Al-Furat Journal of Innovations in Mechanical and Sustainable Energy Engineering
About the Journal Al-Furat Journal of Innovations in Mechanical and Sustainable Energy Engineering (FJIMSE) : is open access, peer-reviewed, double-blinded international scientific journal published by Najaf Technical Institute / Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University (ATU). The FJIMSE Journal publishes four issues (March, June, September, and December) , one volume annually of peer-reviewed scientific research articles. FJIMSE scope covers a wide range of topics such as; Thermal mechanics, fluid mechanics, renewable energy, Alternative fuels, improved and optimized combustion systems, solar and wind energy technology, nano and PCM technology, and geothermal applications.
Heat Transfer Enhancement in Latent Thermal Energy Storage Systems Using Metal Foam, Fins, and Nanoparticles: Review.
People mostly like Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) systems because they can store a lot of energy while keeping the temperature pretty much the same. Still, their performance isn't great because most phase-change materials (PCMs) don't conduct heat very well. In the last few years, a lot of research has tried to fix this problem by using three passive methods: adding fins, using open-cell metal foams, and mixing the PCM with nanoparticles. Metal foams usually make things better the most. They make a path for heat to flow through the PCM all the time, which makes the material melt much faster—sometimes by 40–80%. Copper foams usually work a little better than aluminium foams. Graphite foams, on the other hand, can speed up the melting process and make the temperature more even because they have a higher thermal conductivity (up to 25–200 W/m•K). When you lower the porosity from about 95% to 90%, the melted part also goes up by about 8–12%. However, changing the pore density from 15 to 30 PPI doesn't make a big difference. Fins also make things look better. Depending on the shape and placement, circular and spiral fins can cut the time it takes to melt by 30% to 70%. Adding small amounts of nanoparticles (usually less than 2 wt%) to PCM increases its thermal conductivity by about 10–46%. But higher concentrations can cause problems like higher viscosity and lower stability. Overall, metal foams still have the most promise, fins are a quick and cheap way to make things better, and nanoparticles can help a little bit as long as their concentration stays stable. These results also show that there are still problems to solve and that using more than one improvement method might be helpful for future LHTES designs.
PCM · Fins . Nanopartical. Metal foams ·
Copyright (c) 2025 Al-Furat Journal of Innovations in Mechanical and Sustainable Energy Engineering https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
INNOVATIVE HORIZONS IN SQUARE DUCTS HEAT TRANSFER ENHANCEMENT: PASSIVE,
Heat transfer enhancement in square ducts forms the core of modern thermal engineering with a significant impact on the efficiency of heat exchangers, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and renewable energy equipment. The review encompasses both active and passive techniques of augmentation, their mechanism, applications, and comparative effectiveness. Active techniques—such as acoustic, electric, and magnetic actuation—improve heat transfer by developing flow instabilities and vortices but at the cost of employing intricate systems and extra energy. Conversely, passive configurations like ribs, baffles, twisted tapes, and winglets are simpler, energy-efficient, and increase turbulence responsible for degrading boundary layers, increasing the Nusselt number. The study is concerned with the effect of the geometrical parameters on the thermal and hydraulic performance, with respect to the trade-off between enhanced heat transfer and pressure loss. Optimal rib height ratios (e/H = 0.2–0.3) and pitch ratios (0.75–1.0) were determined to yield optimal performance, generating high heat transfer at reasonable pressure losses. The review also explores hybrid solutions that combine passive techniques with nanofluids to achieve synergistic improvements. Finally, the importance of vortex generation and combining advanced materials with smart optimization strategies are put forward as viable routes to efficient thermal management systems.
Heat transfer enhancement; Passive methods; Active methods; Pitch ratio; Rib height
Decoding Climate Change: A Comprehensive Statistical Insight into Temperature Anomalies in Iraq and Its Neighboring Countries
This study applies advanced statistical techniques, including the Mann-Kendall Trend Test and ARIMA forecasting, to validate and predict temperature anomalies across Iraq and its neighboring countries (2014–2024). Findings confirm a statistically significant warming trend (p < 0.00000005) across all nations, with Syria (1.02°C) and Turkey (0.97°C) experiencing the highest anomalies. GIS-based spatial analysis highlights regional disparities, identifying climate-vulnerable zones. The persistent rise in temperature anomalies correlates with worsening water scarcity, desertification, and extreme weather events, including prolonged droughts and heatwaves. Iraq’s peak anomaly (1.48°C) has exacerbated heat stress, agricultural decline, and reduced river inflows, while Kuwait and Saudi Arabia struggle to maintain critical infrastructure under record-breaking temperatures exceeding 50°C. These climate shifts pose severe risks to water availability, food security, and energy demand, necessitating urgent policy interventions. Key recommendations include enhanced water resource management, climate-adaptive agriculture, and renewable energy expansion. If left unaddressed, rising temperatures could destabilize the region, increasing socio-economic vulnerabilities and escalating resource conflicts. This study underscores the need for cross-border collaboration and sustainable adaptation policies to mitigate the long-term impacts of climate change in the Middle East.
