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Innovative Energy-Efficient Solutions for Sustainable Development in Nigeria's Construction Industry Unegbu, Hyginus Chidiebere Onyekachi; Yawas, Danjuma S.; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
JURNAL MECHANICAL Vol 15 No 2 (2024): JURNAL MECHANICAL
Publisher : Fakultas Teknik, Universitas Lampung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.23960/mech.v15i2.5268

Abstract

The construction industry in Nigeria, like many developing countries, faces significant challenges and opportunities in adopting energy-efficient technologies. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of energy-efficient technologies in Nigeria's construction sector, examining adoption rates, perceived barriers, benefits, and recommendations for enhancing energy efficiency. Data were collected from 50 survey respondents and 15 in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including architects, engineers, policymakers, and construction managers. The findings reveal that solar panels, LED lighting, and energy-efficient HVAC systems are the most commonly adopted technologies. Regression analysis indicates that regulatory support and stakeholder awareness are significant predictors of technology adoption, while financial constraints, regulatory challenges, and a lack of technical expertise are primary barriers. The thematic analysis highlights the interplay between economic incentives, regulatory environments, and cultural attitudes in influencing adoption. Operational cost savings, enhanced environmental sustainability, and improved indoor environmental quality are identified as major benefits of adopting energy-efficient technologies. The study provides several recommendations, including strengthening regulatory frameworks, providing financial incentives, enhancing capacity-building programs, conducting public awareness campaigns, and improving supply chains for green materials. This research contributes to the understanding of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria and offers practical strategies for overcoming barriers to the adoption of energy-efficient technologies. The findings have important implications for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers aiming to promote sustainability in the construction sector.
Investigating Environmental Degradation of Banana-Sisal Epoxy Composites: Physical and Thermal Properties Unegbu, Hyginus Chidiebere Onyekachi; YAWAS, Danjuma S.; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
JURNAL MECHANICAL Vol 16 No 1 (2025): JURNAL MECHANICAL
Publisher : Fakultas Teknik, Universitas Lampung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.23960/mech.v16i1.5500

Abstract

This study evaluates the environmental degradation of banana-sisal epoxy composites, focusing on their physical and thermal properties after exposure to moisture, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and thermal aging. Alkali-treated and untreated composites were fabricated and tested for moisture absorption, tensile strength, flexural strength, thermogravimetric stability, and UV resistance. Results indicate that alkali-treated composites absorbed significantly less moisture (1.26%) than untreated composites (2.62%) after 120 hours of water immersion. Treated composites retained 87.6% of their initial tensile strength and 92% of their flexural strength, demonstrating superior mechanical performance compared to untreated composites. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed higher onset degradation temperatures (Tonset = 275°C) for treated composites compared to untreated composites (Tonset = 255°C) and better residual mass retention at 600°C. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed a higher glass transition temperature (Tg = 93°C) for treated composites, indicating improved thermal stability. After 100 hours of UV exposure, treated composites retained 82% of their tensile strength, compared to 68% for untreated composites. These findings demonstrate that alkali-treated banana-sisal epoxy composites possess enhanced resistance to environmental degradation, making them viable for use in construction, automotive, and marine industries. Future research should aim to optimize fiber treatments, develop hybrid and nanocomposites, and conduct long-term durability and sustainability assessments.
Smart Materials for Noise and Vibration Damping in High-Speed Rail Systems: A Comparative Analysis Unegbu, Hyginus Chidiebere Onyekachi; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
Makara Journal of Technology Vol. 28, No. 3
Publisher : UI Scholars Hub

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

Effective noise and vibration control remains a critical challenge in high-speed rail systems, directly influencing passenger comfort and the longevity of infrastructure. This study evaluated four advanced materials—piezoelectric materials, shape memory alloys (SMAs), magnetorheological (MR) fluids, and damping composites—focusing on their potential for mitigating noise and vibration in high-speed rail applications. A combination of experimental and simulation-based analyses was employed to assess these materials based on their noise reduction coefficient, vibration transmissibility ratio, thermal stability, and durability under varying environmental conditions. The findings revealed that damping composites and SMAs demonstrated superior performance, offering enhanced noise attenuation and vibration control compared with the other materials. Damping composites exhibited the highest noise reduction and stability across a wide frequency range, while SMAs demonstrated exceptional adaptive damping properties under fluctuating temperature conditions. In contrast, piezoelectric materials and MR fluids showed moderate performance, making them more suitable for secondary damping applications. This study identifies damping composites and SMAs as the most effective materials for primary noise and vibration control in high-speed rail systems. The findings provide valuable insights for material selection and integration in rail infrastructure, contributing to enhanced system performance, reduced maintenance costs, and compliance with stringent noise and vibration regulations.