Research Publications (Engineering and Built Environment)
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Item Infrastructure delivery management challenges in KwaZulu-Natal : a review of the operations and maintenance module(Seybold Publications, 2024-10-22) Hadebe, Weziwe; Armoed, Zakheeya; Mewomo, ModupeGlobally, governments have prioritized infrastructural policy and infrastructure development as the key to economic development. Efforts to accelerate effective infrastructural delivery in South Africa gave rise to the development of a government-wide tool called the Infrastructural Delivery Management System (IDMS). This was developed as a standardized approach for the planning, budgeting, procurement, operations, maintenance, decision-making and general management of South Africa’s infrastructural development across all tiers of government. The study explores the effectiveness of implementing the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) module of the IDMS in the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Focusing on the KZN province, the study utilizes a mixed method research approach. Articles were sourced from databases which included Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Governmental platforms. Peer-reviewed studies in the English language that were published between 2010 to 2024 were identified. Key search terms were infrastructure delivery management system, challenges, operations, maintenance, and efficiency that informed the literature review of the study. The study drew a sample of 133 participants responsible for infrastructural delivery using purposive sampling. Data was analyzed using thematic and content analysis. Findings suggest within the ecosystem of infrastructural development in the KZN province, the necessary IDMS capacity and capabilities do exist. However, the impact of different institutional roles, responsibilities and concurrent functions; in coordinating and implementing the IDMS, has influenced a growing backlog in public infrastructural delivery in KZN. This can be attributed to the failures in coordination resulting in the efficiencies of the O&M module. Through the resurrection of district maintenance workshops and decisive leadership in response to poor operational and maintenance plans, the application of IDMS may prove to be successful in alleviating infrastructure backlogs across all tiers of governance.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 Optimal design of laminated composite and nanocomposite structures using evolutionary optimization techniques : a survey(2024-09-05) Moyo, Ranaganai T.; Tabakov, Pavel YaroslavovichThe optimal design of laminated composite and nanocomposite (LCNC) structures stands at the forefront of materials engineering, offering the potential to revolutionize the development of advanced materials with superior mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. By tailoring LCNC structures to meet specific performance requirements, optimizing material usage, and exploring innovative design approaches, engineers can create lighter, more efficient, and environmentally friendly structures that excel in diverse applications. Many industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction are already using composite and nanocomposite materials to develop high-strength and lightweight structures. Thus, this survey delves into evolutionary optimization techniques as powerful tools for achieving optimal configurations in LCNC structures, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate technique for a given optimization problem. A strict selection method was employed to come up with this review paper, and only reputable literary sources were used. The research articles used in this survey were searched from top research databases such as ScienceDirect, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The articles published in the period, 2015 to 2024 were considered. Common design optimization problems such as buckling load, vibration, and weight and cost minimization were covered.Item A survey of home energy management systems and their efficacy in South Africa(IEEE, 2024-03-07) Madushele, Nkosinathi; Tabakov, PavelIn 2022, South Africa experienced a total of 3776 hours of power outages, commonly known as load shedding. This had a significant economic impact, with estimates from the South African Reserve Bank suggesting a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) loss ranging from 0.7% to 3.2%. To address this issue, various initiatives are currently being implemented, including the implementation of renewable energy projects, effective maintenance of existing infrastructure, and a proposal to introduce smart meters to address challenges related to demand-side management (DSM). The electricity market in South Africa is transforming, and this is leading to the emergence of potential technologies that can help address the aforementioned challenges. One such technology is the Home Energy Management System (HEMS). This paper surveys this technology and assesses its potential effectiveness in the South African context.Item An adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference scheme for defect detection and classification of solar Pv cells(Academy Publishing Center, 2024-09-12) Moyo, Ranganai Tawanda; Dewa, Mendon; Romero, Héctor Felipe Mateo; Gómez, Victor Alonso; Aragonés, Jose Ignacio Morales; Hernández-Callejo, LuisThis research paper presents an innovative approach for defect detection and classification of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells using the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) technique. As solar energy continues to be a vital component of the global renewable energy