Climate Change, Extreme Heatwaves, Middle East Warming, Temperature Anomalies, Water Scarcity, Weather Variability.
A REVIEW ON DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES USED FOR IMPROVEMENT THE PERFORMANCE OF DOUBLE PASS SOLAR AIR HEATER
Energy is the cornerstone of life and a critical driver of national growth, modernization, and economic development. As the global shift toward renewable energy intensifies to address environmental concerns and rising energy demands, solar air heaters (SAHs) have emerged as key devices for space heating and thermal applications. However, their low thermal efficiency remains a major limitation. This paper reviews enhancement techniques to improve SAH performance, including the use of extended surfaces, corrugated and perforated absorber plates, artificial roughness, and jet impingement. Studies show that integrating fins and baffles significantly boosts thermal efficiency in both single-pass and double-pass configurations. Corrugated plates also enhance heat transfer, while artificial roughness—especially with non-circular, rectangular, and equilateral ribs—improves thermal-hydraulic performance, particularly when combined with jet impingement.
Analysing and Mitigating the Impact of Partial Shedding on Photovoltaic Module Efficiency: Simulation-Based Optimization Techniques for Enhanced Power Output
<a title="Partial shading is a persistent challenge in photovoltaic (PV) systems, causing significant efficiency losses due to uneven irradiance distribution across PV modules. This research, titled “Analyzing and Mitigating the Impact of Partial Shading on Photovoltaic Module Efficiency: Simulation-Based Optimization Techniques for Enhanced Power Output,” investigates the effects of partial shading and explores mitigation strategies using advanced simulation and optimization methods. A MATLAB/Simulink simulation environment was employed to model a PV module with three parallel strings of 20 series-connected cells, each integrated with bypass diodes. Shading scenarios were simulated by applying irradiance levels of 1000 W/m², 600 W/m², and 300 W/m² to the respective strings. The resulting current-voltage (I-V) and power-voltage (P-V) characteristics were analyzed, focusing on power output, efficiency, and the challenges of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) under shaded conditions. Advanced optimization techniques, including Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), were proposed to improve the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP) detection. The simulation results revealed that partial shading caused a substantial power reduction, with the GMPP (104 W) being 34% lower than the expected maximum power of 158 W. The P-V curve displayed multiple local maxima, creating challenges for conventional MPPT algorithms in locating the true GMPP. Bypass diodes mitigated some power losses but were insufficient for complete optimization. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of integrating adaptive optimization techniques like ACO into PV system design to enhance efficiency under partial shading conditions. By improving power extraction, these methods can significantly boost the reliability and performance of PV systems in real-world applications. These findings provide a solid foundation for developing more resilient and efficient renewable energy systems. " href="https://fjimse.atu.edu.iq/index.php/fjimse/Partial shading is a persistent challenge in photovoltaic (PV) systems, causing significant efficiency losses due to uneven irradiance distribution across PV modules. This research, titled “Analyzing and Mitigating the Impact of Partial Shading on Photovoltaic Module Efficiency: Simulation-Based Optimization Techniques for Enhanced Power Output,” investigates the effects of partial shading and explores mitigation strategies using advanced simulation and optimization methods. A MATLAB/Simulink simulation environment was employed to model a PV module with three parallel strings of 20 series-connected cells, each integrated with bypass diodes. Shading scenarios were simulated by applying irradiance levels of 1000 W/m², 600 W/m², and 300 W/m² to the respective strings. The resulting current-voltage (I-V) and power-voltage (P-V) characteristics were analyzed, focusing on power output, efficiency, and the challenges of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) under shaded conditions. Advanced optimization techniques, including Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), were proposed to improve the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP) detection. The simulation results revealed that partial shading caused a substantial power reduction, with the GMPP (104 W) being 34% lower than the expected maximum power of 158 W. The P-V curve displayed multiple local maxima, creating challenges for conventional MPPT algorithms in locating the true GMPP. Bypass diodes mitigated some power losses but were insufficient for complete optimization. