Search results
1 – 10 of 11Latifah Falah Alharbi, Umair Khan, Aurang Zaib and Anuar Ishak
A novel type of heat transfer fluid known as hybrid nanofluids is used to improve the efficiency of heat exchangers. It is observed from literature evidence that hybrid nanofluids…
Abstract
Purpose
A novel type of heat transfer fluid known as hybrid nanofluids is used to improve the efficiency of heat exchangers. It is observed from literature evidence that hybrid nanofluids outperform single nanofluids in terms of thermal performance. This study aims to address the stagnation point flow induced by Williamson hybrid nanofluids across a vertical plate. This fluid is drenched under the influence of mixed convection in a Darcy–Forchheimer porous medium with heat source/sink and entropy generation.
Design/methodology/approach
By applying the proper similarity transformation, the partial differential equations that represent the leading model of the flow problem are reduced to ordinary differential equations. For the boundary value problem of the fourth-order code (bvp4c), a built-in MATLAB finite difference code is used to tackle the flow problem and carry out the dual numerical solutions.
Findings
The shear stress decreases, but the rate of heat transfer increases because of their greater influence on the permeability parameter and Weissenberg number for both solutions. The ability of hybrid nanofluids to strengthen heat transfer with the incorporation of a porous medium is demonstrated in this study.
Practical implications
The findings may be highly beneficial in raising the energy efficiency of thermal systems.
Originality/value
The originality of the research lies in the investigation of the Darcy–Forchheimer stagnation point flow of a Williamson hybrid nanofluid across a vertical plate, considering buoyancy forces, which introduces another layer of complexity to the flow problem. This aspect has not been extensively studied before. The results are verified and offer a very favorable balance with the acknowledged papers.
Details
Keywords
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of entropy generation of some embedded thermophysical properties on heat and mass transfer of pulsatile flow of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of entropy generation of some embedded thermophysical properties on heat and mass transfer of pulsatile flow of non-Newtonian nanofluid flows between two porous parallel plates in the presence of Lorentz force are taken into account in this research.
Design/methodology/approach
The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) were nondimensionalized using suitable nondimensional quantities to transform the PDEs into a system of coupled nonlinear PDEs. The resulting equations are solved using the spectral relaxation method due to the effectiveness and accuracy of the method. The obtained velocity and temperature profiles are used to compute the entropy generation rate and Bejan number. The influence of various flow parameters on the velocity, temperature, entropy generation rate and Bejan number are discussed graphically.
Findings
The results indicate that the energy losses can be minimized in the system by choosing appropriate values for pertinent parameters; when thermal conductivity is increasing, this leads to the depreciation of entropy generation, and while this increment in thermal conductivity appreciates the Bejan number, the Eckert number on entropy generation and Bejan number, the graph shows that each time of increase in Eckert will lead to rising of entropy generation while this increase shows a reduction in Bejan number. To shed more light, these results were further demonstrated graphically. The current research was very well supported by prior literature works.
Originality/value
All results are presented graphically, and the results in this article are anticipated to be helpful in the area of engineering.
Details
Keywords
Karunamunige Sandun Madhuranga Karunamuni, Ekanayake Mudiyanselage Kapila Bandara Ekanayake, Subodha Dharmapriya and Asela Kumudu Kulatunga
The purpose of this study is to develop a novel general mathematical model to find the optimal product mix of commercial graphite products, which has a complex production process…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to develop a novel general mathematical model to find the optimal product mix of commercial graphite products, which has a complex production process with alternative sub-processes in the graphite mining production process.
Design/methodology/approach
The network optimization was adopted to model the complex graphite mining production process through the optimal allocation of raw graphite, byproducts, and saleable products with comparable sub-processes, which has different processing capacities and costs. The model was tested on a selected graphite manufacturing company, and the optimal graphite product mix was determined through the selection of the optimal production process. In addition, sensitivity and scenario analyses were carried out to accommodate uncertainties and to facilitate further managerial decisions.
