Embedded Files
PaperID: FJET_12_8_1
Page: 1-18
Author(s): Idris M. WADA, Ibrahim ABBA, Genesis ISHAYA
Abstract: The increasing availability of satellite, reanalysis, and gauge-based Climate Products (CPs) has significantly advanced hydroclimatic research, particularly in data-scarce regions. Despite their usefulness, these CPs often carry substantial uncertainties, necessitating thorough evaluation before use in regional or basin-level studies. This study assesses the performance of nine precipitation and four temperature gridded datasets over the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin (HJRB), Nigeria, using observational data from Kano, Jigawa, and Bauchi for the period 1990–2015. Daily and monthly precipitation (Pr), maximum temperature (Tmax), and minimum temperature (Tmin) records were evaluated using Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE), Normalized Root Mean Square Error (NRMSE), Pearson correlation (r), Percentage Bias (PBIAS), and Mean Difference (MD). The fifth generation of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ERA5) dataset demonstrated superior performance in mean annual assessment for both Tmin and Tmax with minor underestimation. Tmax biases ranged from 2.2% to 3.5% and Tmin from 0.3% to 2.1%. Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR) had the weakest performance among the temperature products. The Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) outperformed other precipitation products, with modest underestimations of 3.5% (Kano), 9% (Bauchi), and 12% (Jigawa), while Climate Prediction Center (CPC) showed the poorest alignment with observed data. Monthly statistical evaluations yielded stronger statistical performance than daily analyses, especially for temperature datasets. For precipitation, correlation coefficients exceeded 0.5 across all models at monthly resolution, with CHIRPS showing the highest values. Overall model ranking using Compromise Programming Index (CPI) and Multi-Criteria Group Decision-Making Method (MCGDM) confirmed ERA5 (for Tmax and Tmin) and CHIRPS (for precipitation) as the most reliable products. Further validation using climate extremes and bootstrapped uncertainty analysis showed that the ratio of modeled to observed extremes consistently exceeded 0.5, indicating suitability for hydrological applications. The bootstrapped 95% uncertainty bands were narrow, reflecting low uncertainty in the selected CPs. ERA5 and CHIRPS emerged as the most robust datasets for hydroclimatic studies in the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin.
Keywords: Climate products, compromise programming, multi-criteria group decision making, Hadejia-Jama’are River basin, statistical evaluation, climate extremes.
PaperID: FJET_12_9_2
Page: 19-26
Author(s): Abubakar LAWAL, Abdulkadir O. ABDULBAKI, Nathaniel SALAWU, Bala A. SALIHU, Mamman A. THOMAS, Abraham U. USMAN
Abstract: The evolution from the fifth generation (5G) to the sixth generation (6G) was influenced by use case scenarios and the increasing number of services and applications. 6G has been envisioned to utilize the upper mmWave (90-300 GHz) and Terahertz bands (0.1-10 THz). At such high frequencies, high path loss and atmospheric absorption are critical challenges. A highly directional and reconfigurable antenna is required to mitigate these challenges. This research presents a novel, pattern-reconfigurable metamaterial-based antenna for sub-6 GHz mmWave applications. The antenna is based on a graphene metasurface loaded with a novel square-spherical split ring resonator, positioned above a rectangular microstrip patch antenna to provide absorption of unwanted signals and improve gain and spectral efficiency. Placed under the patch is Rogers 5800 substrate with permittivity (ε) of 2.0 and thickness of 0.1mm. The antenna operates between 90-120 GHz, spanning the 102-109 GHz, adopted at the World Radio Congress 2023 for advanced use cases of 6G, and was simulated using the CST suite. The main beam is pattern-reconfigured by two bipolar junction diodes (d1, d2) embedded on the patch antenna. The diodes reconfigure the radiation pattern and affect the S11 reflection coefficient. Specifically, d1 switches between 90-98 GHz, obtaining a minimum S11 of -70.7 dB at 97.5 GHz, while d2 switches between 98-120 GHz, realizing a minimum S11 of -69.6 dB at 105.4 GHz. When fully loaded, a -64.5 dB was obtained, better than similar work compared. These S11 values indicate exceptional impedance matching and minimal signal reflection. The proposed antenna introduces a novel design that integrates a square-spherical split ring resonator with a graphene metasurface, achieving dynamic pattern reconfigurability and deep S11 nulls in a compact structure. The antenna is compact, has a wide bandwidth, and can perform efficiently in 6G use cases such as holographic presence, and smart transport, among others require high radiation efficiency. Real-world use cases include holographic presence, smart mobility, and on-chip THz systems, where beam reconfigurability and low reflection loss are critical.
Keywords: 6G Antenna, metamaterial, mmWave, terahertz band.
PaperID: FJET_12_10_3
Page: 27-34
Author(s): Ibrahim M. GANA, Agidi GBABO, Micheal EPHRAIM
Abstract: This paper presents an automated solar-powered Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system designed to address the major challenges of global food security and sustainable agriculture. With the global population projected to reach 9.3 billion by 2050, conventional agriculture is unlikely to meet the pressure — land, water, and energy are all in short supply and at a premium. The system proposed here is an intelligent integration of renewable solar energy and IoT-based automation with the objective of extracting maximum benefit from the available resources while providing better crop yields. There are three primary subsystems: an 80W solar power system with an MPPT charge controller and 12V batteries, an NFT hydroponic system constructed with 3″ PVC channels and a 12V DC nutrient pump, and an automation system created using an Arduino Nano microcontroller, an ESP8266 Wi-Fi module, NPK, and water level sensors. The system harvests data, uploads it to the Thingspeak IoT platform for real-time telemetry, command, and control services. In the field, performance trials showed that the system performed well, maintaining target nutrient levels (nitrogen: 100-130 ppm, phosphorus: 34-37 ppm, potassium: 168-173 ppm) while slashing water consumption by a whopping 90 percent compared with the existing technique. The use of solar energy and independence from the power grid, along with automatic management, avoided manual handling, resulting in accurate environmental conditions. The resultant watering and environmental changes were done as scheduled, ensuring the maintenance of stable plant health. Overall, this study provides a practical and energy-saving approach for urban agriculture, especially for those land-limited and uneven-power-supplied regions. There is plenty of room for further research and development, AI optimization, new types of energy storage, and full-blown cost estimates could help scalability.
Keywords: Solar-powered hydroponics, NFT system, automated agriculture, IoT monitoring, sustainable farming, precision nutrient control.
PaperID: FJET_12_11_4
Page: 35-47
Author(s): Olatunde A. AKANO, Wariz A. ISMAEL, Ayomikun A. AWOSEYI, Femi AYO, Ifeoluwa M. OLANIYI, Jide E.T. AKINSOLA
Abstract: Unsolicited Short Message Service (SMS) messages, or SMS spams, pose a major challenge in mobile communication. These unwanted messages compromise user privacy, leading to data bridge or financial risks. To address this growing concern, this study explores the implementation of deep learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP) procedures to effectively detect SMS spam. By developing a robust spam detection system, this study enhances the security and usability of mobile communication platforms. This study implements an effective spam detection system using deep learning and NLP techniques. The system was developed using Python 3.10 within the Google Collaboratory environment. The SMS Spam Collection dataset, consisting of 5,574 characterized messages, underwent preprocessing procedures that included tokenization, stopword removal, lemmatization, and transformation using Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) vectorization. Three deep learning models were implemented for classification: Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Long Short-Term Memory networks (LSTM), and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN). These models were trained and evaluated using performance metrics such as correctness, precision, recall, F1-score, Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), and Mean Absolute Error (MAE). Among the models tested, the CNN model demonstrated the best performance, achieving an accuracy of 96.90 percent, a precision of 0.9692, a recall of 0.9690, and an F1-score of 0.9691. It also had the lowest error rates, indicating its superior predictive capability. The results confirm the effectiveness of CNNs for SMS spam detection, particularly when combined with rigorous text preprocessing.
Keywords: Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Short Message Service, SMS spam.
PaperID: FJET_12_12_5
Page: 48-56
Title: Cross-Regional Energy Strategies: Evaluating Japan’s Power Blueprint for Nigeria’s Needs
Author(s): Mutiat S. YISA
Abstract: The urgent need for sustainable, secure, and diversified energy sources remains a pressing concern for both developed and developing economies. Japan, an advanced economy with limited domestic energy resources, has adopted a power generation strategy centered around nuclear energy, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and wind. Conversely, Nigeria, a resource-rich yet energy-deficient country, continues to struggle with energy access and sustainability. This paper conducts a comparative assessment of Japan's proposed power generation strategy and evaluates its viability and applicability in the Nigerian context. Using criteria such as economic feasibility, environmental sustainability, energy security, and socio-political acceptability, the study finds that adapting elements of Japan’s strategy, particularly its emphasis on LNG, nuclear, and wind, could significantly enhance Nigeria’s energy mix. However, key contextual differences such as geography, regulatory maturity, infrastructure, and public perception must be carefully considered for successful policy transfer.
Keywords: Energy strategy, renewable energy, nuclear power, Nigeria, Japan energy mix.
PaperID: FJET_12_13_6
Page: 57-67
Title: A Microcontroller-Based Intelligent Electricity Theft Detection and Prevention System
Author(s): Damilare L. ADEKEYE, Moses U. IROKA
Abstract: Electricity theft is a major non-technical loss affecting the power sector, wherein consumers bypass energy meters to consume more electricity than paid for. This practice poses a significant financial threat to utility providers, resulting in revenue losses and hindering the development of the power industry. Various research efforts have explored techniques to curb electricity fraud, including communication systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning. However, challenges persist due to inadequate real-time monitoring and ineffective tracking of consumption patterns. To address this issue, this paper proposes a microcontroller-based electricity theft detection system utilizing the Arduino ATmega328P for intelligent monitoring. The system incorporates a GSM module, current and voltage sensors, a relay, and a keypad interface. The system was tested under two conditions, normal operation and operation with bypass load, across 10 different load scenarios. It achieved 100% classification accuracy, successfully detecting all five cases of electricity theft while maintaining uninterrupted service for the remaining five authorized loads. Experimental results confirm the system’s ability to detect unauthorized load connections, automatically trip the relay to cut off power, and send a theft alert via SMS. Reactivation of the system requires the input of an authenticated password through the keypad module. The proposed system demonstrates high effectiveness in real-time theft detection, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution for improving power distribution security and minimizing non-technical losses.
Keywords: Electricity theft, Arduino, relay, energy meter, ATmega328P, current sensor.
PaperID: FJET_12_14_7
Page: 68-75
Title: Evaluation of the Effects of Charcoal Particle Sizes on Carburized Low Carbon Steel
Author(s): Chibuzor A. OKAFOR, Abdulkareem BELLO, Osuloye A. BLESSING, Yakubu O. Hassan, Najeem A. YAKEEN, Musa J. MAIKATO
Abstract: This research investigates how charcoal particle size affects the carburization of mild steel. A total of 32 low-carbon steel specimens (0.219% carbon content) were carburized using charcoal particles of varying sizes: 0.5 mm, 2 mm, 5 mm, and 10 mm. The charcoal used contained 63% fixed carbon. Carburization was carried out at 900 °C for 120 minutes in the presence of an energizer, followed by quenching in water. The carburized samples were then subjected to tensile, hardness, and metallographic tests. Results indicate that the specimen treated with 0.5 mm charcoal specimen achieved the highest ultimate tensile strength 956.77 MPa which is 59% higher than the control sample. In contrast, the 10 mm charcoal specimen exhibited the highest hardness (85.23 HRA, 45.4% higher than the control) and modulus of elasticity (205.34 GPa, 2.7% higher). Metallographic analysis revealed that these samples developed a martensitic case with a bainitic core, indicating improved surface hardness and strength due to the larger particle size of charcoal used in the carburizing process.
Keywords: Carburize, particle size, metallographic, hardness, tensile strength.
PaperID: FJET_12_15_8
Page: 76-82
Author(s): Opeyemi A. ASAJU, Cephas ADELORE, Akintunde O. ONAMADE, Jonathan B. ADEWUMI, Glory A. ODUBANJO, Gbenga O. WILLIAMS, Enoch O. OYELEYE
Abstract: Whether residential, commercial, educational, or industrial buildings, the level of comfort derived within space is a function of how conductive it is. Environmental factors are a key determinant that cannot be overlooked as a major player to satisfaction. Parameters like indoor air quality, acoustic comfort, thermal comfort and visual comforts are usually considered under it. A satisfying space relaxes and rejuvenates the occupant making them productive within or outside depending on the type. To this end, the study assessed the impact of thermal comfort on students' satisfaction in selected hostels at Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State. 727 students responded to the structured questionnaire survey that was administered through google form comprising of both open and closed-ended questions. The responses were analyzed using SPSS and result presented. The finding reveals that thermal discomfort in student accommodations frequently resulting from inadequate temperature control impairs sleep quality and adversely affects academic performance and overall well-being. The placement of windows is crucial in determining thermal comfort, demonstrating the most significant correlation with students' overall life satisfaction. The study concluded that a large proportion of students report health effects because of uncomfortable temperatures. This could include respiratory problems, headaches, and other illnesses exacerbated by poor heat control. To increase students' comfort and contentment in hostels, the main recommendation is to focus on lowering heat-related discomfort, as this has the largest impact on overall satisfaction. Hostel designs should focus on thoughtful window placement to boost thermal comfort, which in turn can enhance students' sleep quality, academic success, and overall health.
Keywords: Comfort, indoor environmental quality, thermal comfort, student hostels, students satisfaction.