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of integrating adaptive optimization techniques like ACO into PV system design to enhance efficiency under partial shading conditions. By improving power extraction, these methods can significantly boost the reliability and performance of PV systems in real-world applications. These findings provide a solid foundation for developing more resilient and efficient renewable energy systems.">Partial shading is a persistent challenge in photovoltaic (PV) systems, causing significant efficiency losses due to uneven irradiance distribution across PV modules. This research, titled “Analyzing and Mitigating the Impact of Partial Shading on Photovoltaic Module Efficiency: Simulation-Based Optimization Techniques for Enhanced Power Output,” investigates the effects of partial shading and explores mitigation strategies using advanced simulation and optimization methods. A MATLAB/Simulink simulation environment was employed to model a PV module with three parallel strings of 20 series-connected cells, each integrated with bypass diodes. Shading scenarios were simulated by applying irradiance levels of 1000 W/m², 600 W/m², and 300 W/m² to the respective strings. The resulting current-voltage (I-V) and power-voltage (P-V) characteristics were analyzed, focusing on power output, efficiency, and the challenges of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) under shaded conditions. Advanced optimization techniques, including Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), were proposed to improve the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP) detection. The simulation results revealed that partial shading caused a substantial power reduction, with the GMPP (104 W) being 34% lower than the expected maximum power of 158 W. The P-V curve displayed multiple local maxima, creating challenges for conventional MPPT algorithms in locating the true GMPP. Bypass diodes mitigated some power losses but were insufficient for complete optimization. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of integrating adaptive optimization techniques like ACO into PV system design to enhance efficiency under partial shading conditions. By improving power extraction, these methods can significantly boost the reliability and performance of PV systems in real-world applications. These findings provide a solid foundation for developing more resilient and efficient renewable energy systems.
AUTOMATIC PATH PLANNING FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES(UAVs) IN DYNAMIC AND UNCERTAIN ENVIRONMENT
As Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) continue to play a vital role in diverse applications, the demand for robust and adaptive path planning algorithms becomes increasingly imperative. This study presents an innovative approach for automatic path planning tailored for UAVs navigating dynamic and uncertain environments. The proposed algorithm integrates a Random Tree structure with a Limited Tree Depth strategy, aiming to strike a balance between exploration and exploitation in complex scenarios. This is achieved via the development of an adaptive path planning algorithm, for addressing of dynamic obstacle avoidance, evaluation of robust handling of uncertainty, ensuring of real time decision-making, the utilization of random tree with limited tree depth, and the deployment of the developed algorithm in the simulation setting. The methodology encompasses the design, implementation, and evaluation of the path planning algorithm. Leveraging insights from the literature, the algorithm integrates mechanisms for dynamic obstacle avoidance and uncertainty handling. The limited tree depth approach optimizes the exploration-exploitation trade-off, ensuring real-time adaptability. The key mathematical relationships include steering the tree expansion, predicting dynamic obstacle movement, adapting to uncertainty through probability distributions, optimizing real-time decision-making, and dynamically adjusting the limited tree depth. The algorithm is rigorously evaluated within diverse simulation scenarios, featuring dynamic obstacles, uncertain terrains, and complex environments. Quantitative metrics such as path length and computation time, along with qualitative assessments of collision avoidance and adaptability, are employed for comprehensive analysis. The result presents the superiority of the improved random tree with limited tree over the traditional random tree in high convergence and generalization of data. The study contributes a novel path planning algorithm specifically tailored for UAVs in dynamic and uncertain environments. Results demonstrate the algorithm's efficacy in achieving adaptive trajectories while ensuring real-time responsiveness. The convergence analysis revealed that the IRRT exhibits a faster convergence rate, surpassing the RRT by 1.4 seconds. This signifies the algorithm's efficiency in achieving super-optimal obstacle avoidance missions.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Automatic path planning for UAVs, Dynamic obstacle avoidance in UAV path planning, Improved random tree with limited tree algorithm and Traditional random tree.
