Search results

1 – 10 of 638
Open Access
Article
Publication date: 8 June 2023

Pankaj B. Pathare, Mai AL-Dairi and Adil Al Mahdouri

This study aims to determine the influence of bruise damage generated from the impact test on the physical, chemical and nutritional responses of tomato fruit.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to determine the influence of bruise damage generated from the impact test on the physical, chemical and nutritional responses of tomato fruit.

Design/methodology/approach

The impact loading was applied from different heights. The impact energies for 20, 40 and 60 cm drop heights were 129.59, 259.18 and 388.77 mJ, respectively. The injured samples were kept for 48 hours at low (10 °C) and ambient (22 °C) storage temperatures. Weight loss, firmness, color, total soluble solids (TSS), lycopene and carotenoids were measured before the impact test (day 0) and after 48 hours of the impact and storage.

Findings

The drop height of 60 cm and storage at 22 °C showed the highest values in the bruised area. The impact from the 60 cm drop height significantly reduced weight, lightness, yellowness, hue, firmness, lycopene and carotenoids, particularly at 22 °C storage condition. Redness (a*) and color index (CI) showed a remarkable increase (p < 0.05) at 22 °C on tomatoes affected from the highest impact level (388.77 mJ) after 48 hours of storage. No pronounced significance was seen between TSS and drop heights. This study has confirmed that tomato bruising for a short-term storage period induces physiological changes at different storage temperature conditions.

Originality/value

The study can confirm the crucial role of inappropriate handling in increasing fresh produce loss within short-term storage. Also, this research can be considered as a guideline for transporters, handlers, processors, distributors and horticulture researchers in the fresh produce supply chain during postharvest operations.

Details

Arab Gulf Journal of Scientific Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-9899

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Zeynep Fatma Niğdeli, Funda Gençer and İzzet Yüksek

The purpose of the study is to provide a dataset about geometrical constructions of early Ottoman tombs for conservation studies. Thus, a proposal for the restitution phase of the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to provide a dataset about geometrical constructions of early Ottoman tombs for conservation studies. Thus, a proposal for the restitution phase of the damaged tombs aims to develop.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is composed of four phases. First, the representative plan and section drawings of early Ottoman Tombs were redrawn; second, a geometrical analysis was made, a proposal table was prepared for the restitution of the damaged tombs; and last, this table was applied to tomb examples and restitution drawings are verified with the original situation of the tombs.

Findings

Early Ottoman tombs may be interpreted through geometric shapes, including the square, circle, triangle, octagon, arsin grid and quadrature systems. The arsin grid system provides information about the position of the domes and the height of the drums and windows. Quadrature establishes the highest point of domes and entrances. The proposal table, developed from the obtained results, facilitated the identification of the original elements, including the dome, drum, window and portal. This information is crucial for conducting further studies on restitution.

Originality/value

The abundance and dispersed nature of tomb structures compared to other architectural designs pose challenges in their scholarly examination. The early Ottoman tombs, which experienced an increase in numbers following the Conquest of Istanbul, serve as the initial expressions and embodiments of novel architectural endeavors. Thus, the determination of design ideas of the early Ottoman tombs sheds light on Ottoman architectural practice, which has remained largely unknown and guided the conservation studies of the tombs that have lost their integrity and originality.

Details

Open House International, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 April 2024

Jun Zhao, Hao Zhang, Junwei Liu, Yanfen Gong, Songqiang Wan, Long Liu, Jiacheng Li, Ziyi Song, Shiyao Zhang and Qingrui Li

Based on the weak seismic performance and low ductility of coupled shear walls, engineered cementitious composites (ECC) is utilized to strengthen it to solve the deformation…

Abstract

Purpose

Based on the weak seismic performance and low ductility of coupled shear walls, engineered cementitious composites (ECC) is utilized to strengthen it to solve the deformation problem in tall buildings more effectively and study its mechanical properties more deeply.

Design/methodology/approach

The properties of reinforced concrete coupled shear wall (RCCSW) and reinforced ECC coupled shear wall (RECSW) have been studied by numerical simulation, which is in good agreement with the experimental results. The reliability of the finite element model is verified. On this basis, a detailed parameter study is carried out, including the strength and reinforcement ratio of longitudinal rebar, the placement height of ECC in the wall limb and the position of ECC connecting beams. The study indexes include failure mode and the skeleton curve.

Findings

The results suggest that the bearing capacity of RECSW is significantly affected by the ratio of longitudinal rebar. When the ratio of longitudinal rebar increases from 0.47% to 3.35%, the bearing capacity of RECSW increases from 250 kN to 303 kN, an increase of 21%. The strength of longitudinal rebar has little influence on the bearing capacity of RECSW. When the strength of the longitudinal rebar increases, the bearing capacity of RECSW increases little. The failure mode of RECSW can be improved by lowering the casting height of the ECC beam in a certain range.

