Abstract: A large quantity of world-s oil reserves exists in
carbonate reservoirs. Carbonate reservoirs are very sensitive to
chemical enhanced oil recovery process because of containing large
amount of calcite, dolomite and calcium sulfate minerals. These
minerals cause major obstacles during alkali-surfactant-polymer
(ASP) flooding. Alkali reacts with these minerals and form undesired
precipitations which plug effective porous openings, reduce
permeability and cause scale occurrence at the wellbore. In this
paper, a new chemical combination consists of acrylic acid and alkali
was used to minimize precipitation problem during ASP flooding. A
series of fluid-fluid compatibility tests were performed using acrylic
acid and different concentrations of alkaline. Two types of alkalis
namely; sodium carbonate and sodium metaborate were screened. As
a result, the combination of acrylic acid and sodium carbonate was
not effective in preventing calcium and magnesium precipitations.
However, acrylic acid and sodium metaborate showed promising
results for keeping all solutions without any precipitations. The ratio
of acrylic acid to sodium metaborate of 0.7:1.0 was found to be
optimum for achieving a compatible solution for 30 days at 80oC.
Abstract: This paper presents a hybrid fuzzy-PD plus PID
(HFPP) controller and its application to steam distillation process for
essential oil extraction system. Steam temperature is one of the most
significant parameters that can influence the composition of essential
oil yield. Due to parameter variations and changes in operation
conditions during distillation, a robust steam temperature controller becomes nontrivial to avoid the degradation of essential oil quality.
Initially, the PRBS input is triggered to the system and output of steam temperature is modeled using ARX model structure. The
parameter estimation and tuning method is adopted by simulation
using HFPP controller scheme. The effectiveness and robustness of
proposed controller technique is validated by real time
implementation to the system. The performance of HFPP using 25 and 49 fuzzy rules is compared. The experimental result demonstrates the proposed HFPP using 49 fuzzy rules achieves a
better, consistent and robust controller compared to PID when considering the test on tracking the set point and the effects due to disturbance.
Abstract: Polyurethane foam (PUF) were prepared by
reacting polyols synthesized from soy-oil into mixture of 2,4-
Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) with 4,4--Methylene Diamine
Isocyanate (MDI) with ratio of 70:30. The polyols obtained
via esterification reaction were categorize into different
temperature of reaction and by used of varied concentration
of phosphoric acid catalyst. The purpose of catalysts is to
shifting selectivity to a desired and value added of product.
The effect of stoichiometric balance (molar ratio of
epoxide/ethylene glycol) to the concentration of the catalyst
on the final properties was evaluated.
Abstract: Air pollution is a major environmental health
problem, affecting developed and developing countries around the
world. Increasing amounts of potentially harmful gases and
particulate matter are being emitted into the atmosphere on a global
scale, resulting in damage to human health and the environment.
Petroleum-related air pollutants can have a wide variety of adverse
environmental impacts. In the crude oil production sectors, there is a
strong need for a thorough knowledge of gaseous emissions resulting
from the flaring of associated gas of known composition on daily
basis through combustion activities under several operating
conditions. This can help in the control of gaseous emission from
flares and thus in the protection of their immediate and distant
surrounding against environmental degradation.
The impacts of methane and non-methane hydrocarbons emissions
from flaring activities at oil production facilities at Kuwait Oilfields
have been assessed through a screening study using records of flaring
operations taken at the gas and oil production sites, and by analyzing
available meteorological and air quality data measured at stations
located near anthropogenic sources. In the present study the
Industrial Source Complex (ISCST3) Dispersion Model is used to
calculate the ground level concentrations of methane and nonmethane
hydrocarbons emitted due to flaring in all over Kuwait
Oilfields.
The simulation of real hourly air quality in and around oil
production facilities in the State of Kuwait for the year 2006,
inserting the respective source emission data into the ISCST3
software indicates that the levels of non-methane hydrocarbons from
the flaring activities exceed the allowable ambient air standard set by
Kuwait EPA. So, there is a strong need to address this acute problem
to minimize the impact of methane and non-methane hydrocarbons
released from flaring activities over the urban area of Kuwait.