A Comprehensive Review of Thermal Performance Enhancement Strategies in Solar Air Collectors
A Solar Air Collector (SAC) constitutes a fundamental component of solar-thermal air systems, functioning by absorbing solar radiation and converting it into thermal energy to heat air as the working fluid. This study provides a comprehensive and structured review of the three primary configurations of SACs: flat-plate SACs (FPSAC), evacuated tube SACs (EVTSAC), and concentrated SACs. The development of SACs has consistently prioritized high thermal efficiency, minimal heat losses, and structural simplicity. This paper synthesizes various enhancement strategies employed to improve SAC performance, including advanced surface modification techniques, novel absorber materials, optimized airflow configurations, embedded heat transfer elements, and hybrid systems incorporating energy storage or photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) integration. Comparative performance assessments among SAC variants reveal that FPSACs employing grooved or half-conical absorbers achieve a performance evaluation factor of approximately 2. EVTSACs integrated with micro-heat pipe arrays can reach thermal efficiencies up to 73%. Meanwhile, concentrated SACs—particularly those employing linear concentration and open Brayton cycles—can attain outlet air temperatures up to 350 °C, with corresponding thermal efficiencies of around 75%. The findings underscore the importance of integrating high-performance heat transfer components in future SAC design optimizations. The study concludes with research directions to address current limitations and explore emerging technologies.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF DOUBLE PASS SOLAR AIR HEATER BY USING DIFFERENT NANO-MATERIALS
Solar energy is used to heat air, which is then used in greenhouses and to dry crops. Solar air heaters (SAHs) can be made more efficient by employing a new design for the aluminum absorber plate. This solar air heater was compared against a flat absorber plate coated in black paint mixed with titanium oxide (TiO₂), aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), and copper oxide (CuO) at a 3% concentration. It can help with continuous attempts to improve thermal efficiency and convective heat transfer. This study's analysis is based on experimental data, in which the performance of a double-pass solar air heater design was tested in three examples boosted with nanomaterials at air mass flow rates ranging from 0.05 kg/s to 0.035 kg/s. Based on the findings of the experiments, using nanomaterials containing 3% copper oxide (CuO) is the best instance, with a maximum efficiency of 60.1% at a mass flow rate of 0.05 kg/s. The thermal efficiency of 3% copper oxide ranged from 27.6% to 60.1%, titanium oxide from 30.2% to 55.5%, and aluminum oxide from 30.1% to 55.8%, respectively. When copper oxide was used instead of aluminum oxide, the efficiency increased by 4.6%, whereas titanium oxide increased by 4.3%.
FOUNDATION and FUNCTIONING of HEAT-SINK SOLUTIONS and COOLING APPROACHES
The fast expansion of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) requires data centers to operate as essential facilities for handling large volumes of data processing and management functions. The heat dissipation system represents a significant part of data centers because it protects electronic components through heat dissipation to guarantee their reliable performance. This exploration examines cooling approaches including air systems and liquid instruments for their implementation as heat sinks for electronics. Using finned heat sinks for air cooling represents the dominant method because of its stripped-down design and economical value. Computational methods through liquid cooling that incorporate nanofluids boost heat transfer abilities yet demand expensive implementation and technical complexity. The analysis reviews different heat sink structures such as plate fin and pin fin and microchannel systems to evaluate thermal performance alongside mechanisms affecting heat transfer efficiency including geometry details and fluid movement dynamics and material choice choices. The article explores how nanofluids and phase change materials (PCMs) provide enhancements for heat management performance. Unlike previous reviews that focus on isolated cooling technologies, this comprehensive analysis integrates both traditional and emerging solutions while considering their practical implementation constraints in data center environments. The collected data demonstrates that air cooling remains prevalent but liquid cooling systems and innovative materials including nanofluids and PCMs deliver superior thermal performance specifically for powerful electronic devices, ultimately suggesting a hybrid approach may offer the optimal balance between cooling efficiency and operational costs.
Phase change materials (PCM), nanofluids, heat sink.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
USING SOME TECHNIQUES TO IMPACT ENERGY SAVING FOR BUILDING LOCATED IN HOT CLIMATE (BAGHDAD) / REVIEW STUDY
The built environment is a significant contributor to global energy consumption, with heating, cooling, and lighting accounting for a substantial portion of energy use in buildings. As the demand for energy-efficient structures grows, the integration of advanced design strategies and materials has become critical in reducing energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort. This article explores the effects of various techniques including building design, material selection, ventilation strategies, cooling load management, insulation, shading, cool paints, glazing, and phase-change materials (PCM) on energy efficiency in buildings. Each factor is analyzed for its impact on reducing energy demand, improving thermal performance, and enhancing sustainability. Building design and orientation play a pivotal role in optimizing natural light and airflow, while material selection influences thermal mass and insulation properties. Ventilation strategies, both natural and mechanical, are examined for their ability to reduce cooling loads, and insulation is evaluated for its effectiveness in minimizing heat transfer. Shading devices and cool paints are discussed for their role in mitigating solar heat gain, while advanced glazing technologies are assessed for their ability to balance day lighting and thermal insulation. Additionally, the use of PCM is highlighted for its potential to store and release thermal energy, thereby stabilizing indoor temperatures. By comparing these factors, this study identifies the most effective strategies for reducing energy consumption in buildings, offering insights for architects, engineers, and policymakers to prioritize solutions that align with sustainability goals.