PaperID: FJET_12_16_9
Page: 83-87
Title: Characterization of Soil Properties Under Continuous Irrigation Practice
Author(s): Bala YAHAYA, Mukhtar N. YAHYA
Abstract: Continuous irrigation, though essential for agricultural productivity in semi-arid regions, can significantly alter soil physical and chemical properties over time. In Kano State, Nigeria, there is limited recent data on how continuous irrigation affects different soil textures such as sandy loam and loamy soils. This study aims to assess the impact of continuous irrigation on the physical and chemical properties of soils under Watari Irrigation Scheme, with a focus on identifying implications for sustainable soil management. Soil samples were collected from irrigated and adjacent non-irrigated (control) fields of sandy loam and loam textures at two depths:0-30cm and 30-60cm, replicated three times. A total of 24 samples were analyzed for physical properties (moisture content, bulk density, hydraulic conductivity), and chemical properties (organic matter, salinity (EC), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), pH (H2O), pH (CaCl2), Sodium (Na+), Calcium (Ca2+), Magnesium (Mg2+), Potassium (K+). Standard laboratory procedures were used, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v25 with ANOVA at a 5% significance level. Results showed that the texture-dependent respond to continuous irrigation. Bulk density slightly decreased in irrigated sandy loam (1.48 to 1.46g/cm3) and slightly increased in loam (1.41 to 1.4 2g/cm3), with a corresponding decrease in porosity. Moisture content was higher in non-irrigated sandy loam (15.67%) also higher in irrigated loam (16.46%). The results of this study indicate that non-irrigated soils retain more moisture but exhibit higher salinity and sodium accumulation particularly in sandy loam, TDS levels reached 262.4 mg/l compared to 108.8mg/l in irrigated soil. Loamy soil demonstrated superior moisture retention (16.46%) and lower bulk density (1.41g/cm3), making it more suitable for water-intensive crops. Pearson correlation analysis (-0.67) revealed a negative relationship between bulk density and moisture content, indicating that compacted soils retain less water. This indicates that continuous irrigation may contribute to nutrient leaching and reduce soil fertility over time. Other properties EC, pH, Na+, Ca2+, K+, SAR, and TDS do not show significant variations in the two conditions. The findings show that continuous irrigation reduces soil salinity and enhances nutrient availability, however, it may contribute to compaction in sandy loam soils. These highlight the need for texture-specific soil management. Gypsum application and organic amendments are recommended for sodium-affected soils, while strategic irrigation scheduling is necessary to optimize water use efficiency. These results provide valuable indicators for sustainable irrigation practice and strategies, soil management and crop selection (such as organic amendments and optimized irrigation scheduling, to maintain soil nutrients balance and fertility in Watari irrigation project under semi-arid agricultural systems).
Keywords: Soil characterization, continuous irrigation, salinity, moisture retention, sandy loam, loamy soil, Watari, semi-arid Kano, Nigeria.
PaperID: FJET_12_17_10
Page: 88-96
Title: Smart Assessment of Tractor Noise Levels During Tillage Operation
Author(s): Dandison M. WALI, Beabu B. DUMKHANA, Raymond A. EKEMUBE, and Silas O. NKAKINI
Abstract: Tractor operations during tillage are a major source of occupational noise exposure in agriculture, posing significant risks to operators’ hearing health and wellbeing. This study uses smart framework for monitoring and analyzing tractor noise levels during tillage operations using a smart monitoring gadget. Real-time noise measurements were collected from an experimental field measuring 160 m × 38 m (4,480 m²), divided into three blocks with nine subplots at the implement-soil interaction zones. Noise data was acquired using a wireless sound level meter and an iPhone 15 Pro Max. High-resolution noise maps were generated using ArcGIS 10.3.1 (ESRI, USA) with the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation method, providing detailed spatial noise distribution. During tillage operations (ploughing, harrowing, and ridging), the tractor operator maintained forward speeds of 5, 7, and 9 km/h to assess noise variations. The results indicate that engine speed and implement dynamics are the dominant noise contributors with levels 71.30 dB, 79.00 dB, and 81.70 dB at a speed of 5, 7 and 9 km/h, were within the Global standard for safe noise exposure limits to protect workers, but higher than NESREA (2009) recommended noise limits. At setback distances of 5 m, 10 m, and 15 m, the noise levels decreased from 71.30 dB to 70.9 dB and finally to 54.00 dB. This indicates that the noise on farm personnel becomes harmless at a distance of 15 m and beyond. The noise maps developed for the different tillage operations illustrate how noise levels vary with setback distance. As the distance increases, noise levels decline across all tractor speeds, supported by high coefficients of determination (R²) ranging from 0.77 for ploughing to 0.93 for both harrowing and ridging operations. This study demonstrates that smart noise monitoring systems can enhance occupational safety, reduce hearing loss risks, and improve compliance with regulatory standards in mechanized agriculture.
Keywords: Tillage operation, noise assessment, setback distance, noise mapping, smart monitoring.
PaperID: FJET_12_18_11
Page: 97-109
Title: Application of Upper Bound Analysis and Taguchi Method in Aluminium Extrusion
Author(s): Kamardeen A. OGUNBAJO, Ben I. UGHEOKE, Ibrahim D. MUHAMMAD, Emmanuel ONCHE
Abstract: This research explores the use of upper bound analysis in calculating the extrusion force through u-shaped dies with varying fillet radii, billet lengths, friction coefficients and billet temperatures. Taguchi method was used in design of this experiment which is a four factor four level experiment giving a total of 16 experimental runs and aluminium 3003 was used as the workpiece. Based on these results a model equation was developed to predict the extrusion force. The correlation coefficient and covariance of the data generated, revealed that a positive and direct relationship existed between fillet radius, billet length, friction coefficient and extrusion force, while an inverse and indirect relationship existed between billet temperature and extrusion force. The R2 value was 99.96% and adjusted R2 value of 99.80% and a root mean square error of 0.2137, indicating that the accuracy of the model is good.
Keywords: Billet Lengths, Billet temperatures, friction coefficients, fillet radii, Taguchi Method.
PaperID: FJET_12_19_12
Page: 110-122
Author(s): Cyril OCHERI, Victor S. AIGBODION, Esther O. AMEH, Ihebuchuwu C. EZEAKU, Chibuikem A. OKAFOR, Uchenna C. AMAZUE, Eddy R. OMONIGHO
Abstract: Corrosion inhibition of mild steel in acidic environments is vital in several industrial applications. This study was based of the electrochemical analysis of Azadirachta indica Leaf Extract (ALE) as corrosion inhibitor on mild steel in 1 mol. H2SO4. The electrochemical analysis is a technique was used to study the chemical properties and reactions of substance by measuring the flow of electrical current or potential difference This process was used to determine the ions in the leaf extract and to understand the oxidation-reduction reactions and the kinetics presence in the leaf extract. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to determine the functional groups present. The phytochemical analysis was used to identify and quantify the bioactive compounds that were present in the leaf extract. The chemical composition of the mild steel material was determined. The pH meter was used to determine the level of acidity on the extract. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy were used to determine the morphology and the elemental weight (%) of the mild steel . The results of the corrosion test using the Electrochemical analytical technique revealed the stability of the oxide with respect to time(sec). The potentiodynamic polarization indicates that the corrosion rate decrease with respect inhibition addition thereby mitigating the corrosion process. The result of the EIS revealed that the addition of the extract increased the diameter of the semicircle in the Nyquist plot, indicating a decrease in corrosion rate. The Bode plot revealed an increase in impedance value at high frequencies, indicating a decrease in corrosion rate. The results from FT-IR identified several key components that created a protective thin film layer that stopped the release of hydrogen ions (H+) in the presence of acid, including C-C stretching, aromatic compounds, N-H2 symmetric stretching vibration, N-H symmetric stretching, and others. The functional groups identified by FTIR analysis of the protective film formed by leaf extract in H2SO4. The hydroxyl (OH) groups, carbonyl (C=O) groups, the amines (N-H) groups and aromatic (C=C) groups, these groups possesses corrosion inhibition properties by coordinating with metal ions or forming stable complexes with the metal surface. The XRD results revealed sharp peaks indicate crystalline structure of the mild steel indicating the presence of corresponding compounds such as Fe(MgSO4), FeS2, CaCO3, and Fe2O3. The SEM/EDX revealed the morphology that exhibit smooth an uniform structures indicating the presence of inhibition while the EDX shows the elements in weight (%). The Phytochemical analysis shows the presence of Alkaloids 0.6%, Flavonoids 5.8%, Saponins 1.5%, tannins 3.6% and Phenol 7.8%. The pH values obatined indactes that Azadirachta leaf extract has 1.0 while 1 M H2SO4 conatins 0.5. The findings of potentiodynamic polarisation demonstrated that the corrosion rate dropped from 1.164e+002 to 1.3166e+004 in the 0.7 g of 30 mL in 1 M H2SO4 medium and from 1.164e+002 to 1.042e+004 in the 0.9g of 30 mL in H2SO4. The development of a physical protective layer in the mild steel was credited with the enhanced corrosion resistance of the Azadirachta indica leaf extract. The extract's chemical inertness was also cited as a factor in the mild steel's lower rate of corrosion.The findings show that Azadirachta indica leaf extract is environmentally friendly on the mild steel which serves as corrosion inhibitor in acidic settings. The results revealed that the extract has good corrosion inhibitory properties that can mitigate the corrosion process.
Keywords: Azadirachta indica, corrosion, H2SO4, electrochemical analysis.
PaperID: FJET_12_20_13
Page: 123-131
Title: Development of a High Blood Pressure and Hypoxemia Measuring Device
Author(s): Nnamdi S. OKOMBA, Adedayo A. SOBOWALE, Adebimpe O. ESAN, Bolaji A. OMODUNBI, Akinola T. AWOYEMI
Abstract: This paper presents the design and implementation of a high blood pressure and hypoxemia measuring device. High blood pressure and hypoxemia are major global health concerns, often leading to stroke, heart disease, disability, and death. Factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and environmental influences contribute to hypertension, affecting over 20% of adults worldwide. Hypertensive patients commonly experience stress, anxiety, depression, and heightened cardiovascular responses to stressors. Hypoxemia, particularly prevalent in Africa, is a significant cause of mortality, with a 13.3% prevalence rate in hospitalized children. Existing devices typically monitor either blood pressure or oxygen levels separately, which discourages consistent vital sign monitoring. To address this limitation, a device capable of simultaneously measuring both high blood pressure and hypoxemia is essential. This proposed device enables early detection and management of these conditions, potentially reducing death rates. The system is built using a microcontroller (ESP32), a power supply unit, a blood pressure sensor (VM50), a MAX30100 oxygen sensor, and an LCD display. Comparative testing between the developed device and standard hospital equipment was conducted on male and female subjects across various age groups. Results showed strong agreement between the devices, with discrepancies in oxygen level readings being less than 1%, which is clinically insignificant. Additionally, blood pressure measurements from the constructed device were compared with those from a hospital-used Omron blood pressure monitor on individuals aged 15–29. The percentage error in blood pressure readings was approximately ±3%, indicating acceptable accuracy. These outcomes confirm the device’s reliability for monitoring both blood pressure and hypoxemia in clinical and non-clinical environments, offering a cost-effective and practical solution for continuous health monitoring.
Keywords: Microcontroller, blood pressure sensor, MAX30100 sensor.
PaperID: FJET_12_21_14
Page: 132-140
Author(s): Kingsley C. IGWE, Abubakar T. MUHAMMAD, Obiseye OBIYEMI, Abiodun S. MOSES, Aku G. IBRAHIM, Joel A. EZENWORA, Julia O. EICHIE
Abstract: This paper documents the results of the investigation of real-time evaluation of rain-induced signal degradation on digital satellite television links in Minna (9o 37''N, 6o 30''E), Nigeria. Two aspects of analyses are involved. One is the prediction of rain-induced attenuation for earth-space links at Ku band using the ITU-R P.618-12 attenuation model, while the other is the real-time measurement of the exact television signal strength during clear sky and during rainfall. This study was set up as a preliminary assessment. The results obtained revealed significant differences between the predicted and the measured rain attenuation values. The ITU-R P.618-12 model predicted an attenuation value of 16 dB at 0.01%-time exceedance. For the real-time signal measurement, signal levels that ranged between 80 and 83 dBµV were recorded during clear sky. However, during rainfall, these values degraded to the range of 69 to 78 dBµV, thereby resulting to a range of 5 - 11 dBµV signal level degradation.
Keywords: Digital satellite television, rain rate, rain attenuation, real-time evaluation.
PaperID: FJET_12_22_15
Page: 141-166
Author(s): Muazu D. ZAKARI, Md R. KAMAL, Wada I. MUHAMMAD, Nuraddeen M. NASIDI, Dahiru MOHAMMED
Abstract: Agro-hydrological modeling systems play a vital role in understanding and managing water resources in agricultural landscapes. Incorporating hydrological processes and agricultural practices through modelling systems is essential for sustainable land and water management in Peninsula Malaysia, where agriculture is a significant industry. This article provides an overview of the agro-hydrological modelling systems implemented in Peninsula Malaysia and their applications, strengths, limitations, and future research directions. Various paper publications were considered, including papers listed in the Scopus database. Based on the findings, a key gap identified in Peninsula Malaysia is that the application of agro-hydrological modelling systems is still in its early stages. Additionally, few models incorporate long-term climate change projections and adaptive water management strategies. To address these limitations, the review proposes a flow chart for model setup and input data. These techniques, however, have the potential to significantly improve water management in the region. This paper aims to assist policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders in making informed decisions about water management strategies in agricultural landscapes and to provide future research direction on agro-hydrological modeling.
Keywords: Agro-hydrological, modeling, climate change, Water management, Peninsula Malaysia.
PaperID: FJET_12_23_16
Page: 167-172
Title: Solar Irradiance Forecast Using Feedforward Neural Network: A Case Study of Zaria Town
Author(s): Ismaila MAHMUD, Mahmud MUSTAPHA, Sulaiman H. SULAIMAN, Ibrahim ABDULWAHAB, Ibrahim A. SHEHU, Aminu J. ALIYU, Yusuf S. ABU, Nuraddeen A. ILIYASU
Abstract: This study aims to forecast solar irradiation using Artificial Neural Network (ANN), with the goal of developing a high-performance prediction model based on real meteorological data. Lack of sufficient meteorological data in Nigeria necessitate the development of model to forecast solar irradiance for optimal utilization. The model is designed to predict daily solar irradiation for Zaria town, providing valuable insights to the utilities managing solar energy generation and monitoring systems. Feed forward Neural Network (FFNN) was applied to perform day-ahead solar irradiance forecasting. We employ a day-ahead persistence model as a baseline, a commonly used method in solar irradiance forecasting research. It operates under the assumption that current conditions will persist over the forecast horizon. Specifically, it uses the irradiance values from the previous day as the predictions for the following day. The findings highlight the significance of meteorological factors (such as minimum humidity, maximum temperature, day, month, and wind direction) in the FFNN model training. Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) were used to evaluate the performance of the model. The RMSE of 4.46 W/m² and MAE of 2.52 W/m² obtained indicate an excellent performance of the FFNN model. The model outperformed the Persistence model in predicting daily solar irradiance, indicating its superiority solar irradiance forecast. The results show the ability of the model to forecast day – ahead solar irradiance in Zaria town which can address the issue of non-recorded meteorological data.
