Category: Uncategorized

Earth Roads Stabilization using many Additives to increase Rutting Resistance

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (92-106)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/92-106

Research Article By:

Huda Ajel Jihad

Corresponding author E-mail:aa5680084@gmail.com


ABSTRACT

Earth roads are among the oldest roads widely used by humans in rural or desert areas with low traffic density. These roads are usually weak and unable to resist the heavy loads applied to them. Therefore, this research aims to study the possibility of using soil additives to stabilize these roads and increase their ability to resist repetitive loads, and thus enhance the rutting resistance. A series of laboratory tests is conducted on the soil, including Compaction tests, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests, and Wheel Tracking tests, before and after the addition of stabilizing agents. Various amounts of Cutback asphalt, Emulsified asphalt, SBR polymer and Cement are tried. Compaction and CBR tests revealed optimum additive percentages of (4%) for cutback asphalt, (2%) of emulsified asphalt, (2%) of SBR, and (7.5%) of cement, by weight of the dry sample. The obtained bulk CBR-values for the (cutback asphalt, emulsified asphalt, SBR, and cement)-stabilized soil are (4.6, 1.6, 5.7, and 11.2) times that of the natural soil, respectively. Except for cement, the added agents have adverse effects on the original soil behavior upon soaking. Rutting is evaluated via the wheel tracking test, where bulk and soaked samples are tested at temperatures of (40°C) and (60°C). The results showed that using the cutback and emulsified asphalt did not improve the soil rutting resistance. Where (SBR) is used, the treated soil showed high resistance to permanent deformation, with rut depth values of (5 mm) and (3 mm) under (5000 cycles) of load application and at (40°C) and (60°C), respectively. The soaked sample is collapsed during the test. The (7.5%) cement stabilized soil exhibited very high effectiveness in resisting rutting under bulk and soaked conditions, where the rut depth equals (1 mm) at (10000 cycles) of load application for both temperature values.

Keywords:

Earth roads, Rutting, Stabilization, Cement, SBR Polymer.

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Adaptive Hybrid HOA–PSO with Periodic Cluster Head Rotation for Energy-Efficient WSNs

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (80-91)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/80-91

Research Article By:

Huda Ajel Jihad

Corresponding author E-mail:Huda.Ajel@mu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

The energy constraint of wireless sensor networks is very high and this makes the prudent choice of cluster heads imperative to the life of the network and the balanced use of energy. In this paper, a new Adaptive Hybrid Horse Herd Optimization-Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm with Periodic Cluster Head Rotation (AHHCR) is proposed in order to improve energy-efficiency of the clustering schemes. The suggested framework combines the universal searching features of the Horse Herd Optimization algorithm with the speedy convergence features of Particle Swarm Optimization through a multi-objective cost function, which considers residual energy, sink distance as well as historical load to drive the optimization procedure. When subjected to 300 rounds of operation, simulation shows that AHHCR is better than the benchmark protocols, including LEACH, PSO, GWO, and HOA, in significantly extending network lifetime besides minimizing the overall energy consumption. The importance of these performance gains is supported by the statistical tests carried out through Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test. Moreover, other experiments on different network sizes and initial energy distributions proves that the offered methodology is scalable and robust.

Keywords:

Wireless Sensor Networks; Cluster Head Selection; Horse Herd Optimization Algorithm (HOA).

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Numerical Analysis of the Effect of Cavity Location on Settlement Behavior

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (69-79)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/69-79

Research Article By:

Esraa Fakhri Ahmed and Moataz A. Al-Obaydi

Corresponding author E-mail:dralobaydi@uomosul.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Structures founded on the soil mass encounter stability issues due to cavity that may naturally forms in soluble soil or rock. A significant risk associated with excessive settlement and a reduction in strength of soil.  The coupled behavior of soil, foundation, and structure subjected to seismic loading in the presence of cavities is investigated using 3D-PLAXIS software based on FEM. The study examined the impact of cavity positions on foundation settlement and building deflection. The horizontal distance from foundation center to center of cavity (X) was expressed as a ratio to foundation width (B) (X/B=0, 0.5, 1 and 2), while depth of cavity was expressed as a ratio between vertical distance between foundation base and cavity crown (H) to foundation width (B) of (H/B= 0.067, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.33 and 2). The results indicated that in case of no-cavity, the settlement increased considerably to 142 mm under seismic load compared to 62 mm under static load, and the differential settlement increased from zero to 11 mm due to seismic load. The risk condition arose when the cavity found under foundation’s edge (X/B=0.5). The maximum total and differential settlements under seismic load were148 mm and 38 mm, which were 4.05% and 245.5% more than in event of no-cavity. Under the limitations of the current study, the influence of cavity on settlement diminished when the cavity offset to location (X≥B) and the effective depth of cavity extended to (H=0.8B). The maximum building floor deflection exhibited when a cavity positioned beneath foundation (X/B=0).