mix, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of PV systems is paramount. Detecting and classifying defects in PV cells are crucial steps toward ensuring optimal performance and longevity of solar panels. Traditional defect detection and classification methods often face challenges in providing precise and adaptable solutions to this complex problem. In this study the researchers pose an ANFIS-based scheme that combines the strengths of neural networks and fuzzy logic to accurately identify and classify various types of defects in solar PV cells. The adaptive learning mechanism of ANFIS enables the model to continuously adapt to changes in operating conditions ensuring robust and reliable defect detection capabilities. The ANFIS model was developed and implemented using MATLAB and a high predicting accuracy was achieved.Item Development of a prioritized traffic light control system for emergency vehicles(Institute of Advanced Engineering and Science (IAES), 2024-10-08) Halleluyah Oluwatobi, Aworinde; Abidemi Emmanuel Adeniyi; Segun Adebayo; Adeniji, Faith; Aroba, Oluwasegun JuliusThis research presents a model for an adaptive traffic signal control system aimed at improving urban traffic regulation. It dynamically adjusts signal timing based on vehicle volume at intersections, prioritizing emergency vehicles by allowing them immediate passage. Utilizing Arduino coding, the system controls traffic light intensity according to the traffic flow, enhancing road safety and efficiency. This innovative approach not only facilitates faster clearance for emergency services without human intervention but also reduces congestion and accident rates. This research creates a model for a prioritized traffic signal control system. When the vehicular volume at the intersection varies, the signal time alters autonomously. It identifies theambulance/emergency vehicles and allows the green light for emergency vehicles like ambulances, and fire engines. This approach may be used to detect traffic accidents and infractions of automobile spiral motions. When erected on the road, the entire system allows for quick traffic clearing for rescue vehicles without requiring a policeman. The system's design eliminates the need for sensors or radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, simplifying traffic management. Simulations validate that emergency vehicle travel time is significantly reduced, proving the system's effectiveness in streamlining urban traffic flows.Item Geopolymer cement in pavement applications : bridging sustainability and performance(MDPI AG, 2024-06) Ikotun, Jacob O.; Aderinto, Gbenga E.; Madirisha, Makungu M.; Katte, Valentine Y.Sustainability and the quest for a more robust construction material cannot be divorced from each other. While Portland cement has revolutionized the construction sector, its environmental toll, particularly in greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, cannot be ignored. Addressing this dilemma requires embracing alternatives like geopolymer cement/geopolymer binder (GPC/GPB). Over the last few decades, considerable strides have been achieved in advancing GPC as a sustainable construction material, including its utilization in pavement construction. Despite these advances, gaps still exist in GPC optimal potential in pavement construction, as most studies have concentrated on specific attributes rather than on a comprehensive evaluation. To bridge this gap, this review adopts a novel, holistic approach by integrating environmental impacts with performance metrics. To set the stage, this review first delves into the geopolymer concept from a chemistry perspective, providing an essential broad overview for exploring GPC’s innovations and implications in pavement applications. The findings reveal that GPC not only significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption compared to Portland cement but also enhances pavement performance. Further, GPC concrete pavement exhibits superior mechanical, durability, and thermal properties to ensure its long-term performance in pavement applications. However, challenges to GPC utilization as a pavement material include the variability of raw materials, the need for suitable hardeners, the lack of standardized codes and procedures, cost competitiveness, and limited field data. Despite these challenges, the process of geopolymerization presents GPC as a sustainable material for pavement construction, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 9, 11, and 12.Item Renewable energy technologies in the global south : Sub-Saharan Africa trends and perspectives(IJETAE Publication House, 2022-01-01) Ebhota, Williams S.; Tabakov, Pavel Y.Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) and other parts of the Global South are richly endowed with renewable energy resources (RERs) that are grossly untapped. The integration of these resources, such as hydro, wind, solar, and biomass will facilitate the desired net zero-CO2-emissions economy. If these RERs are adequately harnessed, the perennial power supply challenges in the region will be resolved, and the negative power supply narrative changed. Presently, a greater percentage of the population without access to electricity live in the Global South with SSA having the highest share. This inadequacy has been attributed to many factors, which include lack of connection to the national grid; lack of adequate technical capacities to design and manufacture efficient power generation and transmission components and systems; insufficient funds; unreliable, limited, and poor energy data. A comprehensive study of the renewable energy potential (REP) and technologies in the Global South is imperative to the management, regulation, and policies concerning energy, in this era