Originality/value

In this paper, ECC is used to strengthen the coupled shear wall, and the accuracy of the finite element model is verified from the failure mode and skeleton curve. On this basis, the casting height of the ECC casting wall limb, the strength and reinforcement ratio of longitudinal rebar and the position of the ECC beam are studied in detail.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 January 2024

Mehmet Küçük

Fabrics, which are one of the raw materials of the clothing industry, constitute approximately 40–45% of the total cost of an apparel product. Due to the labor-intensive nature of…

Abstract

Purpose

Fabrics, which are one of the raw materials of the clothing industry, constitute approximately 40–45% of the total cost of an apparel product. Due to the labor-intensive nature of this industry and failure to apply scientific methods along with the manufacturing processes, the wastes in the raw materials, including fabrics, become higher. Besides, quality deficiencies are encountered due to the same reasons. This study aims to determine the optimum total fabric layer height based on the fabric type during the cutting process with a straight knife cutting machine, which provided a decrease in the cutting errors.

Design/methodology/approach

Frequently used fabric types in an enterprise operating in organic cotton knitwear were listed. During the cutting tests, the straight knife cutting machine was used as the cutting device. The weight and thickness values of the fabrics were obtained to provide a comparison basis. Two different algorithms were created to evaluate the defective pieces according to fabric type, cutting height and error placement. Cutting resistances of these fabrics were also determined to evaluate the defect reasons. In the end, optimum total fabric layer count and total cutting height suggestions were proposed for each fabric type for a minimum cutting error.

Findings

At the end of this study, the error-free layers were identified per fabric type. At the same time, the optimum cutting height was suggested for each fabric basis. For 40/1 single jersey fabrics, the cutting height should be between 2.10 cm and 10.40 cm; for 30/1 single jersey fabrics, between 1.65 cm and 5.70 cm; for 20/1 single jersey fabrics, between 1.83 cm and 6.70 cm; for two-thread fleece fabrics, between 2.13 cm and 4.70 cm; and for three-thread fleece fabrics, between 0 cm and 4.90 cm.

Research limitations/implications

Within the scope of the study, since the products made of knitted fabric were produced more frequently and in large quantities, the study was carried out with 15 different types of knitted fabrics at 10 different layers. The same methods should be applied for woven, denim and nonwoven fabric types, which would shed light on the following studies.

Originality/value

Due to scarce research carried out on the cutting procedure of the clothing industry in regards to sustainability, this study aims to contribute to this area. The main difference between this study and the studies that mostly make mathematical predictions about the cutting procedure is that it is practice-oriented.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 April 2024

Ali M. AlQahtani

Jubail Industrial City is one of the largest industrial centers in the Middle East, offering potential opportunities for renewable energy generation. This research paper presents…

Abstract

Purpose

Jubail Industrial City is one of the largest industrial centers in the Middle East, offering potential opportunities for renewable energy generation. This research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the wind resources in Jubail Industrial City and proposes the design of a smart grid-connected wind farm for this strategic location.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used wind data collected at three different heights above ground level – 10, 50 and 90 m – over four years from 2017 to 2020. Key parameters, such as average wind speeds (WS), predominant wind direction, Weibull shape, scale parameters and wind power density (WPD), were analyzed. The study used Windographer, an exclusive software program designed to evaluate wind resources.

Findings

The average WS at the respective heights were 3.07, 4.29 and 4.58 m/s. The predominant wind direction was from the north-west. The Weibull shape parameter (k) at the three heights was 1.77, 2.15 and 2.01, while the scale parameter (c) was 3.36, 4.88 and 5.33 m/s. The WPD values at different heights were 17.9, 48.8 and 59.3 W/m2, respectively.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that Jubail Industrial City possesses favorable wind resources for wind energy generation. The proposed smart grid-connected wind farm design demonstrates the feasibility of harnessing wind power in the region, contributing to sustainable energy production and economic benefits.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 March 2023

Ghassan Almasabha, Ali Shehadeh, Odey Alshboul and Omar Al Hattamleh

Buried pipelines under various soil embankment heights are cost-effective alternatives to transporting liquid products. This paper aims to assist pipeline architects and…

Abstract

Purpose

Buried pipelines under various soil embankment heights are cost-effective alternatives to transporting liquid products. This paper aims to assist pipeline architects and professionals in selecting the most cost-effective buried reinforced concrete pipelines under deep embankment soil with minor structural reinforcement while meeting shear stress requirements, safety and reliability constraints.