Keywords:

Dynamic load, inter-storey drift, building deflection, Cavity, total settlement, differential settlement.

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Urban Expansion Prediction in Karbala City, Iraq, Integrating GeoAI and an ANN–CA Model

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (54-68)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/54-68

Research Article By:

Ali Abdul Samea Hameed

Corresponding author E-mail:ali84_baghdad@uobaghdad.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Predicting urban expansion is crucial for rational urban planning and sustainable resource management. This study presents an integrated GeoAI (Geospatial Artificial Intelligence) approach to simulate future urban growth patterns in Karbala City, Iraq. A hybrid ANN-CA model, combining Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Cellular Automata (CA), was developed and calibrated within MATLAB using Landsat imagery (2015-2020). The simulation framework was further informed by principles of the Tietenberg model to account for resource utilization, population dynamics, and developmental pressures, ensuring a sustainability-oriented analysis of land consumption. Validation results, predicting the urban layout for 2025, show a substantial increase in urban area from 13% in 2015 to 24%, indicating intense urban expansion. This study demonstrates the ANN-CA model as a valuable GeoAI tool for urban geographers and planners. The findings provide critical insights for policymakers in Karbala to guide future urban expansion toward more orderly and sustainable development, aligning with the analytical perspectives of the Tietenberg model.

Keywords:

ANN-CA model; GeoAI; Karbala; Tietenberg model; Urban expansion

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Monitoring-point selection for phase-monitoring relays in legacy contactor-based motor starters: evidence from Iraqi refineries

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (43-53)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/43-53

Research Article By:

Ali Husham Dawood Al-Musawi

Corresponding author E-mail:alihusham22@gmail.com


ABSTRACT

Legacy contactor-based induction motor starters in Iraqi refineries continue to rely on phase-monitoring relays to protect motors against single-phasing and severe voltage unbalance. In many aging installations, these relays are wired on the line side of the starter, which can prevent detection of downstream phase loss caused by welded or contaminated contactor poles. This paper proposes a practical monitoring-point selection framework that guides engineers in deciding whether phase-monitoring relays should sense the line side, the load side, or both. The framework is assessed by using a field-based case study in an aging motor control centre in Samawah Refinery. The four contactor-based starters with feeding three-phase induction motors of between 7.5 kW and 22 kW were chosen because of reported history of downstream single-phasing despite a phase-monitoring protection. Relays were moved to the load-side and not the line-side as per the proposed structure, and 3 months before the adjustment and three months after, downstream phase-loss events were documented. The four circuits had a total average of fourteen downstream single-phasing events per month before the implementation of the framework. Following the transfer of the relays to the load side, post-implementation period did not show any downstream single phasing events and there were no nuisance tripping reports. These results are explained in a simplified manner using a reliability interpretation, and are used to demonstrate that load-side sensing greatly decreases the likelihood of undetected downstream phase loss. The research proves that when selecting monitoring-points carefully, it is possible to achieve significant protection performance improvement in the legacy motor starters, wherein the limited observation window is one of the primary limitations of the evidence.

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Keywords:

contactor-based starters, industrial reliability, Iraqi refineries; phase-monitoring relays, single-phasing. 

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Micro-grids and Their Impact as a Smart Grid

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (33-42)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/33-42

Research Article By:

Smko Hussein M. Murad , Sadeq Mohammed Ameen Saeed, and Ali dahham Abdulazeez

Corresponding author E-mail:sadeq.amen@garmian.edu.krd


ABSTRACT

Smart grid (micro-grid) technology is a rapidly evolving area of power system management that is changing the way to generate, distribute, and consume electricity. At the heart of the smart grid are the sources of energy that power it. Ideal sources of energy for smart grid systems and their impact on the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the smart grid are explained in order to clearly understand their effects.  Micro grids are a type of distributed generation since the energy (power and heat) is produced nearby where it is needed. A two-terminal element that has the feature that the voltage between the terminals is known at all times is an ideal voltage source. The current flowing from the source has no bearing on this voltage. This means that any current might conceivably pass through the source in any direction, and this is called a micro-grid.