Keywords: Solar irradiance, forecast, feedforward neural network, renewable energy.
PaperID: FJET_12_24_17
Page: 173-182
Title: An Overview of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Technologies for Office Use and Services Delivery
Author(s): Olarewaju T. OGINNI
Abstract: Universities are transforming into smart ecosystems driven (SED) by technology, transforming office logistics from inefficient processes to faster, more efficient, and innovative ones, thereby enhancing modern communication. Quadcopter drones (QCD) with delivery systems are revolutionizing office logistics by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and boosting productivity. The paper explores the feasibility and functionality of a drone-based system for autonomously transporting small office items, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce human effort, and provide a reliable, secure intra-office delivery method. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) are transforming office spaces by eliminating human couriers and facilitating document transportation, especially for physical documents like examination scripts, parcels, and administrative files, thereby improving operational efficiency. The overview examines how automated drone delivery systems (ADDS) can be utilized in offices to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and comfort by focusing on pick-and-delivery mechanisms and technologies that offer practical solutions for office deliveries and automation. It examines the functionality of a quadcopter drone for outdoor delivery applications, focusing on delivery mechanisms, classification, aerodynamics, control systems, power management, battery efficiency, area navigation, obstacle avoidance, challenges, payload capacity, case studies, and security measures. The outcomes showed that drones can carry 500 grams to 2 kilograms and navigate university campuses within 2-5 km, transferring documents like transcripts, letters, memos, and USB drives using lightweight folders, envelopes, or hard cases securely fastened in the drone's payload compartment. The implementation of an autonomous quadcopter drone for university document delivery is expected to enhance inter-faculty communication, decrease staff workload, and boost operational efficiency. The review promotes the integration of smart technologies in corporate operations, aiming to enhance the efficiency and innovation of university campuses.
Keywords: Universities, modern communication, smart technologies, delivery system, operational efficiency.
PaperID: FJET_12_25_18
Page: 183-189
Title: Co-Gasification of Sugarcane Bagasse and Coal: A Study on Thermal Characteristics and Efficiency
Author(s): Benjamin T. ABUR, Abubakar A. WARA, David ISAH, Mary D. IGBUR, Kwaghmande C. NGUEVESE
Abstract: Biomass fuels offers sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources, mitigating pollution and landfill disposal challenges. This work aim at identifying an optimal blend for enhancing gasification efficiency, operational stability and reduced emissions. Ultimate analysis was adopted for elemental composition determination, proximate analysis for physical and chemical properties while the energy content was estimated using calorimetry and thermal degradation behavior using the thermo-gravimetric analysis. Elemental analysis of coal, sugar cane bagasse and their blends revealed principal chemical constituents of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, with coal demonstrating higher carbon content. Nitrogen composition is negligible for pure and blended samples. Results indicate that coal has higher calorific value compared to bagasse owing to its lower ash content and higher carbon concentration. Conversely, calorific value of blends increased with proportion of bagasse, likely due to its high reactivity, which catalyzes coal combustion. Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) displays maximum de-volatilization at 900 °C, with rapid weight loss between 300-550°C for all blends. Derivative (DTG) profiles of blends exhibit two peaks: first peak at 320-350 °C, with second peak at 400-800°C representing sub-bituminous coal de-volatilization. This study concludes that blending 10% coal with 90% sugarcane bagasse optimize calorific values, thermal stability, efficiency and minimizes environmental pollution.
Keywords: Co-gasification, sugarcane bagasse, coal, thermal characteristics.
PaperID: FJET_12_26_19
Page: 190-196
Author(s): Habib I. ABDULAZEEZ, Bala ABDULLAHI, Abdullahi AHMED, Ibrahim A. TUKUR
Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the impact of tilt angles on solar radiation, current, voltage, and power output of a photovoltaic system, while also employing mathematical modeling to predict solar radiation. This study experimentally investigates the effect of tilt angle (0°, 7.8°, 22.8°, 37.8°, and 52.8°) on the performance of 10W polycrystalline solar panels in Kogi State, Nigeria, over a 12-month period (November 2023–October 2024). Solar radiation, current, and power output were measured at 20-minute intervals using data loggers, voltmeters, and ammeters. The study only investigates the effect of tilt angle and does not consider other factors that may impact solar panel efficiency, such as dust accumulation, temperature, or shading. Results show that optimal performance varies seasonally: lower angles (0°–7.8°) yielded higher radiation and power during peak dry seasons (e.g., November, 613.67 W/m² at 22.8°), while steeper angles (22.8°–37.8°) performed better in transitional months. The 7.8° tilt achieved the highest yearly average radiation, whereas the 0° tilt produced the highest average current (0.300 A) and power (4.51 W). These findings suggest that adjusting tilt angles seasonally can maximize solar energy efficiency in Kogi State, with 7.8° recommended as the best annual fixed tilt.
Keywords: Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, tilt angle optimization, solar radiation, Kogi State, Nigeria.
PaperID: FJET_12_27_20
Page: 197-207
Author(s): Amina UTHMAN, Shamsuddeen SULAIMAN
Abstract: The adoption of sustainable construction practices is crucial in addressing environmental, economic and social concerns in the built environment. However, cost-related factors remain a significant barrier to their widespread implementation, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. This paper, therefore, seeks to assess the cost factors influencing the adoption of sustainable construction practices in Abuja, Nigeria, with a view to improve cost efficiency. A quantitative research approach was adopted using self-administered questionnaires to collect data from experienced construction professionals registered with the Green Building Council of Nigeria (GBCN). A mixture of purposive and snowball sampling techniques was employed to select professionals with requisite experience and involvement in sustainable construction practice. Data collection was done using a questionnaire survey via self-administered questionnaires to experienced professionals. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, which is the relative importance index (RII), to rank the significance of various cost factors. The study revealed that the most significant cost factors include high initial capital costs, the expensive nature of sustainable materials, and limited financial incentives. Other critical cost factors identified include the cost of renewable energy systems, maintenance and operational expenses, poor knowledge of life-cycle costing, project financing challenges, and regulatory compliance costs. Despite these challenges, the study underscores the long-term economic benefits of sustainability through reduced operational costs and increased property value. To promote sustainable construction, the study recommends the development of financial support frameworks, such as grants and low-interest loans, increased availability of local sustainable materials and enhanced education on life-cycle costing to improve awareness through education and training. Addressing these cost factors is essential for fostering a more sustainable and cost-effective construction industry in Abuja, Nigeria.
Keywords: Cost factors, financial incentives, initial capital cost, sustainable construction, life-cycle cost.
PaperID: FJET_12_28_21
Page: 208-219
Title: Design and Implementation of an Automatic Gate for Cars at Railway Crossings
Author(s): Damilare L. ADEKEYE, Isiyaku SALEH, Yemisi E. AKINSELI
Abstract: The growing volume of vehicular traffic at railway crossings has heightened the demand for advanced safety measures to prevent accidents and collisions between trains and vehicles. This project presents the design and implementation of an automated railway crossing gate system, developed to enhance safety and minimize human intervention. The proposed system utilizes infrared (IR) proximity sensors to detect the presence and movement of trains, enabling the timely closure and reopening of crossing gates. When a train approaches, the entrance IR sensor detects its presence and triggers the immediate closure of both gates, preventing vehicles and pedestrians from entering the crossing. Once the train has fully passed, the exit IR sensor detects its absence and signals the gates to reopen promptly, thus minimizing unnecessary traffic delays while ensuring maximum safety. The system’s performance was evaluated using response time metrics, which measure the interval between train detection and actuator activation (buzzer, LEDs, and gate mechanism). The prototype achieved an overall response time of 4.6 seconds, with delay times ranging between 0.5 and 2.1 seconds, demonstrating high sensitivity and operational efficiency. These findings confirm the system's capability to respond swiftly and accurately under real-world conditions. This work presents a cost-effective, responsive, and reliable solution for railway safety infrastructure, offering significant potential to reduce accidents and enhance safety at level crossings through the use of automated train detection and gate control.
Keywords: Railway crossings, accident, IR Sensor, automatic gate, Atmega328P.
PaperID: FJET_12_29_22
Page: 220-230
Author(s): Bala I. ABDULKARIM, Umar IDRISS
Abstract: Chronic oil spills in Nigeria's Niger Delta have caused significant water contamination, particularly by water-soluble benzene - a hazardous carcinogen. This research investigates the development and characterization of potassium hydroxide-activated carbon from Laggera aurita biomass (LAKOHAC) for benzene remediation. The synthesis involved carbonization followed by chemical activation with KOH, with comprehensive characterization using SEM, FTIR, BET surface area analysis, and XRD techniques. FTIR spectroscopy revealed critical functional groups (C-H, C-O, COO⁻, C=O, and O-H) that enable benzene adsorption through multiple mechanisms: π-π interactions, hydrogen bonding, electrostatic attraction, and van der Waals forces. SEM imaging showed a highly porous morphology featuring a honeycomb structure with interconnected pores, surface cracks, and fibrous elements - characteristics that enhance benzene accessibility. Surface defects and roughness provided additional high-energy adsorption sites. Elemental analysis via EDXRF identified potassium (10.66%) and sulfur (0.67%) as dominant elements, along with calcium (0.61%), phosphorus (0.11%), and chlorine (0.58%). These elements facilitate various adsorption mechanisms including cation-π interactions, thiol-mediated hydrogen bonding, and phosphate electrostatic attraction.
Keywords: Laggera aurita, activated carbon, potassium hydroxide, benzene adsorption, oil spill remediation.
PaperID: FJET_12_30_23
Page: 231-241
Author(s): Emma S. EKPO, Mokọ́ládé JOHNSON
Abstract: The architectural studio environment represents a distinctive educational setting that transcends its physical confines. Beyond the physical structures are also the social relationships, activities, and attitudes of the users that are significant to the learning environment. Despite its pedagogical centrality, limited empirical research has explored how students in African institutions, especially in Nigeria, experience and attach meaning to their studio environments. Consequently, this study aims to bridge that gap by examining how the concepts of place attachment, place identity, and sense of place are used to describe the quality of students’ relationships with the architectural studio environments in three federal universities Southwest Nigeria, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), University of Lagos (UNILAG), and Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA). Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from environmental psychology, educational theory, and architectural pedagogy, the research explores how students internalize the studio as a place and how these interactions influence students’ sense of belonging, learning experiences and well-being. Place is a dimension shaped by people’s relationship with physical environments, individual and group activities, and meaning. Employing qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, participant observation, and spatial analysis, the study reveals that a strong emotional connection to the studio fosters deeper engagement and identity formation among architecture students. The findings highlight the pivotal role of spatial design and social dynamics in shaping the meanings and educational experiences of students and tutors, suggesting that intentionally designed studio environments and culture can have a positive impact on students’ sense of place, promote learning outcomes and contribute to overall well-being.
Keywords: Architectural studio environment, meaning, place attachment, place identity, sense of place, well-being.
PaperID: FJET_12_31_24
Page: 242-246
Title: Utilization of Microbial Fuel Cells for Electricity Generation from Gwagwalada Abattoir Wastewater
Author(s): Bala I. ABDULKARIM, Phebe O. JAMES
Abstract: This study explores the use of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for electricity generation and wastewater treatment using wastewater from the Gwagwalada abattoir. The research aimed to assess contamination levels, develop an MFC system, and evaluate its performance over 240 hours. Key parameters analysed are: Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), conductivity, and pH, before and after treatment. The MFC was constructed based on established designs and its electrical output voltage and current was monitored throughout the experiment. Results showed a significant reduction in BOD and COD by 69.8% and 68.8%, respectively. The MFC also produced a maximum voltage of 94 mV and current of 0.2 mA. These findings demonstrate that MFCs can simultaneously treat abattoir wastewater and generate electricity, suggesting a promising avenue for sustainable waste-to-energy technologies with potential for further enhancement.
Keywords: Electricity generation, microbial fuel cells, abattoir wastewater, total dissolved solids, pH.
PaperID: FJET_12_32_25
Page: 247-257
Author(s): Kamoru O. OLADOSU, Kabiru MUSTAPHA, Ayodeji S. OLAWORE, Akeem B. IBRAHIM, Abdulganiyu ISSA
Abstract: This study presents the design, fabrication, and evaluation of a free-fall reactor with a capacity of 1 kg/hr for biofuel production from sugarcane bagasse (SCB) and cassava rhizome (CR). The reactor was designed based on particle heating rate and free-fall velocity principles, with a heating rate of 50 °C/min. Experiments were conducted using various blends of SCB and CR at temperatures ranging from 400 °C to 650 °C, with a residence time of 30 minutes. The results showed that a 50:50 blend of SCB and CR yielded the highest bio-oil yield of 36.2%, with a corresponding heating value of 23.6 MJ/kg. At an operating temperature of 550 °C, the yields of biochar and biogas were 16.2% and 47.6%, respectively. This study demonstrates the feasibility and sustainability of utilizing agricultural residues for bioenergy production through free-fall pyrolysis, offering a promising solution to the energy crisis in developing nations.
Keywords: Free-fall reactor, sugarcane bagasse, cassava rhizome, pyrolysis, biofuel.
PaperID: FJET_12_33_26
Page: 258-271
Author(s): Tolulope S. FAWALE, Monday O. IMAFIDON, Chukwuemeka P. OGBU
Abstract: Workers in the construction industry are more likely to be productive when they are well motivated. While many construction sites in Edo State have adopted financial motivators to enhance worker productivity, as suggested in the literature, the use of non-financial motivators remains limited. This study aims to examine the influence of non-financial motivators on construction workers’ productivity, with the goal of mitigating project delays in Edo State. The research objectives are to assess the non-financial motivators most frequently adopted, investigate the factors driving their adoption, and determine the relationship between the use of non-financial motivators and the productivity of construction workers in Edo State. Two categories of construction participants—professionals and artisans—were selected, totaling 160 respondents. These groups were chosen because they constitute the majority of personnel involved in construction site operations. The study employed a random sampling technique to select respondents within the construction industry. Two sets of questionnaires were administered: one to construction participants and another to their supervisors. Data analysis was conducted using percentages, mean item scores, and Spearman rank correlation. The results indicate that participation in decision-making, recreational activities, and effective supervision are the most commonly adopted non-financial motivators in the construction industry. Factors necessitating the adoption of these motivators include the desire to improve workers’ lifestyles, the surrounding culture, and worker retention. A strong positive correlation was found between feeding and vacation benefits and average man-hours worked (P4), with correlation coefficients of 0.530 and 0.529, respectively. This study demonstrates the significant impact that the adoption of non-financial motivators by firms has on the productivity of construction site participants. Therefore, firms and clients should incorporate more non-financial motivators into their motivational strategies to enhance worker productivity.