Design/methodology/approach

It is unfeasible to experimentally assess pipeline efficiency with high soil fill depth. Thus, to fill this gap, this research uses a dependable finite element analysis (FEA) to conduct a parametric study and carry out such an issue. This research considered reinforced concrete pipes with diameters of 25, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 cm at depths of 5, 10, 15 and 20 m.

Findings

According to this research, the proposed best pipeline diameter-to-thickness (D/T) proportions for soil embankment heights 5, 10, 15 and 20 m are 8.75, 4.8, 3.5 and 3.1, correspondingly. The cost-effective reinforced concrete (RC) pipeline thickness dramatically rises if the soil embankment reaches 20 m, indicating that the soil embankment depth highly influences it. Most of the analyzed reinforced concrete pipelines had a maximum deflection value of less than 1 cm, telling that the FEA accurately identified the pipeline width, needed flexural steel reinforcement, and concrete crack width while avoiding significant distortion.

Originality/value

The cost-effective thickness for the analyzed structured concrete pipes was calculated by considering the lowest required value of steel reinforcement. An algorithm was developed based on the parametric scientific findings to predict the ideal pipeline D/T ratio. A construction case study was also shown to assist architects and professionals in determining the best reinforced concrete pipeline geometry for a specific soil embankment height.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 April 2024

Md. Ikramul Hoque, Muzamir Hasan and Shuvo Dip Datta

The stone dust column was used to strengthen the sample and had a significant effect on improving the shear strength of the kaolin clay. The application of stone columns, which…

Abstract

Purpose

The stone dust column was used to strengthen the sample and had a significant effect on improving the shear strength of the kaolin clay. The application of stone columns, which can improve the overall carrying capacity of soft clay as well as lessen the settlement of buildings built on it, is among the most widespread ground improvement techniques throughout the globe. The performance of foundation beds is enhanced by their stiffness values and higher strength, which could withstand more of the load applied. Stone dust is a wonderful source containing micronutrients for soil, particularly those derived from basalt, volcanic rock, granite and other related rocks. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the properties of soft clay reinforced with encapsulated stone dust columns to remediate problematic soil and obtain a more affordable and environmentally friendly way than using other materials.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the treated kaolin sample's shear strength was measured using the unconfined compression test (UCT). 28 batches of soil samples total, 12 batches of single stone dust columns measuring 10 mm in diameter and 12 batches of single stone dust columns measuring 16 mm in diameter. Four batches of control samples are also included. At heights of 60 mm, 80 mm and 100 mm, respectively, various stone dust column diameters were assessed. The real soil sample has a diameter of 50 mm and a height of 100 mm.

Findings

Test results show when kaolin is implanted with a single encased stone dust column that has an area replacement ratio of 10.24% and penetration ratios of 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0, the shear strength increase is 51.75%, 74.5% and 49.20%. The equivalent shear strength increases are 48.50%, 68.50% and 43.50% for soft soil treated with a 12.00% area replacement ratio and 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 penetration ratios.

Originality/value

This study shows a comparison of how sample types affect shear strength. Also, this article provides argumentation behind the variation of soil strength obtained from different test types and gives recommendations for appropriate test methods for soft soil.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 August 2023

Yi Xie and Baojin Zheng

This paper aims to apply the novel numerical model to analyze the effect of pillar material on the response of compound quartz crystal resonator (QCR) with an array of pillars…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to apply the novel numerical model to analyze the effect of pillar material on the response of compound quartz crystal resonator (QCR) with an array of pillars. The performance of the proposed device compared to conventional QCR method was also investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

A finite element method model was developed to analyze the behavior of QCR coupled with an array of pillars. The model was composed of an elastic pillar, a solution and a perfectly matched layer. The validation of the model was performed through a comparison between its predictions and previous experimental measurements. Notably, a good agreement was observed between the predicted results and the experimental data.

Findings

The effect of pillar Young’s modulus on the coupled QCR and pillars with a diameter of 20 µm, a center-to-center spacing of 40 µm and a density of 2,500 kg/m3 was investigated. The results indicate that multiple vibration modes can be obtained based on Young’s modulus. Notably, in the case of the QCR–pillar in air, the second vibration mode occurred at a critical Young’s modulus of 0.2 MPa, whereas the first mode was observed at 3.75 Mpa. The vibration phase analysis revealed phase-veering behavior at the critical Young’s modulus, which resulted in a sudden jump-and-drop frequency shift. In addition, the results show that the critical Young’s modulus is dependent on the surrounding environment of the pillar. For instance, the critical Young’s modulus for the first mode of the pillar is approximately 3.75 Mpa in air, whereas it increases to 6.5 Mpa in water.

