediments and minimize scour risks in practical applications. Additionally, the energy dissipation level through the jumps had improved by four-fold as the height of the ski-jump doubled. Both structures also caused a significant reduction in sequent depth and length of the hydraulic jumps, up to 40% and 50%, respectively, as compared to the classical hydraulic jump formation on a smooth bed, which may lead to a more cost-effective basin design. Overall, the findings of this research highlights the possibility of utilizing a minimal number of units for adequate energy dissipation, offering significant advantages in scenarios where mitigating flood energy in open channels is required.
A Sustainable Model for Engineering Project - a Stakeholder’s Perspective
For earning sustainable SMSWM many environmental, economical, social, institutional, and technical challenges have to be met in the SMSWM pathway. In developing countries like Pakistan, MSWM is a gigantic task because of mismanagement, lack of proper funds, loss of cover and recovery options, bad serial and disposal, lack of information, and an ineffective delivery system. The project is therefore geared at enhancing such a model concerning 5 tenets in the sustainability of the environment that is technical, institutional, monetary, Environmental, and social. By implication, a solid waste management system that will favor a sustainable environment relating to the above factors will be determined from reading literature doing discipline visits, and engaging in stakeholder surveys. Based on five sprint factors of sustainability, the complete work has been done and all the components have been connected and have a certain ratio. When major factors and their sub-factors are identified, specific surveys are conducted for prioritization scoring of such elements, mainly based on the importance of each issue and closer to the inputs of different stakeholders considered. A conceptual model has been developed and refined into a final format for all municipal strong waste control projects to test the model’s sustainability. The rating/weights assigned to each element are purely and utterly to the opinion of the various stakeholders from a given field.
Developing greener concretes from spent bleaching earth and sugarcane bagasse ash
Concrete is by far the most widely utilized construction material due to its excellent mechanical and durability properties. However, the concrete industries are notorious for their anthropogenic activities that contribute to climate change. Cement production alone consumes immense amounts of energy and trails a significant CO2 footprint. One solution that researchers have deemed promising over the last couple of decades is the substitution of cement with agricultural waste products, which subsequently serves to alleviate waste disposal problems. This study investigates the suitability of spent bleaching earth (SBE) and sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) as partial replacement of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in increments of 0, 5, 10 and 15% by mass. Tests were conducted in accordance to British Standards to assess the consistence, compressive strength, split tensile strength and drying shrinkage strain of SBE and SCBA based concretes. Results indicated that while these concretes displayed similar degrees of consistency, the SCBA concretes exhibited superior compressive and tensile strengths. Optimum SCBA dosages were revealed to be about 5-10%, yielding a 7-12% and 3-8% increase in compressive and tensile strengths, respectively, as compared to OPC concrete. Drying shrinkage behavior was also improved in the SCBA concretes. Further, comparisons of the mechanical and durability performances of the concretes with British and American codes suggest that up to 10% replacement of cement with SCBA may be a viable approach to developing sustainable materials for the concrete industry.
Investigating the Compressive Response of Hand-Laminated GFRP Pipes in the Hoop Direction through Experiment and FEM Modeling
Composite materials represent a relatively recent development with compelling attributes such as lightweight and high durability, making them increasingly appealing for diverse engineering applications, notably in aerospace. This study investigates the compressive performance of a hand-layup manufactured composite glass fiber reinforced polymer pipe. Experimental compression tests were conducted following ASTM guidelines using a universal testing machine (UTM). Mechanical responses under axial compression were evaluated for hoop orientation, with analysis of fracture surfaces revealing various damage mechanisms including debonding, whitening, matrix cracking, delamination, and fiber splitting. The study reports a maximum compressive strength of 6.88 MPa and a Young's modulus of 382.24 MPa in the hoop direction, with the maximum load sustained being 6.797 kN. Furthermore, the model was validated using the Finite Element Analysis in Abaqus, which showed good alignment between the experimental findings and the FEM modeling results. This work provides insights that are potentially useful for applications in the aerospace sector.