Energy saiving , insulation , sahding , glazing , PCMs.
Assessment of Carbon Intensity Dynamics in Electricity Generation A Comparative Analysis of Middle Eastern Countries (2013-2023)
The Middle East, a region heavily reliant on fossil fuels, faces unique challenges in transitioning to low-carbon energy systems. This study investigates the carbon intensity trends of electricity generation across five key Middle Eastern countries—Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iraq, Iran, and Turkey—between 2013 and 2023. Using a robust statistical approach, the analysis highlights significant disparities in carbon intensity, influenced by varying energy policies, economic conditions, and technological advancements. Turkey emerged as a regional leader, achieving a notable reduction in carbon intensity from 479.51 gCO₂/kWh in 2013 to 453.97 gCO₂/kWh in 2023, a 5.3% decline attributed to its investments in renewable energy. Conversely, Saudi Arabia maintained the highest levels, with an average carbon intensity of 695.82 gCO₂/kWh, reflecting a continued reliance on fossil fuels despite diversification efforts under Vision 2030. Kuwait and Iran displayed stability in their carbon intensity, averaging 650.95 gCO₂/kWh and 645.44 gCO₂/kWh, respectively, while Iraq exhibited fluctuations, peaking at 681.08 gCO₂/kWh in 2017 before declining to 661.50 gCO₂/kWh in 2023. An ANOVA test confirmed significant differences among the countries (F = 349.69, p < 0.0001), emphasizing the impact of country-specific factors. These findings underscore the urgent need for accelerated energy transitions, regional collaboration, and policy reforms. Turkey’s achievements highlight the transformative potential of renewable energy investments, offering a model for other nations to follow. By adopting strategic policies and fostering regional cooperation, Middle Eastern countries can significantly reduce their carbon intensity and contribute meaningfully to global climate mitigation efforts.
Carbon intensity, Climate mitigation, Electricity generation, Energy policy, Renewable energy.
A REVIEW ON DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES USED FOR IMPROVEMENT HEAT TRANSFER IN SQUARE DUCT
The improvement of heat transfer along square ducts is essential for optimum thermal management in a variety of mechanical applications. The present review investigates the impact of using baffles, ribs, and tapes to increase heat transfer efficiency in square ducts and the design parameter which also play critical role to improve heat transfer such as inclination angle, blockage ratio, pitch ratio, Etc. Ribs, tapes and baffles all of them placed in different arrangements such as in-line, staggered and systematic arrangement with various technique used like adding perforation, gaps, wavy surface. This review utilizes both of experimental and numerical methods to evaluate the performance of each technique, either alone or in a combination. Empirical examination includes different rib configurations, baffle placements, and tape types. The findings reveal that gaps and holes enhance heat transfer and design parameters like attack angle has various of optimal values depended on type of obstructive where it estimates in baffles a value to 90° while in tapes and ribs are equal to 45°.
Attack angle; Obstacles; Blockage ratio; Pitch ratio.
Effect of adding nanomaterial using Ruta oil methyl esters on engine performance and combustion emissions
The focus on alternative fuels has increased greatly because of the diminishing availability of petroleum resources and the rising worries about the environment. Biodiesel, a sustainable fuel source, has the capacity to serve as a feasible alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The latest progress in nanotechnology has enabled the development of fuel additives made of nanoparticles that can be used in internal combustion engines. Studies conducted in the past have demonstrated that these additives have the ability to improve the performance of the engine. In this innovative research, we explored the impact of adding aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3) to a fuel mixture consisting of 20% Ruta biodiesel and 80% diesel, aiming to evaluate enhancements in performance and decreased emissions. In our experiments, we utilized a diesel engine with a single cylinder and four strokes, running steadily at 1500 revolutions per minute. The RB20 mixture underwent exposure to a 35 ppm concentration of Al2O3 nanoparticles through the utilization of an Ultrasonicator. The findings show that the brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) was enhanced when using the DF80+RB20 mixture. In comparison to regular diesel fuel, the brake thermal efficiency (BTE) saw an increase when using a blend of 80% diesel fuel and 20% rapeseed biodiesel. The emissions, a key element affected by the type of fuel used, were reduced for all mixed fuels in comparison to pure diesel fuel (DF). The presence of nanoparticles also played a role in lowering the rate at which combustion pressure increased, leading to a decrease in combustion. These findings suggest that the DF8 0+R B2 0 blend is suitable for diesel engines without the need for alterations.