Keywords:

Inverter, Battery, Smart grid. 

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Adaptive FRT Improvement of DC-Link Voltage-based VSGs in Weak Power Grids

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (15-32)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/15-32

Research Article By:

Ahmed Fawzi , Ali Abdalkarim and Dana Ibraheem

Corresponding author E-mail:Ahmed.fawzi@gpu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

The integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) in modern power systems (MPSs) has been increased. Traditionally, Grid-Following Inverters (GFLIs) have been widely employed for integrating in MPSs. However, in recent years, Grid-Forming Inverters (GFMIs) have emerged as a promising architecture for integrating of RESs. GFMIs mainly establishes their voltage and frequency references independently. This enables GFMIs to have an active contribution on the system inertia, damping, and voltage support. This work develops a fault ride through (FRT) mechanism for Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG) GFMIs, according to the current limiter dynamics and presents a novel power deceleration scheme. During current saturation scheme, the proposed scheme modifies the active power swing loop structured on d-axes current. The effectiveness of the proposed adaptive FRT has been shown under both strong and weak grid conditions. Under symmetrical and asymmetrical faults with different durations, the performance of the proposed scheme has been checked. The results validate the merits of proposed scheme and its compatibility with GFMI objectives. It has been shown that the proposed architecture enhances the FRT capability of DC-link VSGs; in addition, it supports stable operation in weak MPSs and provides a robust solution for grids with high share of RESs.

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Keywords:

Modern Power Systems, Grid Forming Inverters, Fault Ride Through.

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Well Control and Pressure Management Using Artificial Intelligent

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (7-14)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/7-14

Research Article By:

Amel H. Assi , Zena F. Rasheed

Corresponding author E-mail:amel@coeng.uobaghdad.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Artificial intelligence (AI) is process of the pressure management in the oil and gas industry. With its capability to deliver real-time checking, extrapolative analytics, and automated control, AI not only considerably enhances security, but also efficiently lowers costs and make the most of production efficiency. As operatives strive for more well-organized and cost-effective approaches, integrating advanced techniques. AI’s capacity to examine vast amounts of data, predict outcomes, and suggestion real-time solution enhances efficiency, lowers operating cost, and recovers reservoir performance. AI is significantly impacting the energy sector, with potential for further growth. The Middle East has appeared as a key region for improvement and testing of AI systems in the oil and gas industry. RoboWell attitudes at the forefront of novelty well control system. By joining the power of cloud-based AI algorithms, it not only activates wells efficiently but also animatedly self- adjusts to developing conditions in real-time. That advanced system guarantees optimal performance and reliability, revolutionizing how wells are accomplished. Finally, the results show that using python codes and variables aid to control pressures in oil wells and predict kick problem by using driller methods and wait and weight method. Detecting kick type is an important step, in other words (1-2) ppg is gas, (6-8) ppg is oil and (8.6-9) ppg is salt. Shutting Drill Pipe pressure(SIDPP) and Shutting Casing Pressure (SICP) are an important factor through killing, where the study found that it’s safe to keep SICP greater than SIDPP and SICP should be less than 70% from casing burst resistance.

Keywords:

Pressure, Well control, Artificial Intelligence, Management, Performance.

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Environmental Assessment of Ambient Particulate Matter around Al-Qasim Green University

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (14), Issue (1), Year (2026), Pages (1-6)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2026-14-01-/1-6

Research Article By:

Ghassan Abukhanafer

Corresponding author E-mail: ghassan@wrec.uoqasim.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀) have been classified as a hazardous air pollutant because it is inhaled into the respiratory system and can cause chronic health effects. The objectives of this paper are: (i) to evaluate the concentrations of PM in the vicinity of Al-Qasim Green University and (ii) to propose a scientific basis for such studies on sustainability programs within Iraqi universities. Data were obtained between January-June 2025, using a high-volume air sampling instrument at the rate of (a) eight readings per month. Air-quality monitoring results showed that during February and April, the PM2.5 (33 μg/m³ and 33 μg/m³, respectively) and PM10 (83 μg/m³ and 81 μg/m³, respectively) levels exceeded the recommended guideline value set by the WHO. This is due to the following reasons: climate change, intensified vehicular movement, ongoing construction works around residential buildings with no verdant spaces to ensure quality air for breathing, and poor city planning, which collectively affect indoor air quality and compromise students’ comfort zones in terms of inhalation. The study recommends expanding green spaces (>40%), improving parking design, paving unpaved paths to reduce particulate matter, and implementing continuous air quality monitoring.

