Research Publications (Engineering and Built Environment)
Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/215
Browse
Search Results
Item The prospect of floating photovoltaic in clean energy provision and net-zero-emissions(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2024) Ebhota, Williams S.; Tabakov, Pavel Y.This study emphasizes the critical role of renewable energy in addressing climate change challenges, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It highlights the central importance of solar photovoltaic systems. While recognizing South Africa’s progress in renewable energy deployment, the study notes that substantial efforts are still needed to meet the country’s renewable energy targets. The study’s primary aim is to enhance the understanding and deployment of solar photovoltaic systems by critically examining the photovoltaic potential and performance of different sites. To achieve this, two scenarios—land photovoltaic and floating photovoltaic systems—were considered, focusing on hypothetical 10 MWp-installed capacity systems. The results indicate that the 10-MWp land photovoltaic system has a global tilted irradiance of 2184.7 kWh/m2, an annual total output of 18 GWh, and an average yearly performance ratio of 81%. The economic parameters for the land photovoltaic system include a capital expenditure of $9.0 million, an operational expenditure of $157,500 annually, and a levelised cost of energy of $0.04089/kWh. In contrast, the 10-MWp floating photovoltaic system reports a Global Tilted Irradiance of 1797 kWh/m2, an annual total output of 16 GWh, and a performance ratio of 76%. The economic parameters for the floating photovoltaic system include a capital expenditure of $10.6 million, an operational expenditure of $176,250 annually, and a levelised cost of energy of $0.04936/kWh. Both scenarios’ econo-technical parameters fall within acceptable ranges. However, the land photovoltaic system shows better performance, indicating some efficiency loss in the floating photovoltaic system possibly due to harsher offshore conditions. Based on the data from the reports, the study concludes that the econo-technical feasibility of floating photovoltaic in the Western Cape Province of South Africa is high.Item A review of the implications of polyethylene plastics when utilized as chemical storage tanks(Journal of Aeronautical Materials, 2024-05-01) Khanyi, Nhlanhla F.; Tabakov, Pavel Y.; Inambao, Freddie L.Many studies have been conducted to investigate the impact or influence of polyethylene (PE) plastic when used as chemical liquid storage. Herein, this literature addresses the factors that contribute to the degradation of chemical storage tanks as a result of PE plastics and how they can be mitigated. This is achieved by reviewing and discussing the significant properties of High-density polyethylene (HDPE), which have been reported to degrade the chemicals stored in these storage tanks. The method of cross-linking the PE was reviewed with its preceding processes that involve chemical and physical processes. The influence of each agent on the resulting properties is discussed in detail including the effect of cross-linking degree. These methods were found to be significant in improving some of the properties of HDPE to better store chemical substances. Nonetheless, it was established that the main concern of PE plastics is environmental stress cracking (ESC), which causes unexpected cracks within the HDPE storage tanks, thus degrading the substance contained. The currently used method or test (bentstrip) to determine the resistance of PE to ESC and techniques used to monitor it were reviewed and discussed in detail. Consequently, the literature suggests that the relationship between the density of PE and its ESC susceptibility has been found to be significant. However, research has shown that relying solely on density as a predictor of ESC in PE when exposed to chemical substances is insufficient, and further studies should be conducted to investigate other parameters that contribute to ESC in PE. In addition, the review suggests that future research should focus on studying ESC resistance of newly developed Nano-filled PE composites or biodegradable PE variants, as these are future materials for storing chemical substances conveniently.Item Biopolymer composite materials in oil and gas sector(Hindawi Limited, 2024-02-21) Abdulrahman, Jibrilla; Ebhota, Williams S.; Tabakov, Pavel Y.In the oil and gas industry, the demand for alternative materials is rising due to corrosion and the desire to reduce costs through weight reduction. Polymer composites are gaining attention for their corrosion resistance, favourable strength-to-weight ratio, and cost-effectiveness. The biopolymer composite is projected to have an output worth $4.95 billion between 2021 and 2025 and growth at a 5.38% compound annual growth rate. This review focuses on exploring the potential of natural fibres as reinforcement for biofibre polymer composite pipes in oil and gas, highlighting their ecofriendliness, biodegradability, and cost-efficiency. The paper assesses biopolymer composite pipes’ development, challenges, and applications, particularly those using continuous basalt and banana fibres. While basalt fibre has found field applications, banana fibre-reinforced polymer composites are still in the early research stages. Despite significant oil and gas industry players already endorsing polymer composites, further research is needed for biopolymer composites to address challenges like compatibility, environmental impact, standardisation, long-term durability, production processes, and regulatory acceptance. Advancing biocomposite research and exploring new research opportunities are essential for engineering advancements and advanced materials.