Findings
The selected graphite mining company mines approximately 400 metric tons of raw graphite per month to produce ten types of graphite products. According to the optimum solution obtained, the company should produce only six graphite products to maximize its total profit. In addition, the study demonstrated how to reveal optimum managerial decisions based on optimum solutions.
Originality/value
This study has made a significant contribution to the graphite manufacturing industry by modeling the complex graphite mining production process with a network optimization technique that has yet to be addressed at this level of detail. The sensitivity and scenario analyses support for further managerial decisions.
Details
Keywords
Timothy Adu Gyamfi, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Wellington Didibhuku Thwala
Construction organisations cannot underestimate the improvement in public–private partnership (PPP) projects’ implementation. At the same time, construction organisations cannot…
Abstract
Purpose
Construction organisations cannot underestimate the improvement in public–private partnership (PPP) projects’ implementation. At the same time, construction organisations cannot overlook the risk arising from engaging in PPP construction projects. Hence, this study aims to establish the influence of risk resource management (RRM) in managing PPP risk in the construction industry in Ghana.
Design/methodology/approach
The researchers adopted qualitative and quantitative research methods to achieve the aim of the study, in which Delphi questions and a close-ended questionnaire were developed. A total of 650 construction specialists, including procurement officers, consultants, project managers, quantity surveyors, site engineers and planning officers were chosen using random and purposive sampling techniques. Recovered data were analysed using descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The CFA maximum likelihood estimation extractor compresses 19 variables into 3 pattern matrices.
Findings
The results of the study revealed three factors that measure RRM in Ghana’s PPP construction industry, including financial resource management which was influenced by communicating the budget to project team members and project partners understanding the budget, and material resource management which was influenced by the provision of materials transportation and provision of delivery programs and labour resource management which was impacted by a commitment to pay social security and taxes and provision of good salaries, to address RRM in PPP construction organisations.
Research limitations/implications
To incessantly improve the PPP risk management (RM) in construction through RRM, there should be a strong liaison between the universities, government agencies and the construction industry, and such collaboration will assist the industry to obtain first-hand information regarding the study findings and how they can be implemented to help the development of RM in the construction industry. This study is limited to Ghana and CFA and further study should explore structural equation model to determine the structure and measurement model of the risk resource variables.
Originality/value
The study may be valuable to industry stakeholders looking for new approaches to improve RM in their construction activities, particularly in PPP projects. Also, to assist reduce PPP risk, construction companies should use RRM in their organisations.
Details
Keywords
Imad Jabbouri, Yassine Benrqya, Harit Satt, Maryem Naili and Kenza Omari
This study examines the impact of firm-specific and macroeconomic factors on the working capital behavior of firms listed in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region.
Abstract
Purpose
This study examines the impact of firm-specific and macroeconomic factors on the working capital behavior of firms listed in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region.
Design/methodology/approach
This study is based on a panel data analysis of 687 firms listed on 11 MENA markets, carried out using the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach.
Findings
The results of this study reveal that profitable firms with high levels of operating cash flows adopt a conservative working capital management. Young firms with rapid growth rates, highly leveraged firms and firms with large investments in fixed assets have higher liquidity needs, which explains their tendency to pursue aggressive working capital strategies. Similarly, large firms exercise their bargaining power over their clients and suppliers to implement an aggressive approach of working capital management. Finally, firms do not have the luxury to decide how working capital should be managed when they are subject to outside macroeconomic forces that affect their stakeholders as well.
Practical implications
The findings of this study can help managers adopt efficient practices and identify optimal working capital levels. Firms in the MENA region maintain excess reserves of cash, which causes under-investment and inefficient allocation of resources in the economy. Improving working capital management practices can allow firms to regain operational efficiency, enhance financial performance and support economic growth.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study investigates this topic in MENA emerging markets and contributes to enriching the existing corporate finance literature in emerging markets.
Details
Keywords
The main objective of this article is to analyze the role of governance quality in influencing the economic growth of 22 selected Sub-Saharan African Countries.
Abstract
Purpose
The main objective of this article is to analyze the role of governance quality in influencing the economic growth of 22 selected Sub-Saharan African Countries.