Abstract: The influence of viscosity on droplet diameter for
water-in-crude oil (w/o) emulsion with two different ratios; 20-80 %
and 50-50 % w/o emulsion was examined in the Brookfield
Rotational Digital Rheometer. The emulsion was prepared with
sorbitan sesquiolate (Span 83) act as emulsifier at varied temperature
and stirring speed in rotation per minute (rpm). Results showed that
the viscosity of w/o emulsion was strongly augmented by increasing
volume of water and decreased the temperature. The changing of
viscosity also altered the droplet size distribution. Changing of
droplet diameter was depends on the viscosity and the behavior of
emulsion either Newtonian or non-Newtonian.
Abstract: This paper discuss the separation of the miscible
liquids by means of fractional distillation. For complete separation of
liquids, the process of heating, condensation, separation and storage
is done automatically to achieve the objective. PIC micro-controller
has been used to control each and every process of the work. The
controller also controls the storage process by activating and deactivating
the conveyors. The liquids are heated which on reaching
their respective boiling points evaporate and enter the condensation
chamber where they convert into liquid. The liquids are then directed
to their respective tanks by means of stepper motor which moves in
three directions, each movement into different tank. The tank on
filling sends the signal to controller which then opens the solenoid
valves. The tank is emptied into the beakers below the nozzle. As the
beaker filled, the nozzle closes and the conveyors come into
operation. The filled beaker is replaced by an empty beaker from
behind. The work can be used in oil industries, chemical industries
and paint industries.
Abstract: When the foundations of structures under cyclic
loading with amplitudes less than their permissible load, the concern exists often for the amount of uniform and non-uniform settlement of
such structures. Storage tank foundations with numerous filling and discharging and railways ballast course under repeating
transportation loads are examples of such conditions. This paper
deals with the effects of using the new generation of reinforcements,
Grid-Anchor, for the purpose of reducing the permanent settlement
of these foundations under the influence of different proportions of
the ultimate load. Other items such as the type and the number of
reinforcements as well as the number of loading cycles are studied numerically. Numerical models were made using the Plaxis3D
Tunnel finite element code. The results show that by using gridanchor
and increasing the number of their layers in the same
proportion as that of the cyclic load being applied, the amount of
permanent settlement decreases up to 42% relative to unreinforced
condition depends on the number of reinforcement layers and percent
of applied load and the number of loading cycles to reach a constant
value of dimensionless settlement decreases up to 20% relative to
unreinforced condition.
Abstract: This paper presents a numerical analysis of the
performance of a five-bladed Darrieus vertical-axis water turbine,
based on the NACA 0025 blade profile, for both bare and shrouded
configurations. A complete campaign of 2-D simulations, performed
for several values of tip speed ratio and based on RANS unsteady
calculations, has been performed to obtain the rotor torque and power
curves. Also the effect of a NACA-shaped central hydrofoil has been
investigated, with the aim of evaluating the impact of a solid
blockage on the performance of the shrouded rotor configuration.
The beneficial effect of the shroud on rotor overall performances
has clearly been evidenced, while the adoption of the central
hydrofoil has proved to be detrimental, being the resulting flow slow
down (due to the presence of the obstacle) much higher with respect
to the flow acceleration (due to the solid blockage effect).