Keywords: Construction industry, construction worker, non-financial motivators, professionals, motivation.
PaperID: FJET_12_34_27
Page: 272-289
Author(s): Yusuf T. BAFFA, Muhammad Yusuf MUHAMMAD, Aliyu SHUAIBU
Abstract: Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks continue to pose a critical threat to network infrastructure, necessitating robust, advanced and efficient detection systems. This study explores the application of deep learning (DL) models, specifically DNN, DCNN, CNN-LSTM, and CNN-BiLSTM, into intrusion detection systems (IDS) to enhance their ability to detect and classify diverse DDoS attacks. Utilizing the CICDDoS2019 dataset, a comprehensive preprocessing pipeline was applied, including feature elimination, duplicate and zero-value removal and downsampling to address class imbalance. The dataset was partitioned into binary and multiclass tasks, and two feature sets were analyzed: a 70-feature baseline set and a 25-feature time-based set. Experiments were conducted across three scenarios: binary classification (DDoS vs. benign), 12-class attack detection, and 13-class classification (attacks + benign). Key findings demonstrate the integration of time-based features significantly enhanced detection precision for stealthy, low-rate attacks such as UDPLag (F1 = 0.99%), detection recall from 0.9965 to 0.9998 and effectively resolved false positives for attacks like Portmap. CNN-BiLSTM showed superior performance in capturing temporal dependencies, particularly for time-sensitive attacks, achieving 0.99% F1-score (13-class) with 20% FP reduction for UDPLag due to its bidirectional processing capability. The study underscores the importance of temporal feature engineering and the superiority of hybrid deep learning models for robust and scalable DDoS intrusion detection. The findings contribute to advancing deep learning-based IDS frameworks, ensuring improved resilience against evolving cyber threats.
Keywords: Deep learning, CICDDoS2019, cybersecurity, DDoS detection, time-based features, multiclassification.
PaperID: FJET_12_35_28
Page: 290-299
Title: Development of a Water-Recycling PICO Hydropower System
Author(s): Nuhu MOHAMMED, Garkuwa Y. ADAMU, Abubakar A. FACHWAY, Aminu MOHAMMED, Afolayan A. OLASUNKANMI, Odoh F. CHIMEZIE, Muhammad A. YUSUF
Abstract: This paper presents a groundbreaking Pico water-recycling hydropower system designed to transform the kinetic energy of water into clean, affordable electricity. Unlike conventional hydropower systems, the innovative closed-loop design continuously recycles water, making it an ideal solution for areas with limited water resources while maintaining a minimal environmental impact. The system was designed and constructed to have 10 buckets, a net head of 2 m, and a flow rate of 0.0041 m3/s, and return flow rate of 0.000124 m3/s. The turbine achieves an impressive 80% efficiency, thereby generating 24 W of usable electrical output. The results demonstrate that this technology is technically viable, offering an alternative to diesel generators and solar panels in remote settings. The system’s zero-emission production while conserving water through continuous recycling can provide a significant environmental benefit and can contribute to achieving multiple sustainable development goals simultaneously.
Keywords: Pico hydropower, water recycling, Pelton turbine, off-grid energy, sustainable electrification, renewable energy, kinetic energy.
PaperID: FJET_12_36_29
Page: 300-305
Title: Development of an Intelligent-Based Elevator System
Author(s): Nnamdi S. OKOMBA, Adedayo A. SOBOWALE, Adebimpe O. ESAN, Bolaji A. OMODUNBI, Taiwo A. AWOYEMI
Abstract: Elevator systems are central to modern smart buildings, and recent innovations aim to make them more intuitive, safe, and inclusive. Traditional models that rely on manual control panels often limit accessibility for users with physical or visual impairments while also presenting safety concerns in crowded or high-traffic environments. To overcome these challenges, this study developed an intelligent elevator system that combines voice recognition for hands-free operation with ultrasonic sensing for obstacle detection at the doors. A prototype was designed and tested under varying ambient noise conditions and distances to assess recognition accuracy, wake-up responsiveness, and door safety performance. Results indicated strong system reliability, achieving up to 97 percent recognition accuracy at 1 m in quiet conditions and maintaining effective responsiveness across stationary and babble noise environments, while ultrasonic sensors consistently detected human presence to prevent accidental entrapment. These outcomes confirm that the integration of voice and sensor technologies not only enhances convenience but also strengthens safety and accessibility. In conclusion, the project demonstrates that an intelligent voice-controlled elevator with sensor-assisted doors is both practical and reliable, making it a valuable solution for high-rise residential, commercial, and institutional buildings seeking to align with the principles of smart, inclusive, and safe infrastructure.
Keywords: Accessibility, embedded system, speech recognition, ultrasonic sensor, vertical transportation.
PaperID: FJET_12_37_30
Page: 306-317
Title: Investigation of Indoor Radiation Levels Within Lead City University’s Academic Buildings
Author(s): Ruth R. ADELAJA, Rhoda I. ADELAJA, Henry OTOBORISE, Adefope OWOJORI, Babatunde ADEBO
Abstract: A study was conducted at Lead City University to evaluate indoor gamma radiation exposure and its potential health implications. Measurements were taken using a Gamma Scout Geiger counter at walls, floors, and room centers across 10 aerated and non-aerated locations. In aerated areas, the average equivalent dose rate (EDR) ranged from 0.614 µSv/h (SB) to 2.104 µSv/h (LO1), with a mean of of 1.438 µSv/h. Non-aerated locations showed a slightly higher average value, with each location values ranging from 1.227 µSv/h (AH,PL,CL,SC) to 2.016 µSv/h (LO1, SC) and an average EDR value of 1.490 µSv/h, with both averages exceeding the global average of 0.133 µSv/h. Absorbed Dose Rates (ADR) were within safe limits. Aerated rooms recorded values between 0.61 and 2.10 nGy/h (mean: 1.44 nGy/h), while non-aerated rooms ranged from 1.22 to 2.01 nGy/h (mean: 1.49 nGy/h), all below the global average of 55 nGy/h. Annual Effective Dose Equivalent (AEDE) values were also below the recommended threshold of 1 mSv/y. Aerated areas ranged from 0.0030 to 0.0103 mSv/y (mean: 0.0070 mSv/y), and non-aerated areas from 0.0060 to 0.0099 mSv/y (mean: 0.0073). Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) values remained below the global average of 1.16 ×10⁻³, with aerated spaces ranging from 0.15 to 0.51 ×10⁻³ and non-aerated areas from 0.3008 to 0.4942 ×10⁻³. However, whole-body organ dose (D-organ) values exceeded the global average of 1 mSv/y. Aerated locations recorded 1.63 to 5.61 mSv/y (mean: 2.33 mSv/y), and non-aerated areas showed consistent values around 3.27 to 5.37 mSv/y. Conclusion: Despite the equivalent dose rate being above recommended limits, the AEDE, ELCR, and organ dose values remain within safe thresholds. This indicates that the elevated dose rate may result from temporary factors. Since overall exposure is low, the likelihood of long-term health risks, such as cancer, remains minimal in the school environment.
Keywords: Indoor exposure, background radiation, equivalent dose rate, gamma-scout survey meter.
PaperID: FJET_12_38_31
Page: 318-329
Author(s): Rhoda I. ADELAJA, Ruth R. ADELAJA, Henry OTOBRISE, Adefope OWOJORI, Babatunde ADEBO
Abstract: This study evaluates outdoor gamma background ionizing radiation levels across selected locations within Lead City University, Ibadan, South-western Nigeria, using a Gamma-Scout survey meter. Five radiological indices were assessed: equivalent dose rate (EDR), absorbed dose rate (ADR), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), and effective dose rate to organs (Dorgan). All surveyed locations recorded EDR values above the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommended limit of 0.133 μSv/h, ranging from 0.17 μSv/h at CPG to 0.25 μSv/h at SFB1. ADR values also exceeded the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) global average of 55 nGy/h, with minimum and maximum values of 170 nGy/h (CPT1 and CPG) and 250 nGy/h (SFB2), respectively. Despite elevated background radiation, AEDE values remained below the ICRP threshold of 1 mSv/y, averaging 0.25 mSv/y. The lowest AEDE was observed at CPT1 and CPG (0.21 mSv/y), while SFB2 recorded the highest (0.31 mSv/y). ELCR values ranged from 0.73 × 10⁻³ to 1.07 × 10⁻³, exceeding the global average of 0.293 × 10⁻³, suggesting a modest increase in lifetime cancer risk. Dorgan values were significantly lower than the global average of 1 mSv/y, with a mean of 0.07 mSv/y across all locations. Overall, the findings indicate elevated environmental radiation levels, likely influenced by local geological or material factors. While short-term exposure does not pose immediate health risks such as acute radiation sickness or organ damage, the increased ADR, EDR, and ELCR values suggest a potential for long-term health effects. These results underscore the need for continued monitoring and localized risk assessment to inform public health and safety strategies.
Keywords: Outdoor exposure, survey meter, equivalent dose rate, background radiation.
PaperID: FJET_12_39_32
Page: 330-341
Title: Design, Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of a Vegetable Leaf Preservation Dryer
Author(s): Jamesmary E. AYANRU, Matthew S. ABOLARIN, Omotayo I. OGUNWEDE, Henry I. MORKAH, and Adeshola O. OPENIBO
Abstract: Vegetable leaves need to be well preserved and kept in their best quality to avoid excess wastage when they are out of season, by minimizing pathogenic bacteria that cause decaying. As a result of this search, a machine dryer was created to preserve the vegetable leaves throughout the surplus season. The drying machine has two identical rectangular cabinets with three identical tray plates. It is designed to be electrically powered by means of a circuit box that includes a temperature controller, a contactor, and a switch. A heating filament with 1,800 W capacity serves as the heat source. The developed machine also contained a 12 V, 25 W DC motor and a propeller shaft connected with fans that extract moisture from the drying materials, such as fluted pumpkin leaf (Telfairia occidentalis), water leaf (Talinum triangulare), and bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina). The result shows the mass of water removed during drying of the aforementioned three varieties of vegetable leaves was 3.500 g, 4.387 g, and 3.850 g, respectively, to attain the required moisture content for preservation. The amount of moisture extracted was 72.9%, 75%, and 73.3%. The total heat energy required to extract moisture was 2,858.4 kJ, and the efficiency of the developed machine was evaluated to be 70.6%. This implies that the developed machine is capable of drying the three varieties of vegetable leaves used for this study to a required moisture content to avoid waste and reduce high prices when out of season, among other benefits.
Keywords: Vegetable, dryer, design, fabrication, heat.
PaperID: FJET_12_40_33
Page: 342-353
Author(s): Adekunle O. ADEWOLE, Ayodeji O. ARIYO
Abstract: The growing demand for intelligent energy management has accelerated the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in smart metering. This paper presents the development of an edge-enabled IoT smart energy meter with AI-based load prediction for device-level monitoring. The system employs a PZEM-004T sensor for measurement of voltage, current, power, energy, and frequency, while a Raspberry Pi serves as the edge device for local processing and storage. A machine learning framework was trained on three months of data and evaluated using k-fold cross-validation. Results show that Linear Regression achieved the highest accuracy (R²: 0.993±0.001, MAE: 0.041, RMSE: 0.051) with minimal training (0.0017 s), inference time, and model size (0.05 MB). Random Forest also performed well (R²: 0.990) but required higher computation, while KNN (R²: 0.920) and LSTM (R²: 0.602) were less efficient. SHAP-based analysis confirmed that temporal and electrical features were the most influential. The best-performing model was deployed on the Raspberry Pi and integrated with a Django-based dashboard for real-time monitoring and predictive analytics, providing a practical and efficient solution for energy management.
Keywords: Smart energy meter, edge computing, artificial intelligence, load prediction.
PaperID: FJET_12_41_34
Page: 354-366
Author(s): Abubakar S. MOHAMMED, Aliyu MOHAMMED, Mohammed U. GARBA, Mohammed I. SHABA, Ibrahim A. KUTI, Meshack I. SIMEON, Olalekan D. ADENIYI, Umar MUSA, Abubakar G. ISAH, Peter A. ADEOYE
Abstract: The development of eco-friendly biosolid produced from sugar-cane bagasse for efficient energy utilisation was undertaken. The study investigates the production of carbonised briquettes using selected biomass wastes: coconut husk (CH), corn cob (CC), and sugarcane bagasse (SB) with African locust bean pod powder as a binder. The biomass wastes were carbonised through pyrolysis at 400 oC for 6 hrs to produce biochar. A compressive force of 20 kN was applied to the biochar in a cylindrical mould to provide adequate compaction for a desired briquette. Physical, thermal, and combustion characteristics of the biochar were examined. Experimental samples were prepared based on the recommended Standard Methods. Unblended biochar (CH, CC, SB) is classified as 100; whereas, for the blended, 50% mix ratio of CH/CC, CH/SB, and CC/SB. For the three blends CH/CC/SB, a ratio of 33.33% each was employed. Tests were conducted to measure density, moisture content, ash content, hydrophobicity, combustion rate, ignition time, and calorific value. Results showed that CH briquettes had the highest density (1.35 g/cm³), while SB had the least (0.67 g/cm³). Corn cob demonstrated the lowest ash content (9.90%) compared to SB (14.87%) and CH (13.13%), indicating its suitability for clean combustion with less residue. Among blended briquettes, the CH/CC mixture achieved a moderate density of 0.73 g/cm³, and CH/SB achieved 0.97 g/cm³. Moisture content was lowest for CH/CC/SB (6.33%). The hydrophobicity test revealed that CC briquettes exhibited the highest hydrophobicity (26.08%), while CH had the lowest (18.26%). Combustion tests indicated that the CH/CC/SB blend had balanced performance in terms of ignition and combustion rates, making it a viable biosolid for fuel. Corn cob proved to be the best for clean, efficient combustion, while blended briquettes offered a good balance of strength, moisture content, and ash content. These findings highlight the potential of utilizing agricultural waste for green energy, offering a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
Keywords: Biomass waste, biosolid fuel, briquettes, calorific value, green-energy generation, locust bean pod.