Ruta, Castor methyl ester, biodiesel, Al2O3 Nano fuel, Engine Performance
Increase solar cell efficiency for hybrid photovoltaic thermal- thermoelectric (PVT-TE) systems. Review study
Conventional energy sources lead to pollution and global warming, driving the need for renewable energy technologies. This review study focuses on the integration of photovoltaic (PV), thermal (T) and thermoelectric (TE) technologies to enhance the overall efficiency of solar energy conversion systems. The primary objectives of the system design are to identify suitable materials and components to improve heat conversion efficiency, address thermal management issues that limit the performance of conventional PV systems, and explore the synergistic benefits of combining these technologies. Overall, this article summarizes a series of optimization strategies for photovoltic (pv) ,thermal (t) thermoelectric materials, providing valuable references and inspiration for researchers in the field, with the aim of further advancing the science of materials
Drag Reduction and Corrosion Resistance of Aluminum Alloys with Superhydrophobic Coatings in Fluid Systems: A Review
Superhydrophobic surfaces (SHS) have received great attention in recent years due to their unique ability to reduce drag and improve corrosion resistance, which is of great importance in many industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine transportation. Superhydrophobic coatings mimic natural surfaces, providing solutions to improve the performance and life of materials. This paper reviews different methods for preparing superhydrophobic surfaces, their theoretical foundations, and their applications in protecting materials from corrosion and reducing drag. Several methods such as molecular gel process, electrodeposition, spray coating, and electrolytic method for forming these surfaces on aluminum alloys were explored, with each method presenting distinct advantages and challenges. The theoretical foundations of wettability were also discussed, including Young's equation, Wenzel and Cassie-Baxter models. The sliding effect that reduces friction through the formation of air pockets on the surface was highlighted as a major mechanism in reducing drag. The experimental results showed that superhydrophobic coatings not only improve corrosion resistance but also reduce drag, leading to improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact in various applications.
A Review on ImprovementTechniques of Freshwater Productivity for Solar Distillation Systems
Solar desalination is known as a method used to turn brackish into potable water owing to high population density and automation, consumable water demand continues to increase. and the system used for desalination is known as a solar still. The main types of solar stills include active and passive solar stills fresh water is obtained from passive solar stills without the use of high-grade energy(electrical energy). several researchers framed mathematical expressions, performed experiments, and confirmed the outcome of the different types of solar stills This paper analyzed the methodologies used in previous years to enhance the efficiency of active and passive solar stills. using types of absorbent materials, reflectors, and a sun tracking device is introduced the solar energy intensity is maximum and thus improves absorption production by 380%, an overall increase in efficiency of 2% will increase production to around 22% in some research, Through this study, The results showed that the use of wire nets and sand in the container increases the daily output of freshwater by about 3.1%, 13.7% in winter, about 3.4% and 14.1% in summer. It also turns out that the productivity of distillation is 20 L / m2 over the inverter compared to 5 kg / m2 in the conventional system. Results also show that the efficiency of the solar still is affected by the kinds, design, and heat storage system.
Solar Desalination, Solar Concentrator, External Reflector
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
Experimental Investigation on Performance of Fresnel lens Concentrator in Iraqi Climate
This work an experimental study to use extremes sunrays temperature using a container tank receiver with a Fresnel lens concentrator. Cubical steel water tank (20 cm each side) which was manufactured with different metal finned cover, namely steel and aluminum, are used. The tank was placed in the focus of the lens to study the distribution of temperature in the tank. The Fresnel lens concentrator is controlled to track the sunlight and maintain the focal stationery. The experimental tests are performed with local weather conditions in Najaf city/Iraq. The results indicated that the highest focal temperature recorded was 258.6 ° C when the ambient temperature was 24.6 ° C and the solar radiation was 1251 W/m2 of the steel finned cover of the container. The results showed that the Fresnel lens concentrator can be implemented for melting phase change material (PCM) or heating water applications.