Abstract: This article presents the simulation, parameterization and optimization of an electromagnet with the C–shaped configuration, intended for the study of magnetic properties of materials. The electromagnet studied consists of a C-shaped yoke, which provides self–shielding for minimizing losses of magnetic flux density, two poles of high magnetic permeability and power coils wound on the poles. The main physical variable studied was the static magnetic flux density in a column within the gap between the poles, with 4cm2 of square cross section and a length of 5cm, seeking a suitable set of parameters that allow us to achieve a uniform magnetic flux density of 1x104 Gaussor values above this in the column, when the system operates at room temperature and with a current consumption not exceeding 5A. By means of a magnetostatic analysis by the finite element method, the magnetic flux density and the distribution of the magnetic field lines were visualized and quantified. From the results obtained by simulating an initial configuration of electromagnet, a structural optimization of the geometry of the adjustable caps for the ends of the poles was performed. The magnetic permeability effect of the soft magnetic materials used in the poles system, such as low– carbon steel (0.08% C), Permalloy (45% Ni, 54.7% Fe) and Mumetal (21.2% Fe, 78.5% Ni), was also evaluated. The intensity and uniformity of the magnetic field in the gap showed a high dependence with the factors described above. The magnetic field achieved in the column was uniform and its magnitude ranged between 1.5x104 Gauss and 1.9x104 Gauss according to the material of the pole used, with the possibility of increasing the magnetic field by choosing a suitable geometry of the cap, introducing a cooling system for the coils and adjusting the spacing between the poles. This makes the device a versatile and scalable tool to generate the magnetic field necessary to perform magnetic characterization of materials by techniques such as vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), Hall-effect, Kerr-effect magnetometry, among others. Additionally, a CAD design of the modules of the electromagnet is presented in order to facilitate the construction and scaling of the physical device.
Abstract: Novel acrylated epoxidized hemp oil (AEHO) based
bioresins were successfully synthesised, characterized and applied to
biocomposites reinforced with woven jute fibre. Characterisation of
the synthesised AEHO consisted of acid number titrations and FTIR
spectroscopy to assess the success of the acrylation reaction. Three
different matrices were produced (vinylester (VE), 50/50 blend of
AEHO/VE and 100% AEHO) and reinforced with jute fibre to form
three different types of biocomposite samples. Mechanical properties
in the form of flexural and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) were
investigated and compared for the different samples. Results from the
mechanical tests showed that AEHO and 50/50 based neat bioresins
displayed lower flexural properties compared with the VE samples.
However when applied to biocomposites and compared with VE
based samples, AEHO biocomposites demonstrated comparable
flexural performance and improved ILSS. These results are attributed
to improved fibre-matrix interfacial adhesion due to surface-chemical
compatibility between the natural fibres and bioresin.
Abstract: In many buildings we rely on large footings to offer
structural stability. Designers often compensate for the lack of
knowledge available with regard to foundation-soil interaction by
furnishing structures with overly large footings. This may lead to a
significant increase in building expenditures if many large
foundations are present. This paper describes the interface material
law that governs the behavior along the contact surface of adjacent
materials, and the behavior of a large foundation under ultimate limit
loading. A case study is chosen that represents a common
foundation-soil system frequently used in general practice and
therefore relevant to other structures. Investigations include
compressing versus uplifting wind forces, alterations to the
foundation size and subgrade compositions, the role of the slab
stiffness and presence and the effect of commonly used structural
joints and connections. These investigations aim to provide the
reader with an objective design approach, efficiently preventing
structural instability.
Abstract: Algae-based fuel are considered a promising sources
of clean energy, and because it has many advantages over traditional
biofuel, research and business ventures have driven into developing
and producing Algal-biofuel. But its production stages create a cost
structure that it is not competitive with traditional fuels. Therefore,
cost becomes the main obstacle in commercial production purpose.
However, the present research which aims at using cost structure
model, and designed MS-Dose program, to investigate the a mount of
production cost and determined the parameter had great effect on it,
second to measured the amount of contribution rate of algae in
process the pollution by capturing Co2 from air . The result generated
from the model shows that the production cost of biomass is between
$0.137 /kg for 100 ha and $0.132 /kg for 500 ha which was less than
cost of other studies, while gallon costs between $3.4 - 3.5, more
than traditional sources of oil about $1 ,which regarded as a rate of
contribution of algal in capturing CO2 from air.