PaperID: FJET_12_42_35
Page: 367-376
Author(s): Oyeymi T. AFOROLAGBA-BALOGUN, Olumide A. TOWOJU
Abstract: The escalating accumulation of plastic waste, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and Polyamide (PA), poses significant environmental challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature and the limitations of conventional disposal methods. Pyrolysis, a thermochemical decomposition process conducted in the absence of oxygen, offers a promising alternative by converting plastic waste into valuable liquid fuels, gases, and char. This technique not only helps to mitigate the environmental burden of plastic pollution but also contributes to the circular economy by recovering energy-rich products from post-consumer polymers. This study explores the potential of pyrolysis as a sustainable thermochemical process to convert PET and PA waste into valuable liquid fuels. The resulting fuels were subjected to comprehensive characterization to assess their physicochemical properties. Comparative analyses between PET and PA-derived fuels were performed to evaluate their respective properties and potential applications. The findings revealed that the PET-PA blended oil yielded slightly higher calorific value (47.55 MJ/kg) compared to pure PA oil (46.75 MJ/kg), indicating a richer energy profile. However, the PA oil showed superior fuel behavior in terms of volatility and ignition with a lower flash point and higher fire point PET/PA (13.74 ºC and 263 ºC) as compared to the PA(15.82 °C and 294 °C). The volatile content of both oils was comparably high (85.5%), but the fixed carbon and ash contents were lower in the PET-PA blend, suggesting cleaner combustion. Additionally, both fuels showed density values (1.12 g/cm³ for PA and 1.10 g/cm³ for PET/PA) above conventional gasoline which is (0.71-0.77 g/cm3), indicating higher molecular weight fractions. The sulphur content remained under 1% in both cases. These results demonstrate the feasibility of transforming plastic waste into usable liquid fuel, contributing to both sustainable waste management and alternative energy generation. The findings indicate that pyrolysis offers a viable pathway for mitigating plastic pollution while contributing to sustainable energy production, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Keywords: Nylon-derived liquid fuel, plastic waste management, polyethylene terephthalate, pyrolysis, thermochemical conversion.
PaperID: FJET_12_43_36
Page: 377-388
Author(s): Bala I. ABDULKARIM, Yusuf M. BABA, Suleiman I. ENEHE, Kamoru A. SALAM, Umar IDRISS
Abstract: This study synthesized activated carbon from corn cobs, an abundant agricultural waste, for efficient lead (Pb²⁺) removal from water. The corn cobs were washed, dried, crushed, and carbonized at 550 °C under nitrogen, followed by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide (KOH) at a 1:2 impregnation ratio. The activated material was dried, washed to pH 5, and sieved to 1–2 mm particles. The derived activated carbon was characterized using Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis. Proximate analysis of raw corn cobs revealed 9.7% moisture, 2.09% ash, 78.37% volatile matter, and 9.2% fixed carbon. TGA/DTA identified key decomposition stages, with optimal carbon yield at 550 °C. FTIR confirmed the presence of functional groups (e.g., hydroxyl, carbonyl) critical for adsorption, while BET analysis indicated a high surface area of 776.98 m²/g. Packed-bed column experiments evaluated the effects of adsorbent dose, pH, initial Pb²⁺ concentration, and contact time. Optimal Pb²⁺ removal occurred at pH 5, an initial concentration of 10 mg/L, an adsorbent dose of 3 g/L, and a contact time of 2 hours. The adsorption process followed the Langmuir isotherm model (R² = 0.9998), suggesting monolayer adsorption, while kinetics adhered to the pseudo-second-order model, indicating chemisorption dominance. The results demonstrate the potential of corn cob-derived activated carbon as a sustainable and effective adsorbent for Pb²⁺ remediation in wastewater.
Keywords: Activated carbon, corncob, equilibrium adsorption, lead (Pb2+), packed bed adsorption column.
PaperID: FJET_12_44_37
Page: 389-401
Author(s): Samuel E. CHUKWU, Martins Y. OTACHE, Precious O. ATEMOAGBO, Emmanuel O. AGBESE
Abstract: Effective drought management in vulnerable semi-arid regions necessitates a comprehensive understanding of drought characteristics and their interdependencies, crucial for proactive water resource planning and risk assessment. This study addresses the critical gap in bivariate drought modelling for the Sokoto-Rima River Basin, Northern Nigeria, by employing a copula-based approach to analyse the Severity-Duration-Frequency (SDF) relationship. Utilising historical monthly rainfall data (1945-2015), the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI-6) was identified as the optimal timescale for hydrological drought characterisation. Drought severity and duration marginal distributions were best fitted by the Generalised Extreme Value (GEV) and Lognormal distributions, respectively. A strong positive correlation (Kendall's τ=0.7599) was established between drought severity and duration. The Survival (BB8) copula emerged as the most efficient dependence structure, demonstrating superior goodness-of-fit (lowest RMSE: 0.0023, AIC: -82.9876, BIC: -79.0850) and accurately capturing the joint probability distribution. Tail dependence analysis using the Capéraa, Fougères, and Genest (CFG) estimator revealed a weak upper tail dependence coefficient (0.001), indicating that while individual extreme events are common, the simultaneous occurrence of extremely severe and prolonged droughts is historically less probable. The derived bivariate SDF curves offer a robust tool for probabilistic risk assessment, quantifying the likelihood of specific drought severity-duration combinations for various return periods. This research provides invaluable insights for developing advanced drought early warning systems and informing sustainable water resource management and climate change adaptation strategies in data-scarce, drought-prone environments.
Keywords: Drought, climate, copula, Nigeria, severity and duration.
PaperID: FJET_12_45_38
Page: 402-416
Title: Gamma Shielding Capabilities of Some Selected Materials Within Ibadan Metropolis
Author(s): Oluwadare J. AKINDUGBAGBE, Owojori ADEFOPE, Agbenyi EMMANUEL, Adebo BABATUNDE
Abstract: Conventional gamma shielding materials like lead are effective but present limitations related to cost, weight, and fabrication have prompted the need for locally accessed shielding materials. This study evaluates the gamma shielding potential of four locally-sourced materials; sawdust composite, acrylic, clay, and glass readily available within Ibadan metropolis. The elemental composition of each material was determined using ICP-OES and CHNO analyzers. Shielding parameters including linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), half-value layer (HVL), tenth-value layer (TVL), mean free path (MFP), and lead equivalence were estimated theoretically at 661 keV (Cs-137). Experimental HVL values were determined from the spectral response of NaI(Tl) gamma detector as gamma photons from a standard Cs-137 source was attenuated using the locally-sourced materials. From the result of the study, Glass had the highest estimated LAC (0.169 cm⁻¹), followed by clay (0.159 cm⁻¹), sawdust composite (0.153 cm⁻¹), and acrylic (0.095 cm⁻¹). Theoretical HVL values for glass, sawdust composite, clay and acrylic were estimated at 4.10 cm. 4.54 cm, 4.37 cm and 7.31 cm respectively. Experimental HVL values obtained for glass, sawdust composite, clay and acrylic differed from theoretical values by 3.73%, 0.87%, 2.99 % and 11.73%. Glass exhibited the lowest theoretical TVL (13.62 cm) and MFP (5.92 cm), indicating its superior shielding performance. In addition, a total thickness of about 55 cm would be needed to shield the gamma radiation from an active Cs-137 source completely and about 98 cm thickness of acrylic material to shield from the Cs-137 source completely. Due to its density, clay and sawdust may offer more practical alternatives for field use as they are optimally efficient in thicknesses. These findings suggest that locally sourced non-metallic materials can provide viable alternatives to conventional shielding materials in certain gamma radiation environments.
Keywords: Gamma shielding, linear attenuation coefficient, Ibadan, glass, acrylic, clay, sawdust.
PaperID: FJET_12_46_39
Page: 417-424
Author(s): Yusuf M. YAHAYA
Abstract: Many undergraduate students in the Department of Technology Education at Bayero University, Kano, exhibit reluctance toward answering sketch-based questions, potentially hindering their engagement and understanding in subjects requiring visual representation. This study explores the underlying causes of this trend, focusing on factors such as self-perceived confidence in sketching abilities, clarity of instructional guidance, perceived relevance to learning outcomes, and fear of peer or instructor judgment. A structured survey questionnaire was administered to 147 technology education undergraduates using a random sampling method. The study reveals that insufficient practice, time constraints, and inadequate instructional support are the primary contributors to declining sketching proficiency. Findings suggest that integrating regular hand sketching exercises into the curriculum, providing timely and constructive feedback, and fostering an encouraging classroom environment can enhance students’ willingness to engage visually. These interventions may ultimately improve both academic performance and creative problem-solving skills in technology-related disciplines. The study emphasises the importance of reinforcing foundational visual communication skills in contemporary technology education programs.
Keywords: Freehand sketch competence, technology education.
PaperID: FJET_12_47_40
Page: 425-435
Title: Optical and Structural Properties of Er/Sr Co-Doped αMnS Films Prepared by Chemical Spray Pyrolysis
Author(s): Onyeka E. NNANYELUGO, Peter O. OFFOR, Cyril OCHERI, Camillus S. OBAYI
Abstract: Erbium/Srontium (Er/Sr) co-doped manganese sulphide (MnS) thin films were synthesized via chemical spray pyrolysis and characterized using UV-Vis, SEM/EDS, FTIR, and XRD. Optimal optical properties were observed at 10ml Er/Sr doping, with a reduced bandgap of 2.33 eV and improved absorbance. SEM revealed enhanced grain connectivity, while XRD confirmed the retention of the cubic structure. These results suggest potential applications in optoelectronics. These films were made from a precursor solution containing 0.8451M manganese (II) sulphate (MnSO4.H2O), 0.1M thioacetamide (CH3CSNH2), 0.85M strontium hydroxide (Sr (OH)2), and 0.95M Erbium (III) chloride hexahydrate (ErCl3.6H2O), which were spray-coated on a glass substrate at constant temperature of 300°C. The samples were characterized using different techniques such as scanning electron microscope (SEM)/EDS, UV-Visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The SEM and EDS analysis showed that moderate doping (≤10%) enhances grain connectivity and crystal growth of the sample, making it more compact with better crystallinity. The EDS indicates the elements in wt% (%), the elemental composition, such as Mn, S, Er, and Sr. The UV-Visible spectroscopy study revealed an improved optical property for all the samples, but it's more prominent in the sample synthesized with 10ml Er/Sr. The FTIR result showed that some functional groups like C=O, C–H, N–H, S-O, Mn-S, and O-H were present. As revealed by XRD analysis revealed the physical interpretation of the crystal planes (111), (220), (200), (311), and (222), respectively.
Keywords: Erbium/strontium, doped, thin film, chemical, spray pyrolysis.
PaperID: FJET_12_48_41
Page: 436-441
Title: A Review on Vehicular Ad Hoc Network (VANET) Security challenges and Solutions
Author(s): Lawal B. IDRIS
Abstract: Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs), enable communication between moving vehicles called nodes and roadside infrastructures. These communications are meant to increase driver assistance, efficiency, and traffic safety. From a security and privacy perspective, the vehicles in these systems are open to Sybil, DoS or DDoS attacks. The main areas of concern in VANETs are security and privacy of users. This research was aimed at reviewing security issues in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs), taking a closer look at how these networks are struggling with real-world threats. It examined a range of incidents recently reported and various ways attackers get into these networks and identifying vulnerabilities like insider attacks, denial-of-service (DoS), and the challenges of current cryptographic solutions. There is a clear indication that the security frameworks currently rely on are failing; insider attacks, DoS attacks, and weak encryption solutions seem to manifest themselves. However, these networks are key for vehicle communication as well as control and can seriously affect public safety. It is obvious that stronger solutions are needed to keep data and user privacy in a safe manner. Therefore, this study not only identified and explained the vulnerabilities in VANET but also offers some basic recommendations for building strong security frameworks in the networks.
Keywords: Challenges, review, security, solutions, VANETs.
PaperID: FJET_12_49_42
Page: 442-448
Author(s): Sulaiman Y. ADAMU, Fadimatu N. DABAI, Abdulazeez Y. ATTA and Baba Y. JIBRIL
Abstract: This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of hierarchical ZSM-5 and metal-doped hierarchical Zn-Ni/ZSM-5 catalysts to potentially improve the bio-oil and hydrogen production from biomass (rice husk) pyrolysis. Traditional zeolites, due to their microporous structure, often pose limitations in reactant accessibility, adversely affecting catalytic performance. To address these challenges, hierarchical zeolites incorporating mesoporosity were developed. The hierarchical ZSM-5 was synthesized via an alkaline desilication process, enhancing its mesoporous characteristics, with surface area increasing from 111 m²/g to 141 m²/g and average pore size expanding from 2 nm to 5 nm. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), confirmed the retention of the MFI-type zeolite framework post-modification. The findings indicate that the hierarchical structure has the potential to enhance mass transfer and reactant accessibility, making these catalysts promising candidates for the reforming of biomass pyrolysis products, which can lead to sustainable bio-oil and hydrogen production. This research provides a foundation for future optimization of catalyst performance and exploration of diverse biomass feedstocks, contributing to advancements in cleaner energy technologies.
Keywords: Hierarchical ZSM-5, biomass pyrolysis, bio-oil upgrading, metal-doped catalysts, desilication.