Keywords:

Particulate matter, PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, air pollutant, campus

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Capacity and Delay Produced by Parking Operating System

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (148-151)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/148-151

Research Article By:

Rania A. Al-Mrumudhia , Jalal T. Al-Obaedia 

Corresponding author E-mail:rainaali.eng.road@qu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

One of the justifications for planning integrated activities is the particular area of the land and its efficiency. Every journey concludes with a look for a parking lot. Therefore, it is important provide adequate parking spaces for vehicles. This is a complicated issue as it cost land spaces at significant areas like city centers. The standard parking provides normal spaces so as no other vehicles can prevent or delay the drivers to leave when finish their duty.   At Al-Diwaniyah city center, most private parking manage their work by forcing drivers to leave the vehicle’s key inside vehicles so as the parking workers can reduce the stopping spaces and increase the capacity of the parking.  This will cause a delay to drivers when they want to leave the parking later due to informal stopping inside the park.    This work examines the effect of leaving the key inside vehicles when stopping on the capacity of parking and delay that causes for drivers.   The results of analyzing data from nine parking reveals that the capacity will significantly increase with a range from 19 to 89% while causing average delay ranged from 81 to 114 sec with a maximum delay of 240 sec. In order to balance capacity and delay, the study emphasizes the significance of using smart parking solutions.

Keywords:

Capacity , Delay , Leave a key , Operating system , Parking.

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CFD and Practical Evaluation of Solid–Gas Flow in Bas-ra Refinery Reactors

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (130-147)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/130-147

Research Article By:

Luay abdulhay Mraweh

Corresponding author E-mail:luayabdulhay90@gmail.com


ABSTRACT

This research presents a detailed investigation into the solid–gas hydrodynamics within the Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) riser reactor at the Basra refinery in Iraq. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were developed using a three-dimensional Eulerian–Eulerian framework with the Gidaspow drag model and the kinetic theory of granular flow (KTGF), and validated against operational data supplied by the South Refineries Company (SRC). The model showed strong predictive capability, with deviations of less than 5% for outlet temperature and pressure drop compared to plant measurements. The validated results revealed a characteristic core–annulus flow structure, with a fast-moving dilute core and a denser annular region exhibiting catalyst back-mixing and wide residence time distribution. Parametric studies quantified the influence of key operating variables. Increasing the C/O ratio from 6.0 to 8.0 raised the riser outlet temperature by about 24 K and slightly increased the pressure drop. At the same time, a feed injection angle of 45° provided the most efficient mixing compared with 30° and 60°. Reducing particle size from 85 μm to 65 μm lowered solid holdup and reduced slip velocity, indicating better gas–solid interaction. These outcomes provide actionable insights for improving energy efficiency, enhancing mixing quality, and optimizing catalyst circulation in FCC riser operation at the Basra refinery. The study demonstrates the practical value of coupling advanced CFD models with field data to deliver reliable guidance for process optimization.

Keywords:

CFD, Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC), riser reactor, Basra refinery, Eulerian–Eulerian model, process optimization, energy efficiency.

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Priorities of Architectural Programming for Sustainability: Designs of Norman Foster as a Case Study

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (116-129)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/116-129

Research Article By:

Asma H. Al-Dabbagh , Mohammed M. Taha 

Corresponding author E-mail:asma.dabbagh@uomosul.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Architectural programming is defined as a systematic method that leads to a statement of the architectural problem, which defines the Goals to produce the most appropriate solution. Goals are defined as a statement that expresses aims and purposes and are considered a means for decision-making. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were identified in 17 goals, of which Goals 11 and 7 were linked to architectural design. By delineating three Aspects for goals: the categories and main values of the goals, and the physical positions for their application, this research seeks to uncover the goals of architectural programming (Independent variables) regarding sus-tainability and their physical positions (Dependent variables). By analyzing texts in which the architect Norman Foster   specified aspects of applying sustainability, and classifying its mechanisms, aiming to determine priorities of goals during the programming phase and mechanisms during the application phase. The results demonstrated that Foster focuses mainly on environmental goals, followed by economic and social goals. These goals are applied mainly in external building masses, internal spaces, and techniques used to recycle materials and reduce energy consumption. The conclusions were linked to SDG 11 in terms of its focus on environmental aspects, as well as SDG 7 through its focus on energy issues. The recommendations included the importance of discussing environmental and social goals in the initial stages of architectural programming, and that it is also possible to analyze, measure, and evaluate solutions within the mechanisms of the external mass using traditional methods or modern software during these stages. Furthermore, the importance of targeting economic objectives in new and old designs was highlighted to improve the sustainable performance of existing buildings.