Abstract: Modelling techniques for a fluid coupling taken from
published literature have been extended to include the effects of the
filling and emptying of the coupling with oil and the variation in
losses when the coupling is partially full. In the model, the fluid flow
inside the coupling is considered to have two principal velocity
components; one circumferentially about the coupling axis
(centrifugal head) and the other representing the secondary vortex
within the coupling itself (vortex head). The calculation of liquid
mass flow rate circulating between the two halves of the coupling is
based on: the assumption of a linear velocity variation in the
circulating vortex flow; the head differential in the fluid due to the
speed difference between the two shafts; and the losses in the
circulating vortex flow as a result of the impingement of the flow
with the blades in the coupling and friction within the passages
between the blades.
Abstract: Economically transformers constitute one of the largest investments in a Power system. For this reason, transformer condition assessment and management is a high priority task. If a transformer fails, it would have a significant negative impact on revenue and service reliability. Monitoring the state of health of power transformers has traditionally been carried out using laboratory Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) tests performed at periodic intervals on the oil sample, collected from the transformers. DGA of transformer oil is the single best indicator of a transformer-s overall condition and is a universal practice today, which started somewhere in the 1960s. Failure can occur in a transformer due to different reasons. Some failures can be limited or prevented by maintenance. Oil filtration is one of the methods to remove the dissolve gases and prevent the deterioration of the oil. In this paper we analysis the DGA data by regression method and predict the gas concentration in the oil in the future. We bring about a comparative study of different traditional methods of regression and the errors generated out of their predictions. With the help of these data we can deduce the health of the transformer by finding the type of fault if it has occurred or will occur in future. Additional in this paper effect of filtration on the transformer health is highlight by calculating the probability of failure of a transformer with and without oil filtrating.
Abstract: In the Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) method, use of Carbon dioxide flooding whereby CO2 is injected into an oil reservoir to increase output when extracting oil resulted significant recovery worldwide. The carbon dioxide function as a pressurizing agent when mixed into the underground crude oil will reduce its viscosity and will enable a rapid oil flow. Despite the CO2’s advantage in the oil recovery, it may result to asphaltene precipitation a problem that will cause the reduction of oil produced from oil wells. In severe cases, asphaltene precipitation can cause costly blockages in oil pipes and machinery. This paper presents reviews of several studies done on mathematical modeling of asphaltene precipitation. The synthesized result from several researches done on this topic can be used as guide in order to better understand asphaltene precipitation. Likewise, this can be used as initial reference for students, and new researchers doing study on asphaltene precipitation.
Abstract: In order to evaluation the effects of soil organic
matter and biofertilizer on chickpea quality and biological
nitrogen fixation, field experiments were carried out in 2007
and 2008 growing seasons. In this research the effects of
different strategies for soil fertilization were investigated on
grain yield and yield component, minerals, organic compounds
and cooking time of chickpea. Experimental units were
arranged in split-split plots based on randomized complete
blocks with three replications. Main plots consisted of (G1):
establishing a mixed vegetation of Vicia panunica and
Hordeum vulgare and (G2): control, as green manure levels.
Also, five strategies for obtaining the base fertilizer
requirement including (N1): 20 t.ha-1 farmyard manure; (N2):
10 t.ha-1 compost; (N3): 75 kg.ha-1 triple super phosphate;
(N4): 10 t.ha-1 farmyard manure + 5 t.ha-1 compost and (N5):
10 t.ha-1 farmyard manure + 5 t.ha-1 compost + 50 kg.ha-1
triple super phosphate were considered in sub plots.