Design/methodology/approach
The study applied the panel dynamic Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to analyze the data obtained from the World Bank database over the period from 2002 to 2020.
Findings
The overall finding indicated that the composite governance index has a positive significant effect on the economic growth of the countries; where a unit improvement in the aggregate governance index leads to a 3.05% increase in GDP. The disaggregated result has shown that corruption control and government effectiveness have a negative significant effect on growth performance, whereas, the rule of law and regulatory quality showed a positive significant effect. Political stability and voice and accountability have an insignificant effect on economic growth.
Research limitations/implications
Due to data limitations, this study could not address the whole members of Sub Sahara African Countries and could not see the causal relationship.
Practical implications
The study suggested a strong commitment to the implementation of policy and reform measures on all governance factors. This may add to the need to devise participatory corruption control mechanisms; to closely look at the proper implementation of policies and reforms that constitute the government effectiveness factors, and properly implement the rule of law at all levels of the government with a strong commitment to realizing it so that citizens at all levels can have full confidence in and abide by the rules of society.
Originality/value
Even though there are some studies conducted using conventional methods of panel data analysis such as random effect or fixed effects, this empirical study used more advanced panel dynamic generalized moment of methods to examine the role of improvement in governance quality on economic growth.
Details
Keywords
Shiv Shankar Kumar, Kumar Sanjay Sawarni, Subrata Roy and Naresh G
The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of working capital efficiency (WCE) and its components on the composite financial performance of a sample of Indian firms.
Abstract
Purpose
The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of working capital efficiency (WCE) and its components on the composite financial performance of a sample of Indian firms.
Design/methodology/approach
Our sample includes 796 non-financial listed firms from 2015–16 to 2021–22. Sample firms’ profitability, liquidity, solvency, cash flow management, and financial and operational leverage have been used to classify them into companies with high composite financial performance (HCFP) and with low composite financial performance (LCFP) by using K-Means Clustering technique. A composite financial performance score (CFPS) of 1 has been assigned to HCFP and 0 to LCFP. We have used logistic regression models with fixed effect to estimate the effect of cash conversion cycle (CCC) and its components, i.e. inventory days, accounts receivable days and accounts payable days on CFPS in the presence of control variables such as growth, leverage, firm size, and age.
Findings
The study finds that CCC and inventory days are inversely associated with CFPS. This finding shows that the firms’ WCE leads to superior financial performance on a composite basis.
Research limitations/implications
The research findings are based on samples drawn from the population of the listed Indian non-financial companies. Since the operation, financial practices, working capital policies, and management styles of firms vary greatly among nations, the results of this study should be extended to firms in other countries after taking into account the degree of resemblance to the sample firms.
Practical implications
The findings of this study hold significant value for industry practitioners, as they provide guidance in determining the optimal allocation of funds for working capital and devising strategies for effectively managing inventory levels, credit sales, and vendor payments in order to increase the overall value of the company. This study aims to help investors in building their investment portfolios by identifying companies with superior composite financial performance. Investors can enhance the construction of their investment portfolios by strategically selecting companies that demonstrate superior overall performance.
Social implications
The results of our study will help companies improve their WCM strategies to enhance their overall value, and their significance increases manifold during economic downturns. Business firms that perform well by efficiently managing their working capital have a multiplier effect on the economy and society at large in the form of GDP contribution, labor income, taxes to the government, investment in capital assets, and payments to suppliers.
Originality/value
To understand the impact of WCE on firms’ performance, the extant working capital literature focuses on some specific characteristics such as profitability, valuation, solvency, and liquidity. The limitation of employing a single parameter is its inability to present the comprehensive performance evaluation of firms. This study is among the earliest studies that focus on the holistic evaluation of WCE's impact on the composite performance of a company.