Solar Energy, Fresnel lens, Solar Tracking System
Indoor Test Conditions of Thermal Collector Channel Using Water as a Working Fluid to Enhance the Electrical and Thermal Efficiency of the PV / T System
The hybrid (PV/T) system or photovoltaic thermal collector generates the electrical and thermal energy simultaneously. The main objective of this study was to design, manufacture and evaluate the work of the PV/T system as a thermal collector to enhance heat transfer, by using (distilled water) as a working fluid used to cool (PV/T) system. The experimental setup of the system was constructed, using the optimal water guides for each configuration and was evaluated using the numerical results. thermal absorber collector of (PV/T) system is the box made of a heat-insulating material (foam), inside which contains a water guides that is operated by a CNC machine used to distributed of liquid inside of PV/T system, then installed later in the back surface of the photoelectric panel using epoxy wax, here, designed the thermal absorber collector channel to be within the geometrical shape of the PV panel to observe the rules placed to install the PV panels previously prepared. Results obtained from the numerical analysis indicated that the rectangular channel with round water guides, linear distribution [d = 10mm, h = 3mm, n = 66] has the best design used to heat transfer. The results showed that the thermal aggregation channel with round fluid flow guides, at linear distribution, had a 14.595% PV/T for maximum electrical efficiency and a 94.514% PV/T for maximum thermal efficiency for experimental results, where the total efficiency increase with increasing the flow rate, for all experience the was the volume flow rate is 5L/min minute and solar radiation was 1000 w/m2.
PV/T System, PV Module, (Electrical, Thermal) Efficiency, Thermal Collector Channel
Nano-Fluids as a Coolant for Automotive Engine Radiators: Review Study
Low-efficiency crossflow heat exchangers which are used as radiators in the automotive sector may cause engine damage. Nano-fluids are ideal coolants due to their high heat diffusion coefficient and can be added to almost any process that requires a fast reaction to thermal performance, such as the automobile. The nanofluid's thermal conductivity is greater than that of the base fluid such as water and ethylene glycol and can achieve more than 40% and enhance the heat transfer coefficient by more than 50%. The best results for heat transfer were to use carbon nanoparticles with base fluid. This article reviews previous research investigating the effect of nano-fluid in automotive radiators in which nanoparticles such as Al2O3, CuO, TiO2, and MWCNT are used. The preparation and application of nano-fluid and measurement of thermal properties and the effect of volume fraction on efficiency are discussed. The review also is focused on the numerical and experimental studies of previous work related to nano-fluid performance in automobile radiators.
Nano-Fluids, Automotive Radiator, Engine Coolant, Heat Transfer Coefficient
Solar Still Productivity Improvement Techniques and Recent Advancements: Review Study
The growing demand for freshwater is a challenging task facing human society due to the rapid rise of the global population. Solar distillation emerged as an economical, environmentally friendly practical technology to produce freshwater. Solar still is a proven technology to produce clean water and removing dissolved and solid impurities as well as chemical hazardous, organic bacteria, and non-organic contaminants. Rural and remote regions that suffer from impure water can beneficiate this technique. However, the daily productivity of single slope solar still SSSS is questionable. Hence, several researchers focused on enhancing the productivity and efficiency of SSSS through adopting a wide range of modifications. This review reports various modification techniques that have been investigated to improve SSSS efficiency and clean water productivity. It mainly considered modifying the absorption plate, thermal energy storage, utilization of reflectors, adopting nanotechnology, integrated condenser, cover cooling, Humidification-dehumidification HDH, and Basin water preheating technique.
Solar Sill; Absorber Plate; Heat Storage; Nanotechnology; Preheating; Glass Cooling
Photovoltaic Panel Cooling: A Review of Methodologies and Technologies
Energy production using photovoltaic panels seems to be the next promising technology. The only main problem is that the panel’s efficiency has a negative relationship with its surface temperature. Moreover, the efficiency drops by 0.5% for each one-degree rising in temperature. In recent years, many attempts have been done to cool the PV panel surface temperature. Different technologies have also been proposed to achieve that purpose .mainly, most of the suggested cooling systems based on the water or air as a working fluid, and the conversion ratio could be enhanced by 22% and 13% when using water and air cooling. Others use Nano-particles to enhance that process, as well as the PCM was also investigated. All these technologies can increase panel efficiency by 3-5%. In this paper, different types of cooling technology are analyzed and categorized.