Furthermoree four levels of biofertilizers consisted of (B1):
Bacillus lentus + Pseudomonas putida; (B2): Trichoderma
harzianum; (B3): Bacillus lentus + Pseudomonas putida +
Trichoderma harzianum; and (B4): control (without
biofertilizers) were arranged in sub-sub plots. Results showed
that integrating biofertilizers (B3) and green manure (G1)
produced the highest grain yield. The highest amounts of yield
were obtained in G1×N5 interaction. Comparison of all 2-way
and 3-way interactions showed that G1N5B3 was determined
as the superior treatment. Significant increasing of N, P2O5,
K2O, Fe and Mg content in leaves and grains emphasized on
superiority of mentioned treatment because each one of these
nutrients has an approved role in chlorophyll synthesis and
photosynthesis abilities of the crops. The combined application
of compost, farmyard manure and chemical phosphorus (N5)
in addition to having the highest yield, had the best grain
quality due to high protein, starch and total sugar contents, low
crude fiber and reduced cooking time.
Abstract: In the present work we report a gram negative
bacterial isolate, from soil of a dye industry, with promising
biorefining and bioremediation potential. This isolate (GBS.5) could
utilize carbazole (nitrogen containing polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbon) as the sole source of nitrogen and carbon and utilize
almost 98% of 3mM carbazole in 100 hours. The specific activity of
our GBS.5 isolate for carbazole degradation at 30°C and pH 7.0 was
found to be 11.36 μmol/min/g dry cell weight as compared to 10.4
μmol/min/g dry cell weight, the highest reported specific activity till
date. The presence of car genes (the genes involved in
denitrogenation of carbazole) was confirmed through PCR
amplification.
Abstract: Pretreatment of oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) with N-Methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) to enhance biogas production was investigated. The pretreatments were performed at 90 and 120ºC for 1, 3, and 5 h using three different concentrations of NMMO of 73%, 79%, and 85%. The pretreated OPEFB was subsequently anaerobically digested to produce biogas. After pretreatment, there were no significant changes of the main composition of OPEFB and the maximum total solid recovery was 92%. The amorphous phase was increased up to 78% at pretreatment condition using 85% NMMO solution for 3 h at 120oC. In general, higher concentration of NMMO and higher temperature resulted in increased amorphous form and higher biogas production. The best results of biogas production reached enhancement of methane yield of 148% compared to the untreated OPEFB and increased in digestion of 94% compared to starch as reference.
Abstract: The Niger Delta Region of Nigeria is home to about
20 million people and 40 different ethnic groups. The region has an
area of seventy thousand square kilometers (70,000 KM2) of
wetlands, formed primarily by sediments deposition and makes up
7.5 percent of Nigeria's total landmass. The notable ecological zones
in this region includes: coastal barrier islands; mangrove swamp
forests; fresh water swamps; and lowland rainforests. This incredibly
naturally-endowed ecosystem region, which contains one of the
highest concentrations of biodiversity on the planet, in addition to
supporting abundant flora and fauna, is threatened by the inhuman act
known as gas flaring. Gas flaring is the combustion of natural gas
that is associated with crude oil when it is pumped up from the
ground. In petroleum-producing areas such as the Niger Delta region
of Nigeria where insufficient investment was made in infrastructure
to utilize natural gas, flaring is employed to dispose of this associated
gas. This practice has impoverished the communities where it is
practiced, with attendant environmental, economic and health
challenges. This paper discusses the adverse environmental and
health implication associated with the practice, the role of
Government, Policy makers, Oil companies and the Local
communities aimed at bring this inhuman practice to a prompt end.
Abstract: In India, the quarrel between the budding human
populace and the planet-s unchanging supply of freshwater and
falling water tables has strained attention the reuse of gray water as
an alternative water resource in rural development. This paper
present the finest design of laboratory scale gray water treatment
plant, which is a combination of natural and physical operations such
as primary settling with cascaded water flow, aeration, agitation and
filtration, hence called as hybrid treatment process. The economical
performance of the plant for treatment of bathrooms, basins and
laundries gray water showed in terms of deduction competency of
water pollutants such as COD (83%), TDS (70%), TSS (83%), total
hardness (50%), oil and grease (97%), anions (46%) and cations
(49%). Hence, this technology could be a good alternative to treat
gray water in residential rural area.