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Keywords:

Architectural programming, Goals delineation, Sustainability, Sustainable architecture, Norman Foster.

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Integration Strategies of Motion and Construction Systems in the architectural design of kinetic buildings

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (90-115)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/90-115

Research Article By:

Farah Jallo Razoki , Dhuha A. Al-kazzaz 

Corresponding author E-mail:farah.23enp118@student.uomosul.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Kinetic architecture focuses on the design of building elements that can change their shapes, positions, or configurations in response to environmental conditions or user needs, using mechanical, natural, or smart techniques while maintaining structural stability. The research problem was to investigate methods of integrating movement with construction Systems in the design of kinetic buildings to achieve functional, aesthetic, and sustainable outcomes. The study aimed to present a theoretical framework developed through a thematic analysis of previous studies, including factors of shared movement systems, construction methods, and ways of integrating them into the practice of kinetic building design. Common motion includes turning, opening, closing, folding, sliding, and deforming that are implemented using construction systems such as articulated bars, folded plates, cable structures, membranes, pneumatic systems, smart materials, and hybrid solutions. The integration of motion and structure varies, with most projects relying on mechanical, electrical, and computational systems to synchronize motion with structure, while intelligent and interactive systems enable adaptive performance through sensors or software. Control strategies range from direct control to indirect control as well as internal control that achieve dynamic and flexible buildings capable of environmental and interactive adaptation. In addition, integration into kinetic building systems adopts a responsive or non-responsive approach. The paper specifically examined the strategies of integrating movement and structure in contemporary dynamic pavilion projects. A descriptive-analytical approach was applied to extract the characteristics of ten real kinetic case studies. A comparative analysis of these characteristics revealed that modern kinetic architecture relies on a balanced integration of movement and construction technologies, using diverse integration methods and control systems to achieve flexible, interactive, environmentally responsive buildings capable of dynamically adapting to various variables, thus enhancing innovation and aesthetics, as well as functional performance.

Keywords:

Kinetic Buildings, Motion Techniques, Construction Systems, Integration Strategies, Automated and Non-Automated Response.

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Development of a Digitally Baffled Electro-Photocatalytic Oxidation Batch Reactor for High-Efficiency Treatment of Refinery Wastewater

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (78-89)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/78-89

Research Article By:

Ali Saleh Jafer

Corresponding author E-mail: ali.salih@mu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

This study presents the growth and optimization of a new design of an electro/photocatalytic organic compounds oxidation batch reactor with a digital baffle for refinery wastewater (RWW). The system combined electro and photo oxidation with zinc oxide as a photo catalyst by using a stainless steel anode and an iron cathode. The combined design was operated under varying oxidation times (5–25 min), pH solution (3–9), agitation speed (100-300), and catalyst (10–50 mg/L) to assess treatment competence and enhance working parameters by Box-Behnken design under response surface design. The digital baffled configuration was used to enhance mixing and irritation distribution, confirming the activation of the catalyst and mass transfer throughout the batch electrooxidation reactor. Results established important organic degradation, with electro-oxidation alone attaining a maximum removal efficiency of 91.2%, while the combined photo-electrochemical process reached up to 99.5% competence under optimal conditions of 25 min,300 RPM, 50 ppm catalyst concentration, and 9 pH. The reactor’s presentation was credited to the synergistic effects of free radical production, the activity of photocatalytic, and enhanced hydrodynamics eased by the digital baffling design for organic compounds in refinery wastewater.

Keywords:

wastewater; organic compounds; wastewater treatment; Advanced Oxidation Processes; Electro-catalytic; optimization.