A Comparative Analysis of Thin-Walled Sections Using Finite Element Modelling
Thin-walled channel sections, such as Folded Sections, C-Sections, and Z-Sections, are extensively used in structural applications, particularly in civil engineering. This research investigates the behavior of cold-formed steel sections, including folded flanges, C-sections, and Z-sections, with respect to their ultimate load-carrying capacities. A numerical model will be developed using the finite element method in Abaqus software to simulate the behavior of these sections under axial compressive loading, covering both the elastic and plastic ranges. Comparative analysis of the folded sections, C-sections, and Z-sections is conducted. Z-section stands out with its significantly higher ultimate load capacity compared to the folded and C-sections. This can be attributed to its Z-shaped design. The objective of this study is to establish more robust design guidelines for the safe and efficient use of these sections in building structures. The findings will contribute to enhancing the reliability and economy of design practices for these structural elements.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in the Sediments and Soils in the City of Dubai based on the Geoaccumulation Index
This research assesses heavy metal contamination in surface sediments and soils in Dubai using the geoaccumulation index model. Soil and sediment samples were collected from 19 sites across Dubai, with sampling conducted twice to detect variations in heavy metal concentrations. Eight heavy metals—Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn)—were analyzed for their environmental impact and abundance.Results showed that the soil was highly polluted with Silver (Ag). Nickel (Ni) concentrations ranged from Unpolluted to Moderately Polluted. Chromium (Cr) levels indicated Unpolluted to Moderately Polluted status, except in Al-Marmoum Heritage Village, Jumeirah Lakes, Al-Mamzar Open Beach, and Remram, which showed higher contamination. Cadmium (Cd) levels varied, with some sites Unpolluted and others Unpolluted to Moderately Polluted. Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn) levels indicated unpolluted status.Area-wise, Jumeirah Lakes, excluding silver contamination, was generally Unpolluted. Dubai Creek exhibited the highest geoaccumulation index for several metals, including Silver, Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel, and Zinc.
Engaged Scholorship & the making of the Acedemic Industrialist
This discussion paper explores the long-standing debate on the researcher-practitioner relationship and the value added from engaged research and scholarship. The rise in more engaged and action-based scholarship has become significant with respect to the contribution to research. In this paper we address some of the fundamental concepts in engaged scholarship, experiential learning and the role of hard science and practice coming together to deliver value. To illustrate, we give an example of working on this in the context of risk management thinking with managers and how this is approached by both the academic and the practitioner or manager. The role of field-based research where a direct interaction with data collection from industry through all methods must be better developed to help facilitate the speed needed yet maintain the right level of rigor and accuracy needed. The paper concludes with the conclusion that a great deal that can be gained from the effective symbiotic relationship between researchers who bring academic vigour and scientific authenticity to research and the practitioners who bring both practicality and application to research
Visualizing the Impacts of Dewatering on Ground Water and Soil Quality Using GIS
There is mounting evidence that the increasing size of the construction industry may lead to significant changes in the global environment. Dewatering, as a crucial component of the construction industry, may have detrimental consequences on the soil and groundwater quality. Dewatering is a technique used to lower the high-water table during construction. The possible effects of dewatering on the soil and ground water quality were visualized and investigated using GIS technology. The analyses were conducted at small temporal and spatial scales. The aim is to give insights in the magnitude and the direction of the dewatering’s impacts. Furthermore, the methodology and the results described in this study will contribute to the UAE national analysis of the impacts of dewatering on the water sector. However, field measurements of water table, groundwater qualities, soil salinity levels, geographic locations and elevations were used to verify the spatial analysis conducted. The temporal and spatial variations of the groundwater/soil quality, in the study area, were determined and visualized. Then the impacts of the dewatering were quantified and evaluated. It is found that dewatering has quantifiable impacts on the soil and ground water quality. The results show drastic but reversible changes in water salinity and light but persistent/ irreversible changes in soil salinity. The magnitude of the increase in the water salinity is in the range of 0.4 g/L - 1.8 g/L. While the magnitude of the change in the soil salinity is in the range of 0.02 – 0.04 g/L.