Details
Keywords
Audu Ibrahim Ali, Mohd Kameil Abdul Hamid, Mohd Azman Bin Abas, Mohd Farid Muhamad Said, Anthony Chukwunonso Opia, Izhari Izmi Bin Mazali and Zul Hilmi Bin Che Daud
Due to the environmental issues caused by petroleum lubricants used in lubrication, the concept of creating various bio-lubricants requires research globally. Thus, this study…
Abstract
Purpose
Due to the environmental issues caused by petroleum lubricants used in lubrication, the concept of creating various bio-lubricants requires research globally. Thus, this study aims to develop, characterize and test the base ficus carica oil (fig oil) for its ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) content.
Design/methodology/approach
The sample characterization was done using the Fourier transmission infrared spectrum, whereas the morphologies of the EVA, SDBS particles and lubricated surfaces were carried out under scanning electron microscope equipment. To ensure the homogeneity of the solution (base oil and additives), the formulations were subjected to the sonication process. The anti-friction and anti-wear properties of EVA and SDBS particles as lubricant additives were investigated using a ball on a flat high-frequency reciprocating rig tribo-tester.
Findings
According to the findings, the base oil’s anti-friction and anti-wear capabilities can be greatly enhanced by the additions. revealed that the best results were obtained when 1.2% EVA + 2% SDBS was applied for the examination of wear (597.8 µm) and friction coefficient (0.106). Commercial references were used, nevertheless, and the results were excellent. This is because the particles in the contact area during lubrication have strong solubility and quickly penetrate the contact zone. The lubricating mechanisms were explained by a tribological model of the EVA + SDBS and SDBS particles.
Research limitations/implications
The coefficient of friction and wear reduction caused by the use of the additives will certainly enhance system performance and protect the machine components from excessive wear that could cause damage or failure.
Originality/value
The originality and uniqueness of this work are officially affirmed by the authors. The authors’ autonomous and original contribution to the development of sustainable lubrication is represented in this work. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other study has been published or made publicly available that duplicates the precise scope and goals of our research, and this conclusion is based on a thorough literature assessment.
Details
Keywords
This paper evaluates the risk-adjusted returns, selectivity, market timing skills and persistence of the performance of Nigerian pension funds.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper evaluates the risk-adjusted returns, selectivity, market timing skills and persistence of the performance of Nigerian pension funds.
Design/methodology/approach
Annual return data of 23 pension funds that operated in Nigeria between 2018 and 2022 were obtained from the National Pension Commission (PenCom). Risk-adjusted return was appraised using the Treynor ratio, Sharpe ratio and Jensen alpha, while the Treynor–Mazuy and Henriksson–Merton multiple regression models were applied to decompose selective and timing skills. Performance persistence was assessed using the contingency table and rank correlation models.
Findings
Evidence shows that pension funds deliver excess risk-adjusted returns and exhibit selective skills. However, the evidence does not support the presence of timing skills, and there is overwhelming evidence that good (bad) performance does not repeat.
Practical implications
An evaluation of the investment performance of pension funds is crucial for ensuring the financial stability of retirees, maintaining economic stability and making informed investment decisions. It serves the interests of pensioners, pension fund managers, regulators and the broader economy. Our evidence that pension funds generate positive excess returns is a departure from most of the literature on managed funds. We recommend that more Nigerians should leverage the pension fund industry to grow their wealth and prepare for retirement.
Originality/value
This study, to our knowledge, is the first to appraise all the key facets of the investment performance of pension funds in the Nigerian context.
Details
Keywords
Irene Naliaka Cheloti and Manya Mainza Mooya
This paper examines the effects and root causes of client influence within the valuation profession in Kenya.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper examines the effects and root causes of client influence within the valuation profession in Kenya.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted a mixed research design incorporating a survey and experiment of registered and practising valuers in Kenya and interviews of key informants from registered and practising valuers, valuers' clients (commercial banks) and professional bodies.
Findings
The study found that client influence negatively impacts the valuation profession, contributing to inaccurate valuation outcomes, and it exists because of the valuation environment, represented by limited and unreliable information in Kenya and many other developing countries.
Originality/value
This study makes a critical contribution to the empirical literature as it introduces new insights into the impacts and causes of client influence by demonstrating how the valuation environment, characterised by poor information, contributes to client influence in Kenya, which is typical of many other developing countries.
Details