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A review of the effect of steel fibers on the shear capacity of concrete beams without shear reinforcement

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (68-77)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/68-77

Research Article By:

Huda Sabeeh Merdas, Muhaned A. Shallal, Nuha Abdulsada AL-Mayyahi and Milad Shalaal Tarish4 

Corresponding author E-mail: nuhaabdulsada@gmail.com


ABSTRACT

The shear strength of reinforced concrete beams is largely governed by the compressive strength of concrete, which represents a major component of the overall shear capacity. Incorporating steel fibers into the concrete matrix has been shown to enhance this capacity and significantly improve structural performance. A comprehensive review of previous experimental studies indicates that the shear strength is primarily influenced by the longitudinal reinforcement ratio and the shear span ratio (a/d), while the effect of compressive strength becomes more evident in high strength concrete. It was also observed that the inclusion of steel fibers at a volume fraction of approximately 0.75% can increase the shear strength of beams by 25-35% compared with plain concrete specimens. Moreover, steel fiber-reinforced beams demonstrated superior crack control and enhanced ductility, thereby reducing the risk of sudden brittle shear failure. Notably, the improvement in shear behavior was found to be relatively independent of the fiber type, while the overall workability of the concrete remained within acceptable limits. These findings highlight research gaps regarding the optimum fiber dosage under different loading conditions and long-term performance.

Keywords:

Steel fibers, Concrete Beams, Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC), Shear Strength, Shear Failure, Shear Span Ratio(a/d), Compressive Strength.

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Evaluation of the Groundwater Quality Affected by Solid Waste Leachate Around Al-Diwaniyah Dumpsite Based on WQI

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (56-67)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/56-67

Research Article By:

Fatin F. Aziz, Rania Al-Nawasir, Nuha Abdulsada Al-Mayyahi, Sarah Abdul Mahdi Musheer, Sajjad Abd Muslim Al-Jawasim and Nawras Alobaidy

Corresponding author E-mail: fatin.alkhuzaai@qu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Open and unsanitary landfills have served for many years in developing countries such as Iraq as a standard and economically inexpensive method of solid waste disposal. Leachate generated from these dumps’ bases seriously affects the surrounding environment, especially groundwater sources. There have been reports of potential environmental hazards associated with leachate in the Al-Diwaniyah open landfill in Iraq. Therefore, in this investigation the quality of groundwater and characteristics of observation wells around the dumpsite was studied. Groundwater samples collected from four hand-excavated wells at a dumpsite were analyzed periodically using standard methods in dry and wet seasons through the period (September 2023–March 2024) in order to evaluate leachate pollutants and their impact on groundwater quality. The main analyzed parameters in leachate and groundwater included pH, Electrical Conductivity, Turbidity, Total Suspended Solid, Total Dissolved Solid, BOD5, COD, Chloride, Sulphate, Nitrate, in addition to heavy metals including Iron, Zinc, Copper, Chromium, Lead, and Cadmium. To illustrate the spatial distribution of pollutants during the dry and rainy seasons, indicators were used to assess groundwater quality. The results of the groundwater quality index (Canadian model) reported poor groundwater and unsuitable for drinking and agriculture in (GW1, GW2) neighboring the dumpsite in the range of (100-500) m from the dumpsite. In contrast, GW3 water quality is often threatened, except for GW4, which was unsuitable for drinking but can be used for agriculture. Extending this research to other regions would enhance the environmental monitoring of groundwater and assess possible threats to human health in the study area. Constructing an engineered landfill that complies with authorized environmental standards would also be beneficial.

Keywords:

Al-Diwaniyah Dumpsite, Solid Waste, Leachate, Groundwater, Water Quality Index.

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Effect of Drawing Speed on the Reliability of Drawing Dies

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (43-55)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/43-55

Research Article By:

Salam Adil ALI Al Rufaye

Corresponding author E-mail: salamadil750@gmail.com


ABSTRACT

Reliable drawing dies are crucial for successful modern wire production. If these parts fail, repairs can be time-consuming and costly. This study examines how drawing speed affects die reliability within a standard commercial range of 50 to 400 m/min. We tested 750 tungsten carbide dies using various methods, including Weibull reliability analysis. Fifty dies were tested at each of 15 different speeds. Our results show a strong inverse relationship between die lifespan and drawing speed, and a significant direct relationship between operating temperature and wear rate. As drawing speed increased from 50 to 400 m/min, the average die life decreased by 65%, the wear rate increased exponentially, and the average operating temperature rose linearly. We identified three failure zones: a moderate wear phase (50–150 m/min), a rapid failure stage (300–400 m/min), and a period of accelerated degradation (150–300 m/min). In each zone, different wear mechanisms may occur. These findings help manufacturers extend die life, improve efficiency, implement predictive maintenance, and develop new die technologies that could reduce costs by 15–25%.