of energy transition (ET). This study presents - a summary of REP of SSA; statistical analysis of the proposed and installed RE capacity across the region; and discussion on the pressing need for renewable energy integration (REI) to mitigate climate change. In addition, to develop RE schemes to facilitate greater access to clean, affordable, and adequate energy supply. Actualization of the integration of RERs into the national portfolio will promote CO2 reduction and improve the socio-economic benefits to the populace in both rural and urban areas of SSA and the Global South generally. Keywords— Renewable energy system; Net-zero-CO2 emissions, renewable energy in Global South; hydro; wind; solar; biomassItem The application and benefits of emerging digital technologies for Industry 4.0(2024-05) Govender, Nevek; Olanrewaju, Oludolapo A.Industry 4.0 technology advancement in recent years has enabled organizations to capitalize on new processes and tools towards making their businesses more profitable and efficient. 4IR Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Condition Monitoring and Internet of Things have been at the forefront of the digital revolution and have transformed the way organizations do business. However, these complex technologies come with many challenges such as startup costs, lack of knowledge experts as well as the limited technology foundation for both business owners, as well as their employees. Therefore, this study looks at the current knowledge of Industry 4.0 from individuals in the industry, which will provide information on the current trends as well as possible knowledge gaps. The research also explores the benefits of Industry 4.0 technologies by using machine learning technology to elaborate on how we can enhance organizations’ efficiencies. The purpose of this study is to contribute towards the successful implementation of Industry 4.0 and provide encouragement for organizations to start their digital revolution. The research follows both a qualitative and quantitative analysis process. The qualitative data is analyzed from a survey of individuals which enables us to dissect and better identify the current trends, and possible knowledge gaps whilst the quantitative data is analyzed using machine learning software to highlight the potential that can be attained if organizations decide to implement these types of technologies. A content and grounded theory method was used to analyze the qualitative data, as the feedback from the interviewees was constantly reviewed and compared with each other whilst also comparing that to the initial hypothesis statements. It was seen that current trend is that individuals in the industry are excited and are aware of Industry 4.0, but there are still some challenges such as legacy machines, return of investment and knowledge gaps. For the quantitative data, a thematic analysis was used, in the form of machine learning software, to identify patterns in the results and interpret them in a way that can be understood better. From the analysis, it was seen that the machine learning software has a positive impact as the software was able to identify the highest points of failure as well as the type of failure which occurred for a machine. The timeline of failure was also deduced and therefore the organization would be able to put measures in place to restrict these failures from happening. The research provides great benefit for future researchers as well as organizations on topics relating to Industry 4.0 towards connecting the power of the technologies to create a smooth transition within the workplace. The survey analysis offers a better understanding of the current trends in the industry, and the research in general provides a foundation towards the understanding of Industry 4.0, and provides valuable insight on the greater role that new digital technologies play towards creating a better future for organizations.Item Management of e-waste in the South African construction industry : a literature review(IEOM Society International, 2023) Nkosi, Thalente Lungile; Adedeji, Jacob; Jele, Nkosinathi; Hadebe, PhumzileIn complacence with the ever-growing industrialization of different sectors, more specifically the construction sector, electrical and electronic waste management is becoming a global challenge in the construction industry posing significant environmental and health challenges. E-waste, if managed effectively, will release significant economic, resource and ecological benefits. Most of the construction companies have no information about electronic waste management, electronic devices that come from the seller while damaged are sent back to the supplier for exchange. Electronics that could not be repaired are sold to scrap yards and some are sent directly into the dumpsite, however, there were some electronic wastes stored inside the premises and others stored at the back of the premises directly into the ground, which decomposes and possibly affect the environment. The construction companies feel that it is the government's responsibility to provide money for electronic waste management otherwise there is no way they could manage e-waste in their business because it will not be profitable or else the users must take care of their electronic waste. The secondary data was collected through a detailed review of extant literature. In contrast, the primary data was collected using a qualitative method through interviewing the construction professionals. Twelve industry professionals were invited to participate in an interview but ten were present and able to participate, representing an 83% response rate. This paper seeks to assess how electrical and electronic waste are managed in the South African construction industry.