Originality/value

It was concluded that the performance of coupled QCR–pillar devices significantly depends on the pillar material. Therefore, choosing pillar material at critical Young’s modulus can lead to the maximum frequency shift of coupled QCR–pillar devices. The model developed in this work helps the researchers design pillars to achieve maximum frequency shift in their measurements using coupled QCR–pillar.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 March 2024

Wael Sheta, Mariam El Hussainy and Sahar Abdelwahab

The fundamental aim of the study is to investigate the implications of labor housing designs in Dubai, with a focus on courtyards and the governing building regulations, on…

Abstract

Purpose

The fundamental aim of the study is to investigate the implications of labor housing designs in Dubai, with a focus on courtyards and the governing building regulations, on daylight performance as an underlying factor impacting laborers’ indoor environmental quality. Several studies shed light on the subject of labor camps and labor migration in Dubai, but few have focused on the subject from the perspective of the environmental performance of these camps. A model that represents one of the labor camps was built using Rhinoceros 7.0 and Grasshopper software packages. Annual daylighting and glare simulations were carried out using the lighting modeling engine RADIANCE 5.0 in conjunction with the “ClimateStudio”.

Design/methodology/approach

The construction sector has emerged as a significant economic development driver, attracting a diverse labor force from a variety of countries to Dubai. As a result, Dubai authorities have implemented several measures to ensure the provision of suitable housing facilities for its labor force. These measures contribute to the reduction of energy costs in labor housing by encouraging the use of renewable energy. While several studies shed light on the subject of labor camps and labor migration in Dubai, few have focused on the subject from the perspective of the environmental performance of these camps.

Findings

The study provided statistical evidence that the current regulations governing courtyards in labor housing resulted in significant changes in daylight levels across different floor levels of the labor housing units. It is suggested that both 2:3 and 3:4 Court Width-to-Height ratios would further contribute to a more consistent daylight Illuminance with marginal statistical differences between floor levels (p > 0.05). The 3:4 ratio, on the other hand, offers a consistent distribution across all floor levels in the North and South with negligible variances, although weakly significant differences can be yet expected between the first and fourth floors in the East and West orientations (p < 0.05). The results of Annual Sunlight Exposure (ASE) suggest excessive solar incidence and a high probability of glare, which remains a problem that must be addressed under the governing building regulations.

Originality/value

This study could serve as a framework for analyzing and contrasting the findings of other studies on labor accommodation, notably in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Such an approach has the potential to enhance living conditions in labor accommodations in Dubai and other areas. It is necessary to meet people' physical and psychological well-being while also addressing sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Details

Open House International, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 February 2024

Xiang Shen, Kai Zeng, Liming Yang, Chengyong Zhu and Laurent Dala

This paper aims to study passive control techniques for transonic flow over a backward-facing step (BFS) using square-lobed trailing edges. The study investigates the efficacy of…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study passive control techniques for transonic flow over a backward-facing step (BFS) using square-lobed trailing edges. The study investigates the efficacy of upward and downward lobe patterns, different lobe widths and deflection angles on flow separation, aiming for a deeper understanding of the flow physics behind the passive flow control system.

Design/methodology/approach

Large Eddy Simulation and Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes were used to evaluate the results of the study. The research explores the impact of upward and downward patterns of lobes on flow separation through the effects of different lobe widths and deflection angles. Numerical methods are used to analyse the behaviour of transonic flow over BFS and compared it to existing experimental results.

Findings

The square-lobed trailing edges significantly enhance the reduction of mean reattachment length by up to 80%. At Ma = 0.8, the up-downward configuration demonstrates increased effectiveness in reducing the root mean square of pressure fluctuations at a proximity of 5-step height in the wake region, with a reduction of 50%, while the flat-downward configuration proves to be more efficient in reducing the root mean square of pressure fluctuations at a proximity of 1-step height in the near wake region, achieving a reduction of 71%. Furthermore, the study shows that the up-downward configuration triggers early spanwise velocity fluctuations, whereas the standalone flat-downward configuration displays less intense crosswise velocity fluctuations within the wake region.

Practical implications

The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of square-lobed trailing edges as passive control techniques, showing significant implications for improving efficiency, performance and safety of the design in aerospace and industrial systems.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates that the square-lobed trailing edges are effective in reducing the mean reattachment length and pressure fluctuations in transonic conditions. The study evaluates the efficacy of different configurations, deflection angles and lobe widths on flow and provides insights into the flow physics of passive flow control systems.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

1 – 10 of 638