PaperID: FJET_12_50_43
Page: 449-456
Author(s): Zakariah A. ADEJOH, Hawawu SALAMI, Abdullahi M. EVUTI, Yahaya S. MOHAMMAD, Yakubu STEPHEN
Abstract: The properties of activated carbon derived from coconut shells are influenced by the activation process parameters, which include activation temperature, time, and the use of different activation agents. This study aims to investigate the effect of activation time on the physicochemical properties of activated carbon produced from coconut shells. Coconut shells were used as a precursor to prepare activated carbon, with phosphoric acid serving as the activation agent. Different samples were prepared using varying activation times of 6, 12, and 24 hours, along with a carbonization temperature of 500 °C and a time of 60 minutes. The resultant activated carbon samples were characterized using a gas sorption analyzer, SEM, and FTIR. The specific surface area of the activated carbon increased from 189 to 505.8 m2/g, and micropore volume increased from 0.146 to 0.311 cm3/g, when the activation time was increased from 6 to 24 hours, respectively. This property improvement was also confirmed by SEM and FTIR. The FTIR analysis depicts the presence of different functional groups. In conclusion, activation time affects the properties of the prepared activated carbon. The results confirmed that coconut shell is a promising low-cost precursor for the production of activated carbon, which is useful for environmental applications.
Keywords: Coconut shell, activated carbon, surface area, SEM/EDX, FTIR.
PaperID: FJET_12_51_44
Page: 457-469
Title: Development of an Agro-Waste Diesel Engine Powered Shredding Machine
Author(s): Osagie I. IHENYEN, Raymond A. EKEMUBE
Abstract: A key goal of agro-waste management is to convert agro-waste into useful products such as compost and other agro-allied applications. This study aimed to develop an agro-waste diesel engine powered shredding machine to thresh agro-wastes. A safe design approach was adopted by carefully calculating the dimensions of each part and applying appropriate engineering formulations. Material selection was based on key factors such as availability, durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of fabrication. Factors considered to enhance the machine’s functionality and efficiency were cost consideration, load capacity, material selection, power source reliability, and maintenance strategy. The developed machine threshes the wastes into usable sizes using sharp rotating and stationary blades, which apply mechanical impact, shearing, and cutting action to break down the agro-wastes into smaller particles. The diesel-powered shredding machine with a 5-hp, 850 rpm engine achieved a throughput capacity of 92,400 m³, operating with a maximum shear force of 254,418 N and a shredding efficiency of 93.73%. The shredded agro-waste showed a particle size reduction ranging from 50% to 99.09% within the 0.01–12 mm average size group, with palm bark producing two distinct output sizes after shredding. An average fuel consumption of 1 litre/hour was recorded and there was no overheating observed during the process. The machine is suitable for small-scale farmers by offering an affordable and accessible solution. Additionally, the use of locally sourced materials highlighted its cost-effectiveness and adaptability for rural applications.
Keywords: Agro-waste, diesel powered, shredding, size reduction, small scale, energy consumption, throughput capacity.
PaperID: FJET_12_52_45
Page: 470-482
Title: Incidents of Flood Disaster in Kaduna: Preventive and Mitigating Measures
Author(s): Peter EDOKA
Abstract: This study examines the causes, impacts, and management of flood disasters in Kaduna, Nigeria, with a focus on preventive and mitigating measures. The research addresses the persistent challenge of flooding in the region, particularly the non-compliance of residents with early warnings to relocate. The study aimed to identify the primary causes and patterns of flooding, pinpoint the most affected areas, and evaluate the effectiveness of current preventive and mitigation strategies. The methodology involved collecting primary data through questionnaires from 50 residents in four flood-prone communities in Chikun and Kaduna North Local Government Areas. Secondary data was gathered from sources such as the IOM and NiMET. Key findings show that the main causes of flooding are blocked drainage (38%), poor waste disposal (26%), and heavy rainfall (20%). The most severe impacts reported were property damage (31.5%) and temporary relocation (25.2%). The study also revealed a disparity in the perceived effectiveness of response agencies. The Nigerian Red Cross and NiMET were rated as highly effective, while the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) were seen as having a limited or moderate impact. Community-level strategies primarily involved regular drain cleaning (30.6%) and community sensitization (25.5%). The study contributes to existing knowledge by providing a localized, evidence-based assessment of flood dynamics in Kaduna. It highlights the gaps between official strategies and the on-ground realities faced by affected communities. The recommendations are intended to guide improved flood disaster management, planning, and policy decisions.
Keywords: Flood disaster, Kaduna, preventive measures, mitigation strategies, disaster management, community response.
PaperID: FJET_12_53_46
Page: 483-490
Title: Development of a Wearable Fall Sensing Device for Enhanced Independent Living Among the Elderly
Author(s): Olusola K. AKINDE, Abolaji O. ILORI, Habeeb A. ARIKEWUYO
Abstract: Unwitnessed falls among elderly people which consequently has resulted in cases of fatality before caregivers are alerted for prompt response, has been a call for concern. This was the motivation for this work. It integrates a motion sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) algorithms with a web application platform that alerts caregivers. The device would measure the wearer’s physical parameters; movement speed and angular orientation through the sensors. The design makes use of two sensors; the accelerometer for measuring acceleration forces and the gyroscope for rotational motion. The adopted method includes component selection, sensor integration, data acquisition and processing, fall detection algorithm, wireless communication, user interface, power management, testing, and packaging. The test for fall sensor for elderly people was carried out by attaching the device to a mannequin to measure the accuracy of the device. The mannequin was pushed in various ways to check for accuracy when detecting various types of falls. The sensor’s data were sent to the web server (ThingSpeak) at 15s intervals for visualization by the user and to enhance storage of data about fall incidences. The readings from the MPU6050 sensor had good data precision with an average movement speed of 8.37 m/s. The readings from the sensor showed an average trigger speed of 8.05 m/s and an average execution time of 2.4 s. There is a 90% accuracy in the detection of fall occurrences. The use of fall sensors for fall detection has greatly improved the detection of fall occurrences among elderly people, providing a safer approach to caring for elderly people.
Keywords: Fall detection, sensors’ integration, trigger-speed, execution-time, elderly-people.
PaperID: FJET_12_54_47
Page: 491-500
Author(s): Emmanuel O. AGBENYI, Adefope OWOJORI, Oluwadare J. AKINDUGBAGBE, Babatunde ADEBO, Chigbo I. OKEREKE
Abstract: Quarry activities can be used to evaluate natural radionuclide concentrations in surrounding soil, which could pose risks to human health when cultivated crops within the quarry site are consumed. This study assessed the radiological impact on cultivated crops and soil on farm around quarry (FAQ) and farm far from quarry (FFQ), located near a quarry site in Moniya, Ibadan, Nigeria. A total of six soil samples and six cassava samples were randomly collected and analysed using a NaI(Tl) gamma-ray spectrometer. In the soil samples, (40K) activity concentrations were 412.28 ± 68.85 Bq/kg (SFAQ, S, represent Soil in this context) and 275.15 ± 22.67 Bq/kg (SFFQ), (226Ra) concentrations were 37.49 ± 10.51 Bq/kg and 53.16 ± 15.37 Bq/kg, while (232Th) recorded 32.31 ± 8.26 Bq/kg and 47.44 ± 10.14 Bq/kg for SFAQ and SFFQ respectively. In cassava, 40K concentration from 206.03 ± 108.89 Bq/kg (CFAQ, C, represent Cassava in context) and 356.89 ± 64.24 Bq/kg (CFFQ). 226Ra range from 24.57 ± 25.13 Bq/kg (CFAQ) and 41.31 ± 13.14 Bq/kg (CFFQ), while 232Th concentration were 10.51 ± 9.11 Bq/kg and 22.44 ± 9.59 Bq/kg respectively. Some 226Ra and 232Th concentrations exceeded global averages. The estimated annual effective dose from soil was 0.13 mSv/y in (SFAQ) and 0.16 mSv/y in (SFFQ), while that of cassava was 0.06 mSv/y. AED from cassava was 0.06 mSv/y in (CFAQ) and 0.12 mSv/y in (CFFQ). Radium equivalent activity (Raeq) values were below the 370 Bq/kg safety limit: 115 Bq/kg (SFAQ), 142 Bq/kg (SFFQ), 55 Bq/kg (CFAQ), and 101 Bq/kg (CFFQ). The estimated annual effective dose from the soil samples were above the UNSCEAR global average of 0.07 mSv/y. Although some radionuclide levels exceeded global benchmarks, the overall cancer risk associated with quarry activities in these farmlands appears low and poses no risk. However, the elevated dose values suggest the need for further investigation into potential long-term health implications for communities around the quarry site.
Keywords: Radionuclide, activity concentrations, radiological risk assessment, environmental contamination, radioactivity.
PaperID: FJET_12_55_48
Page: 501-512
Title: Treatment of Gold Mining Wastewater: A Review of Current Technologies and Future Perspectives
Author(s): Mohammed U. GARBA, Usman B. ABDULLAHI, Hayatudden S. BARAYAIS, Aisha B. FARUQ, Suleiman IDRIS, Abubakar M. MUHAMMAD, Abubakar S. MOHAMMED
Abstract: Gold mining wastewater poses significant environmental risks due to its complex composition, including high concentrations of heavy metals, cyanide, sulphates, and acidic discharges. Effective treatment before release into the environment is essential to prevent long-term ecological and public health damage. This manuscript reviews the environmental impacts of gold mining wastewater and highlights current industrial-scale treatment technologies such as SAVMIN (Sulphate Removal Process), Slurry Precipitation and Recycle Reverse Osmosis (SPARRO), Biogenic Sulphide, and DESALX, which have been successfully commercialised in gold mining operations. These technologies integrate multiple separation processes for the efficient recovery of salts and over 95% of water for reuse, supporting sustainable mining practices. In addition, the study presents modern pilot-stage systems and laboratory-scale methods, particularly adsorption-based technologies, developed for the removal and recovery of precious and toxic metals from gold mine effluents. While many adsorbents have shown high removal efficiency, challenges remain in terms of adsorbent reusability, toxic sludge management, and economic feasibility. The need for integrating treatment systems that enable the simultaneous reclamation of water and recovery of gold and other valuable metals at low concentrations is emphasised as a step toward circular mine water use. The study concludes that for long-term sustainability, future gold mining wastewater treatment must address not only contaminant removal but also resource recovery, waste minimisation, and cost-effectiveness.
Keywords: Gold mining, heavy metals, technologies, treatment, wastewater.
PaperID: FJET_12_56_49
Page: 513-525
Author(s): Muhammad M. HAMIDU, Mathew KATAMBI, Omar FARUQ
Abstract: The Nigerian power sector continues to struggle with outdated infrastructure, security related disruption, climate change disruptions, and unstable grid supply. In densely populated areas like Gwange I Ward, Maiduguri, centralized electricity systems remain inadequate, forcing residents to depend on costly diesel and petrol generators. This study aims to address this issue by optimizing a solar photovoltaic (PV)–battery energy storage system (BESS) microgrid. The system for Gwange I was designed and optimized using HOMER Pro v3.14, integrating load estimation, solar resource analysis, component sizing, technical performance and economic analysis into the methodological framework. Simulation results indicate that the proposed configuration comprising a 1,085 kW PV array and 1,172 kWh of usable battery storage achieves renewable penetration above 660% and delivers an annual generation of approximately 1.95 GWh. The system's competitiveness against diesel alternatives is confirmed by economic analysis, with a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of ₦28.68/kWh and a payback period of 2.3 years. The study also highlights the importance of thermal effects on system performance, revealing a 2.7% drop in annual PV output due to temperature increase. Environmentally, noise and air pollution are reduced, and annual CO₂ emissions are reduced by over 1,300 metric tonnes. The study confirms that decentralized solar microgrids with resilience-focused design offer a sustainable, reliable route to urban electrification in weak and climate-sensitive contexts, thus directing policy for microgrid deployment and integration of thermal management.
Keywords: Solar PV microgrid, battery energy storage, techno-economic optimization, Homer Pro software.
PaperID: FJET_12_57_50
Page: 526-534
Author(s): Sheidu S. ONIMISI, Usman B. ABDULLAHI, Hayatudden S. BARAYAIS, Abubakar M. MUHAMMAD, Abubakar G. ISAH, Abubakar S. MOHAMMED, Mohammed U. GARBA
Abstract: Understanding the potential causes and consequences of orifice plate failure is essential for maintaining accurate flow measurement and preventing operational disturbances. In certain cases, Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) problem is bound to occur overtime due to fluid pressure such as buckling failure can occur in orifice plates, leading to inaccurate flow measurements and potential safety hazards. orifice plates can easily fail leading to partial or complete shutdown of the entire line which in some cases could be a major line, leading to slow output from the industry. Therefore, this study focuses on the evaluation of orifice plate performance and safety in natural gas pipelines utilizing computer-aided engineering (CAE). The orifices were modeled with Solidworks and simulated with Midas NFX using two ways FSI interface of the software. The investigation was conducted for 10,800 seconds in CFD component and 100 seconds for 60 steps in FEA component of the FSI. The buckling load factor of the orifice plates were 1.1317, 0.5056 and 0.200 for 101.6 mm, 127 mm and 152.4 mm orifice plates respectively and a predicted service life of 501 days, 235 days and 195 days for the orifice plates, respectively, The validation with data from the real plant show that the prediction was about 90% accurate.
Keywords: Orifice, buckling, fluid structure interaction, buckling load factor, deformation.
PaperID: FJET_12_58_51
Page: 535-541
Title: Waste Management in Bauchi Metropolis: Solid Measure and Characterization in Municipality
Author(s): Samaila J. EL-PATEH, Ibrahim IDRIS
Abstract: The research examined waste management in order to prevent diseases in the Bauchi city, Bauchi local government in Bauchi state of Nigeria by technical and scientific approach to utilized generated solid of waste; that is physical composition of refuse dumped out of small, medium enterprises and communities. The study exhausted more than twelve-week when conducting questionnaire, interviews and survey that employed in the collection of the required data. According to National Population Commission (2006) population of Bauchi metropolis and its environs has growth rate of 3.2% annually which identified different percentage embedded to solid waste disposals; composition of dirt, ash and other unidentified objects was 20.2%, paper/cardboard 14.1%, nylon and polythene 16.4%, garden leaves 13.5%, food waste 11.6% while tin cans/metals were 5.1%, textile/fabrics 6.2%, plastic/rubber 6.8% and lastly glass and ceramics waste 6.1%. Over 80% of the waste fraction has the potential for recovery into other products; with this, 42.4% could be recycled and 51.56% suitable for biological conversions such as composting and anaerobic digestion, expected solid waste accumulated in Bauchi capital city daily was 0.30 kg/cap/day, the solid waste management studies may guide stakeholders to pick positive decisions on waste management options.
Keywords: Solid waste, waste characterization, waste components, household waste.