cooling techniques, photovoltaics cells, renewable energy, PV cooling, PV water cooling. PV forced air cooling
Free Vibration Analysis of Simply Supported Power Law Functionally Graded Beam Using Finite Element Method
This paper studies the free vibration of simply supported functionally graded beam with material graduation transversally through the thickness using the power-law model. Two finite element models are proposed to calculated the first five frequency parameters of simply supported FG beam. These models are shell and solid models and they are employed using the ANSYS APDL version 17.2. The two models have been verified with the previously published works and found a good agreement with them. Numerical results are presented in graphical forms to study the effects of power-law index (i.e. material distribution) , length-to-thickness ratio, and modulus ratio on the first five frequency parameter of the FG beam. The above mention effects play very important role on the free vibration of the beam. Index of power-law is a parameter that primarily has an effect on the FG beam frequency parameter. It was found that increasing the index of the power law lead to frequency parameter increases when the modules ratio less than one and drops as index of the power law increase when the modules ratio is more one, when the module ratio is equal to one (i.e., pure material), in this case index of power law has no effect. If modulus ratio (E ratio) increases, the frequency parameter increases too, but with the change rate depending on index of power-law and length to height ratio. Also, frequency increase with increasing the length to height ratio at any power-law index.
Free Vibration; Functionally Graded Material; Power Law model; FG Beam; Modulus Ratio
Experimental Study to Improve the Exergy Performance of Water Based Photovoltaic Thermal Collector (PV/T System) Using Water Guides
Photovoltaic panels can convert solar irradiance into (electrical and thermal) energy. The PV / T system was developed, created, and its performance tested in this experimental analysis. The experiment was performed with flow rate of water from 1 L / min to 5 L / min on the PV / T collector channel. The movement of water with the guides allows the PV / T collector to improve thermal heat transfer convection. The output of (electrical and thermal) energy increase with increase of radiation. The PV / T system performance varies with different of volume flow rate that was reported for (1-5) L/min in this experiment , where the total energy increase with increasing the flow rate. Energy and exergy tests is performed, and findings show the maximum electrical and thermal energy output for water-based PV / T system is 58.38 W and 465.8W at solar radiation 1000 W/m2. Meanwhile the maximum electrical and thermal efficiency of PVT system are 14.595%, 94.49 % respectively at 5 LPM . While the maximum electrical percentage improvement in PV / T systems electrical output by the use of guides device is (36.78%), compared with traditional of PV module.
(Electrical and Thermal) Energy analysis, Exergy analysis, PV module, PV/T system
Experimental Study of Heat Transfer Enhancement by Turbulence Generator in Side Pipe
The enhancement of heat transfer exchangers is an important matter of concern for achieving more efficient thermal energy conversion systems. The use of modified twisted tape (TT) inserts as a passive heat transfer augmentation technique is an efficient way of improving heat transfer. Twisted tape insert is one of the passive heat transfer enhancement techniques that are widely used in various applications for heat transfer, such as air conditioning and cooling systems, heat recovery systems, Processes, procedures for food and milk, plants for chemical processes. To increase the heat transfer rate of the tubular heat exchanger, in this study a small-scale experimental setup was performed. The heat improvement of heat exchanger is done using twisted tape inserts with twist ratio (y=5.5). The effects of two dimensional parameters namely Nusselt number & friction factor on tubular heat exchanger effectiveness are studied. The turbulent flow was generated by the insertion into the test pipe of the twisted tape inserts, producing a high turbulence rate in the pipe, resulting in an increase in turbulence. And hence enhancement of heat transfer and drop in pressure. The length and width of insert was 1000 mm and 21.5 mm respectively. The diameter of the test pipe outside & inside is 23 mm and 22 mm respectively. The length of test section is 2000 mm. The study is carried out for the Reynold number regime (500-6500). The results show that The maximum enhancement for Nu number at Re 500 was 32% that of the plain tube.
Thermal Performance Coefficient, Turbulent Flow, Heat Transfer Enhancement, Nusselt Number, Friction Factor.
CFD Simulation of Weather Condition Effect on The Performance of Dual Purpose Solar Collector
In this research, study the performance of dual purpose solar thermal collector numerically simulation was done. The study included studying a new type of absorber plate and water pipes distribution. The simulation part of this research is done by using COMSOL Multiphysics program version 5.5. The new type was corrugated absorber plate with (2*1) m dimensions and zig-zag water pipes with (0.01) m diameter passage through the absorber plate. The effect of solar irradiance, ambient temperature, wind speed, water volumetric flow and inlet water temperature on the performance of the dual-purpose solar thermal collector was studied. The numerical simulation results that the maximum error between present work and the previous experimental work was 2.4%., and also that when the solar irradiance, inlet water temperature and ambient temperature increases the outlet temperature increases, but it is decreases with the wind speed.
dual purpose solar collector, COMSOL Multiphysics, Absorber plate.