Keywords:

Drawing dies, Wire drawing, Reliability analysis, Drawing speed, Wear mechanisms, Tungsten carbide.

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A Mini-Review on the Structural Behavior of Reactive Powder Concrete Reinforced Slabs

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (34-42)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/34-42

Research Article By:

Sokaina Issa Kadhim , Nuha Abdulsada Al-Mayyahi , Milad Shalaal Tarish , and Rawan Badr Alsafan 

Corresponding author E-mail: nuhaabdulsada@gmail.com


ABSTRACT

Two-way slabs are widely used members in constructions due to the huge necessity for them because it has the property of carrying loads for the columns, piles, and even the soil. In order to extend the two-way slabs for larger spans, designers need to maximize the slab thickness, which will increase the structure’s self-weight, which may not be able to resist. So, designers treated such a problem by increasing the overall concrete strength of slabs in order to prevent the choice of increasing the slab thickness. This article reviewed the previous studies to summarize some significant points, such as the effect of using steel fibers and openings within slabs was also investigated, as well as the use of reactive powder concrete. It was concluded that the severity of openings in slabs depends on their location, shape, and size. In some cases, larger openings might behave structurally like separate beam systems, but it often still reduce capacity significantly. Also, the ultimate load was decreased by increasing the opening size with the same CFRP (Carbon-fiber reinforced polymer) reinforcement ratio. Furthermore, the method of strengthening with CFRP is more effective than the method of using Steel fibers (SF).

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Keywords:

Reactive powder concrete, two-way slabs, bending and shear capacity, reinforced concrete.

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Seed Detection algorithm using multi-thresholding measures on histopathological images

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (27-33)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/27-33

Research Article By:

Salah Alheejawi, Ruwaidah F. Albadr, Ahmed Saaudi, Osamah Thamer Hassan Al-zubaidi

Corresponding author E-mail: ahmed.saaudi@mu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

The recent advancing of computational resources, led to a significant improvement in histopathological image analysis. These improvements helped to diagnosis various diseases and dive into cellular level of the tissue for accurate prognosis. Therefore, an automated algorithm is proposed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. This paper proposes a detection technique to detect the cells nuclei on histopathological images that are stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). The proposed technique applies multiple thresholds on the grayscale image version of the H&E-stained image and from each resulted binary image, several centroids are extracted for each disconnected foreground region. Three measures such as area, centroid location, and circularity ratio have been used to determine the selection of nuclei seed. The technique assigns certainty weights based on threshold values, enhancing the reliability of detected seeds. Comparisons with existing methods, like the generalized Laplacian of Gaussian (gLoG) technique, demonstrate the proposed method’s efficiency and accuracy, providing a robust foundation for further segmentation processes.

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Keywords:

Histopathological Images; H&E-Stained Images; Multi-Thresholding; Nuclei Segmentation; Seed Detection

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Converting Heavy Fuel Oil into Light Fractions by Using Thermal Cracking

Muthanna Journal of Engineering and Technology

Volume (13), Issue (3), Year (2025), Pages (15-26)

DOI:10.52113/3/eng/mjet/2025-13-03-/15-26

Research Article By:

Hanan A. Ibrahim

Corresponding author E-mail: hanan.ahmed.ibrahim@mu.edu.iq


ABSTRACT

Global developments have led to a steady increase in demand for light petroleum derivatives, which are more valuable than heavy derivatives. Therefore, it was necessary to seek unconventional methods for supplying them, such as the use of thermal cracking technology. In this research, the residual crude oil produced from atmospheric distillation unit was selected and a study was conducted to convert it into light petroleum derivatives using the thermal cracking process. The efficiency and accuracy of the technology used in this research were studied by selecting parameters such as API gravity and conversion ratio from used heavy fuel oil (API = 15.5) to light petroleum products. To achieve optimum operating conditions and the best desired process results, experiments were designed using response surface methodology (RSM). The process study was selected to be within the temperature range (350-450°C) and time (30-60 min), where the best possible specifications for the resulting light petroleum derivatives would be achieved, with an API density of (32.1), a conversion rate of (79.2%), a time of (45) min, and a temperature of (421)°C

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Keywords:

AR, atmospheric residue ,API, Thermal Cracking, Residual crude oil, Conversion rate

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