PaperID: FJET_12_59_52
Page: 542-550
Title: Bio-Inspired Flight Mechanisms for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: An Overview
Author(s): Muyideen O. MOMOH, Emmanuel I. AWODE, Gowon SULE, Umar ABUBAKAR, Ikechukwu O. ALUM, Usman K. AMINU
Abstract: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have garnered immense attention due to their versatility and wide-ranging applications. Notwithstanding their wide range applications, UAVs flight capabilities are still limited compared to natural flyers like birds, insects and bats. The field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) continues to evolve rapidly, driven by need for enhanced performance, autonomy and efficiency. To enhance the flight capabilities of UAVs, researchers have turned to nature for inspiration, studying the flight mechanisms of birds, insects and bats. Bio-inspired flight mechanisms offer a promising solution to improving UAV performance. Exploring these solutions will go a long way in designing and manufacturing UAVs that will have better and improved features to what is currently obtainable. This paper delves into the investigation of bio-inspired flight mechanisms for UAVs, exploring examples from nature and referencing relevant literature to provide insights into the potential applications and advancements in UAV technology geared towards improving the UAV agility, stability and endurance. This study also focuses on applications of bio-inspired UAVs in some notable areas such as search and rescue operations, environmental monitoring, agriculture, surveillance and reconnaissance amongst others.
Keywords: Bio-inspired UAV, natural flyers, flight mechanism, biomechanics, surveillance and reconnaissance.
PaperID: FJET_12_60_53
Page: 551-569
Author(s): Abubakar A. IBRAHIM, Fatimah Y. GARBA, Fatimah A. MUHAMMAD, Ismail B. ADEFESO, Bello A. ISAH, Jacob OLAYIWOLA
Abstract: Polymers have been widely used by mankind for centuries in the form of textiles, ammunition, coatings, and adhesives. With the industrial revolution came widespread applications in plastic packaging, construction and electronics, as well as medical and agricultural applications. Their increased use has resulted in environmental pollution, triggering the search for innovative and eco-friendly bioengineered alternatives. This paper studies the industrial and biomedical applications of Polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), which are bioengineered polymers designed to harness favourable characteristics of natural and synthetic polymers while minimizing undesirable environmental implications. These bioengineered polymers are commonly utilized in the production of biodegradable packaging materials for reduced environmental pollution and in medical capsules for safe and targeted drug delivery. The study showed that polylactic acid is more suited to applications in packaging and fabrication due to its chemical similarity with fossil-based counterparts such as polyvinyl chloride and polypropylene, while polyhydroxyalkanoates find greater application in pharmaceutical and medical applications due to their biocompatibility and degradation in animal or cell hosts. Both PLA and PHB were found to feature promising industrial prospects due to rising demands influenced by increased environmental awareness. However, their large-scale adoption is threatened by high production costs and scalability challenges which can be addressed by further research on efficient resource utilization, property enhancement and process optimization.
Keywords: Biopolymers, bioengineered polymers, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polyhydroxybutyrate.
PaperID: FJET_12_61_54
Page: 570-576
Author(s): Sati C. NSHOL, Saeed Y. UMAR, Suleiman A. YERO
Abstract: Highways have high capital costs, which include the cement or lime used in soil hardening. However, alternative construction materials such as recycled plastic can be used to reduce the cost and mitigate the effect of environmental pollution by plastic disposal. This study aimed at improving the engineering properties of road base course soil materials with Cement of 2% and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) of size 10mm x 5mm with (0.2-0.5) % inclusion. The soil was obtained from Dungulbi borrow pit at latitude 10.27485990N, longitude 9.95061660E, and Altitude 550m in Bauchi L.G.A of Bauchi State. The design expert software used for the experiment gave rise to 13 mix proportions. The chemical analysis of the soil revealed that, the soil is laterite due the silica sesquioxide (S-S) ratio of 1.25. The soil is classified as A-7-6 group in accordance with the American Association of State Highways and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Soil classification system classified it as CL with group index (GI) of 17. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) value of 673kN/m2 for stabilized soil with cement and PET indicated an improvement compared with natural soil value of 394kN/m2 the California bearing ratio (CBR) for unsoaked and soaked with the value of 79% and 29% respectively, compared to the natural soil of 25% and 13% respectively, which indicates an adequate improvement in the bearing capacity of stabilized soil. Optimization value of factors responses and desirability are PET, 10.5%, Cement 2%, CBR unsoaked 74%, and soaked 26%. The UCS, at 28days is 671kN/m2 with desirability value of 0.8. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that F-value was 147.88 with P-value less than 0.0001 which indicated that the un soaked CBR quadratic model of stabilized soil is significant. The same applicable to soaked and UCS of 28 days. This research work can aid in solving two current problems of the modern world: pollution reduction of PETS and using them to improve the engineering properties of weak soils.
Keywords: Stabilization, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), cement, soil.
PaperID: FJET_12_62_55
Page: 577-585
Title: Wastewater Analysis Using Kubota Membrane Bioreactor System
Author(s): Mukhtar N. YAHYA, Sohaib ALHAJHUSSEIN
Abstract: Wastewater treatment plays a crucial role in daily life, serving as a process that addresses and eliminates multiple environmental and health issues through proper testing and control. Its primary goal is to ensure that wastewater can be disposed of safely, without threatening public health and with little to no impact on natural water bodies. Effective treatment helps minimize or eliminate pollutants, which not only supports industrial activities economically but also reduces toxic elements, solid waste, and raw material losses. This leads to lower purchase and management costs, improved efficiency, higher profits, better community relations, and enhanced environmental performance. The purpose of this study was to expand knowledge of wastewater treatment, including its chemical and biological characteristics, as well as overall water quality. It also provided hands-on experience in designing, building, and operating a lab-scale wastewater treatment plant. A key focus was on optimizing techniques - such as scouring - to reduce membrane fouling. The project involved setting up a pilot-scale treatment plant modeled after the Kubota MBR system, which uses flat-plate thin-film composite membranes, and running it with synthetic wastewater prepared from a standard recipe. Over a six-week period, treatment parameters such as Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), pH, temperature, turbidity, and nutrients were monitored. Consistent flux outputs were obtained across different membrane conditions. Findings showed that Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and nitrate levels are inversely proportional to Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS), while COD and turbidity are directly proportional to MLSS. All measured parameters were consistent with the results reported by previous studies and experts in the field of wastewater treatment.
Keywords: Wastewater treatment, MBR system, Kubota MBR system, pollutants.
PaperID: FJET_12_63_56
Page: 586-596
Author(s): Danladi K. GARBA, Emmanuel O. AWEDA, Nuhu A. ADEMOH, Fredrick NGOLEMASANGO, Pascal A. UBI, Akor TERNGU, Lawal KABIR, Shuaibu O. YAKUBU
Abstract: This study investigated the effects of gum Arabic and banana pseudostem sap matrix in a 50-50 mix on the water absorption and hardness of a composite reinforced with banana pseudostem ash nanoparticles. The banana pseudostem fibre was first treated with a 0.5% sodium hydroxide solution and dried at room temperature. The treated fibres were then calcinated in a muffle furnace at 800 °C to produce banana pseudostem ash, which was subsequently reduced to nanoparticle size using a ball mill. The resulting ash was characterized using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Composite samples were produced by integrating the banana pseudostem ash as a reinforcement material with a gum Arabic matrix at various mix ratios, and the physical properties of hardness and water absorption were tested. The characterization results confirmed the ash's suitability for reinforcement, showing a crystalline structure largely composed of hanksite (72.9%). The tests on the composite samples revealed that the reinforcement materials improved the hardness of the composites. However, the percentage of water absorbed also increased as the filler content was increased.
Keywords: Calcination, carbonization, decarbonation, X-Ray Diffraction, X-Ray Flourescence.
PaperID: FJET_12_64_57
Page: 597-606
Title: An Assessment of Power Sources for Improved Energy Supply in University of Maiduguri
Author(s): Muhammad M. HAMIDU, Abubakar M. EL-JUMMAH, Muhammad SHUWA
Abstract: University of Maiduguri makes use of Electricity supply from the National grid and diesel powered generators along site solar supply. This assessment was prompted by disruptions in electricity supply, exacerbated by rising diesel prices and commercialized electricity tariffs. The study aims to evaluate the impact of electricity costs and reasons behind the choice of alternative power sources for the University, focusing on the comparative costs over a projected ten-year period. In order to effectively carry out the assessment, this work compares the design of the combined analysis of solar and diesel power plants to the national grid commercial supply. A methodological approach was adopted, combining quantitative data analysis with interviews to gather insights. Data was analyzed using Excel for forecast projections. The findings indicate that over ten years, the total projected costs for electricity supply are ₦90.82 billion for the national grid, ₦34.02 billion for diesel generators, and ₦21.38 billion for solar energy. While electricity from the national grid incur the highest costs, the solar system offers the most economical solution. Interviews revealed that the high costs of energy are influenced not only by direct pricing from the national grid and diesel but also by consumer behavior. Increasing awareness and educating users about energy conservation could significantly alleviate energy expenses within the university. Given these findings, it is recommended to pursue a complete installation of solar power systems at the University of Maiduguri. Furthermore, investigating hybrid power solutions, such as combining solar with wind energy, is suggested for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in electricity supply.
Keywords: Assessment, power sources, electricity supply, University of Maiduguri.
PaperID: FJET_12_65_58
Page: 607-614
Author(s): Koliya LAAYE, Solomon O. OGUCHE, Ibrahim I. JIDDA, Abdullahi A. ADAMU
Abstract: This study evaluates the technical and economic viability of waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies for sustainable electricity generation in Jalingo metropolis, Taraba State, Nigeria. Two WtE pathways were assessed: (i) thermal conversion through incineration with power generation, and (ii) landfill gas (LFG) capture with reciprocating engines. Locally reported municipal solid waste (MSW) data and performance-cost ranges from literature were applied to estimate electricity potential, installed capacity, levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), net present value (NPV), and internal rate of return (IRR). The waste composition was dominated by plastics (29.67–34.67%) and agricultural residues (28–29%), followed by paper/cardboard (9.88–11.93%), textiles (4.04–9.20%), and food waste (5.66–6%). Metals (0.42–1.11%) and glass (0.90–1.30%) constituted the smallest fractions. Moisture content ranged from 25.40% at Mile Six dumpsite to 28.98% at Pantinapu; volatile matter peaked at 38.84% at Mile Six. Heat values between 6.32 and 6.68 MJ/kg confirmed the technical feasibility of incineration-based energy recovery. Electricity generation potential was estimated at 39,417.74 kWh/day from incineration and 1,644,106.24 MWh/year (≈4.5 million kWh/day) from LFG, capable of supplying approximately 17,127 and 1,957 households respectively, based on average household consumption of 840 kWh/year. Economic analysis revealed positive NPVs ($1.20–1.45 million) and IRRs of 18–79% at a tariff of N250/kWh (US $0.15), demonstrating profitability. Environmental assessment indicated that methane combustion for electricity reduced carbon dioxide emissions by about 88.18% compared to uncontrolled waste disposal. The findings highlight that municipal solid waste in Jalingo possesses sufficient energy content to support WtE initiatives. Both incineration and LFG capture not only offer substantial electricity generation potential but also present economically viable and environmentally sustainable alternatives to current waste management practices.
Keywords: Incineration, landfill gas, LCOE, techno-economic, waste-to-energy.
PaperID: FJET_12_66_59
Page: 615-626
Author(s): Ojochide P. DAMIAN, Fadimatu N. DABAI, Abdulwasiu ABDURRAHMAN, Kamiludeen OLANREWAJU, Bilyamin ABDULMUMIN, Grace A. OLUGBENGA
Abstract: This project study compares two initiator dosing strategies, Single Stage Initiator Dosing (SSID) and Multi Stage Initiator Dosing (MID), for producing expandable polystyrene (EPS) via free radical polymerization, simulated using Aspen HYSYS. The analysis focused on reaction kinetics, molecular weight distribution (MWD), yield, energy consumption, and environmental performance. Both strategies achieved polydispersity indices (PDI) close to 2.0, confirming the expected behavior of free radical polymerization. SSID produced longer polymer chains (Mn = 15,342.9 g/mol; Mw = 30,372.2 g/mol), which may enhance mechanical strength but reduce foam uniformity. In contrast, MID achieved a uniform PDI of 2.00 with shorter chains, offering tighter control and more consistent foam properties. SSID required less energy due to its simpler setup, whereas MID consumed slightly more energy because of longer residence times. However, MID outperformed SSID environmentally by minimizing unreacted styrene and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. The simulation indicated that neither method produced toxic liquid waste. Overall, the results highlight MID as the more robust and scalable pathway for modern EPS production, offering a balanced approach to efficiency, product consistency, and sustainability. Nevertheless, SSID remains relevant in contexts where simpler setups and strict control over chain length are prioritized. These insights provide both quantitative and qualitative foundations for selecting initiator dosing strategies in industrial EPS process design.
Keywords: Aspen HYSYS, expandable polystyrene, multi stage initiator dosing, single stage initiator dosing.
PaperID: FJET_12_67_60
Page: 627-638
Author(s): Mohammed A. GANA, Zaka A. MSHELIA, Isuwa S. AJI, Alhaji GUJJA, Lawan A.M. KOLO
Abstract: This study investigates foundry sands from samples deposits (A-E) to evaluate their uses for casting applications. Key properties analysed included chemical content, clay content, grain distribution (AFS-GFN), moisture content, bulk density, permeability, compression strength (CS), and refractoriness. Chemical analysis revealed high silica content (68.10% - 79.56% SiO₂) and aluminium oxide (2.68% - 20.52% Al₂O₃), meeting standards for aluminium casting. Impurities like FeO were present but within tolerable limits. Clay content varied significantly (11% - 44.5%), aligning with requirements for non-ferrous metals and specific ferrous alloys. Sieve analysis showed well-graded sands with a high percentage of fine grains (28.84% - 44.2% retained on the 63μm sieve), beneficial for surface finish. AFS-GFN values (60.55 - 90.5) were generally within the recommended range (35-90) for non-ferrous metals. Moisture content (1.9% - 5.6%) was suitable for low-temperature aluminium casting, with Permeability (80.1 - 89.1) and Green Compression Strength (60.2 - 71.5 kN/m²) fell within acceptable foundry ranges of. Refractoriness was high (1350°C - 1450 °C), indicating adequate thermal stability. The natural sands, particularly samples A, C, and D, possess suitable physico-chemical properties with high silica, adequate refractoriness with appropriate permeability, and strength for casting practice, especially for non-iron metals and specific ferrous alloys like light grey iron. Sample B's higher fines content and lower GFN suggest for small-scale and high precision casting.
Keywords: American Foundry Society (AFS), Green Compression Strength (GCS), yield strength (YS), grain size (GS).
PaperID: FJET_12_68_61
Page: 639-648
Author(s): Chinemeogo C. OZIOKO, Ikechukwu C.-E. IKE-EZE, Nnanyelugo O. EDWIN, Dimelu K. EBUBE, Charles MBOHWA
Abstract: This experimental study explores the mechanical, thermal and morphological (SEM), properties of waste toner powder reinforced polyester composite, with an emphasis on its applicability in industrial settings. The research investigates the potential of waste toner powder, an abundant industrial by product, as a reinforcing agent in polyester composites which was made using the hand lay-up method. 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 weight percent of waste toner loading were used to create the composite. The results of the tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness tests were compared for waste toner/polyester composites and unsaturated polyester with varying weight % loading. The results showed better enhancement in mechanical properties at 15wt. % of waste toner reinforcement. TGA and DTA was also observed to have 15% loading possessing better thermal stability than others. Morphological features of the composites were scrutinized using SEM. The results provide important new information about using waste toner powder as an economical and sustainable filler in polyester composites. presenting promising avenues for a diverse array of industrial applications.
Keywords: Waste toner powder, polyester composite, mechanical properties, thermal analysis, sustainable materials.
PaperID: FJET_12_69_62
Page: 649-657
Author(s): Muhammad M. HAMIDU
Abstract: This study presents a MATLAB-developed computational model for estimating the optimum solar photovoltaic (PV) tilt angle and tilted for harnessing solar radiation for Maiduguri, Nigeria, using measured data from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). The study tackles the lack of tilt angle optimization frameworks and region-specific MATLAB-based solar radiation models for Maiduguri's semi-arid climate, which restricts the effectiveness of PV system design and implementation. The objectives of this work are to create a MATLAB-based simulation for estimating the best tilt and solar radiation, validate the model using actual NiMet data, and assess seasonal variations and energy gains that tilt optimization could provide. Solar geometry equations and the concepts of isotropic sky radiation were used to implement the model in MATLAB. The model calculated the corresponding tilted radiation, clearness index, and energy gain after processing monthly global horizontal irradiance data. The statistical results show that the modeled values are in good agreement with the measured data. The Mean Bias Error (0.183 kWh/m²/day) is very small, indicating minimal deviation between the two sets of values. The Root Mean Square Error (0.256 kWh/m²/day) is also low, suggesting that the overall difference between modeled and measured values is minor compared to the average daily solar radiation. The Coefficient of Determination (R² = 0.627) shows that the model explains about 63% of the variation in the measured data, which is considered an acceptable level of accuracy in solar radiation modeling. According to the MATLAB results, the ideal tilt angles ranged from 10.6° during the rainy season to 21.8° during the dry season, with an average yearly energy gain of 3.9% when compared to horizontal surfaces. The results validate the model's dependability in semi-arid climates and are consistent with earlier research conducted in northern Nigeria. The research revealed that the MATLAB-based model can improve Maiduguri PV system performance and effectively improve solar energy estimation. Future studies should include dust attenuation and anisotropic radiation models for increased accuracy during the Harmattan period, and the model should be incorporated into HOMER Pro and AI-driven optimization tools.
Keywords: Solar radiation, MATLAB model, optimum tilt angle, Maiduguri, PV system optimization.
PaperID: FJET_12_70_63
Page: 658-663
Title: Beyond Overload: Assessing Cognitive Load to Facilitate Learning Transfer in Virtual Environments
Author(s): Usman A. ABDURRAHMAN, Abubakar A. ROGO, Abdulkadir A. BICHI, Akibu M. ABDULLAHI
Abstract: Learning transfer, the ability to apply knowledge to new situations, is a foundation of effective education. It involves applying what one has learned in a previous situation to solve problems or navigate new environments. However, this process can fail when a new challenge overwhelms our cognitive resources. Because working memory has a limited capacity, extraneous mental demands can cause overload, hampering performance. This study investigates this phenomenon by measuring the cognitive load of undergraduate students during an immersive virtual reality (VR) driving simulation. We used real-time physiological indicators, pupil diameter and heart rate, to assess the students' mental workload as they performed complex driving tasks. Our analysis, which categorized different levels of cognitive load, revealed that these psychophysiological measures were directly sensitive to changes in mental demand. The results confirm that tracking physiological signals like heart rate and pupil size provides a valuable window into cognitive load, highlighting its critical role in understanding and facilitating learning transfer within realistic, simulated environments.
Keywords: Cognitive load, psychophysiological responses, driving simulator, learning transfer.
PaperID: FJET_12_71_64
Page: 664-677
Title: Production and Evaluation of Cement-Bonded Composites Board Made from Banana Pseudo Stem
Author(s): Adebola S. AKOLADE, Precious A. OLAOMOTITO, Abibat Y. ADEBIYI, Oluwatunmise P. ABOLARIN, Opeyemi I. ADETUNJI, Kola OGEDENGBE
Abstract: This study examined the viability of producing cement-bonded composites board incorporating banana pseudo-stem fibre and varying percentages of chemical additives. Mechanical and physical properties such as density, flexural strength, modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and compressive strength were evaluated to determine the optimal composition for construction materials. The results showed that density values ranged 1.418 g/cm³ to 1.847 g/cm³, with higher densities correlating to improved mechanical strength. Flexural strength increased with additive content up to 1%, with diminishing returns at 1.5%. Modulus of rupture and elasticity were highest at 1%, suggesting an optimal balance between strength and stiffness. Compressive strength peaked at 1% additive, reaching 567.52 MPa, before declining at 1.5%. In conclusion, it was found that a 1% additive level offers the best mechanical performance across most parameters, making it suitable for structural applications. These findings suggest that banana pseudo-stem fibre can be an effective raw material for sustainable construction composites, with potential applications in lightweight, non-load-bearing structures.
Keywords: Cement bonded additives, banana pseudo stem, composite board, fibre, lightweight.
PaperID: FJET_12_72_65
Page: 678-684
Title: Performance Assessment of Android Antimalware Applications: An Experimental Approach
Author(s): Lukman MOHAMMED, Victor O. WAZIRI, Ismaila IDRIS, Suleiman AHMAD
Abstract: The widespread use of Android phones has made the devices the primary target for malware authors. There are many commercial antimalware tools but they are not totally effective as android users still record high false positive rate. This research evaluates the performance of five common Android antimalware tools which include Kaspersky, BitDefender, Avira, Norton and McAfee against ten ransomware samples obtained from the AndMal2017 Android dataset. The experiment was conducted using Android Studio Emulator where each of the antimalware tool was tested to ascertain the detection rate, scan time and memory usage. Experimental results indicate that BitDefender achieved the highest detection accuracy of 90% with lowest scan time of 16.2 seconds and memory usage of 146.2MB. By providing quantitative benchmarks and an emulator-based testing framework, this research contributes practical insights for both academic and industry stakeholders in mobile cybersecurity.
Keywords: Malware, Android, Ransomware, Antimalware, detection.
PaperID: FJET_12_73_66
Page: 685-691
Author(s): Jennifer BALA, Sikiru O. SUBAIRU, Noel M. DOGONYARO, Joseph A. OJENIYI, Suleiman AHMAD
Abstract: Blockchain technology, particularly Ethereum, has revolutionized decentralized finance by enabling transparent, secure, and programmable smart contracts. However, these same features have created avenues for financial crimes such as Ponzi schemes, where fraudulent actors exploit pseudonymity and the absence of centralized oversight to deceive investors. This study develops an optimized hybrid detection model that combines eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Gated Recurrent Units (GRU) to identify Ponzi schemes in Ethereum transaction networks. The model integrates XGBoost’s capability for structured feature learning with GRU’s temporal sequence modeling to capture both static and dynamic behavioral patterns of smart contracts. Using a dataset of 3,866 labeled Ethereum contracts obtained from Kaggle, the research employed advanced preprocessing, temporal sequence enrichment, and class balancing through SMOTE-TS to mitigate data imbalance. Bidirectional optimization, incorporating attention-enhanced GRUs and Bayesian hyperparameter tuning for XGBoost, further improved learning performance and generalization. The model was evaluated using precision, recall, F1-score, ROC-AUC, and PR-AUC, achieving higher detection accuracy of 99% (F1-score = 0.945, ROC-AUC = 0.983) than standalone XGBoost or GRU models. Results demonstrate the hybrid model’s superior ability to detect temporal and statistical anomalies, reducing false negatives and improving early detection of fraudulent contracts. The approach contributes a scalable and interpretable framework for real-time Ponzi detection in blockchain ecosystems. This research not only enhances the reliability of Ethereum’s financial ecosystem but also offers regulators and developers a novel tool for proactive fraud prevention. Future work could extend this framework to multi-chain detection systems and real-time forensic monitoring.
Keywords: Ethereum Blockchain, Ponzi Scheme Detection, XGBoost, Gated Recurrent Unit, Bidirectional Optimization.
PaperID: FJET_12_74_67
Page: 692-701
Title: Design and Implementation of IOT-Based Intravenous (IV) Bag Monitoring and Alert System
Author(s): Gregory T. AKAU, Abel AIROBOMAN, Nathaniel DALLA
Abstract: Health, being a critical aspect of daily life, demands heightened attention, especially when a patient is hospitalized. In densely populated hospitals with limited nursing staff, the continuous monitoring of Intravenous (IV) fluid becomes a challenge. If the IV fluid is not properly monitored, severe consequences may arise, such as blood reflux or the entry of air bubbles into the patient's bloodstream when the fluid bottle runs dry. To address this, the project proposes the design and implementation of an IoT-based intravenous infusion monitoring and Alert System using the Huamao Communication 12 radio frequency module (HC-12) for wireless communication. The system also integrates Espressif Wi-Fi SoC ESP8266 wi-fi connectivity for real-time data transmission to the ThinkSpeak cloud platform. The hardware setup includes a load cell with an HX711 interface for continuous measurement of the IV fluid's weight, and a laser sensor positioned on the drip chamber to monitor the droplet rate. An Arduino Uno microcontroller coordinates the sensors and decision logic. When the fluid level drops below a critical threshold or the drip rate becomes abnormal, an alert is transmitted wirelessly via the RF module to a remote receiver unit (e.g., nurse’s station), where the patient's information and alert status are displayed. Additionally, the ESP8266 module uploads real-time data to the internet for remote monitoring and analytics. The performance evaluation of the prototype demonstrated a system success rate of approximately 96.8% in accurately detecting both low-fluid and abnormal drip rates. This low-cost, easily deployable system enhances patient safety by ensuring timely intervention from medical staff and is particularly suited for resource-constrained hospitals that cannot afford expensive commercial IV monitoring system.
Keywords: Intravenous (IV) monitoring, IoT-based healthcare, Arduino Uno, drip rate monitoring, ESP8266 Wi-Fi, ThingSpeak cloud, hospital automation.
PaperID: FJET_12_75_68
Page: 702-714
Author(s): Aliu S. SALIU, Ejike C. ANENE, Buhari M. HASSAN, Sabo M. HASSAN, Salisu H. MOHAMMED, Nafisa S. USMAN
Abstract: The increasing difficulty and evolution of new wireless networks, specifically with the arrival of 5G technologies, require enhanced resource allocation strategies, that can adapt well to changing conditions. Established optimization methods often lack the capacity to address the scalability, flexibility, and real-time needs of such environments. This paper particularly reviews present optimization algorithms, highlighting evolutionary and swarm intelligence techniques, with specific stress on Cultural Algorithms (CAs) and Smell Agent Optimization (SAO). To take advantage of their varied strengths, it assesses the idea of merging the CA and SAO approaches into one algorithm. Although the Smell Agent Optimization emphasizes evaluating nearby options, premised on swarm behavior; using stored knowledge, Cultural Algorithms provide general guidance. Through examining previous research gaps, limitations, and the challenges faced, in wireless resource allocation, this paper advocates a new culturally motivated smell agent algorithm, aimed at improving adaptability, efficiency, and performance, in wireless networks. The proposed approach will offer strong solutions for evolving large-scale wireless environments, as well as promising to address scalability issues and improve convergence rates This work presents a foundational basis for future research in integrating nature-inspired metaheuristics to optimize resource management in next-generation wireless systems.
Keywords: Wireless networks, resource allocation, cultural algorithms, optimization algorithms, smell agent.
PaperID: FJET_12_76_69
Page: 715-723
Author(s): Abimbola J. KOLAWOLE, AbdulKodri G. ABDULRAFIU
Abstract: Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja, recently adopted advanced technological innovations, despite the recent adoption, operational inefficiencies and passenger dissatisfaction persist. This raises concern about the effectiveness of these innovations in improving operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction at this airport. This study examined the effects of technological innovation on airport operations and passengers experience at Nnamdi Azikwe International airport Abuja, Nigeria. Data were collected through stratified random sampling from 380 passengers, population size of 5,484,839 and 376 airport operational staff with population size of 2758, through a structured questionnaire. The collected data was analysed using the descriptive and inferential statistics. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model was employed. Results on passengers show that technological innovation had a weak correlation with passenger perception and satisfaction, this was based on the holistic evaluation of the airport at (r = .015, p = .776) and with security and safety (r = .002, p = .972) while result on operational staff with (r = .051, p = .322) indicates a weak and statistically insignificant negative relationship between technological innovation and airport operations at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) this suggests that there is no strong relationship between airport operations and passenger perception on the effect of technological innovation at the airport. The study concludes that implementation of technological innovation depends on inclusion on operational staff in the adoption of technological equipment at the airport, regular staff training and continuous stakeholder engagement to overcome adoption barriers. The study recommended that, frontline staff should be involve in the selection and implementation of new technologies to aid seamless operational efficiency and passengers’ satisfaction.
Keywords: Technology, innovation, airport, operations, challenges.
PaperID: FJET_12_77_70
Page: 724-734
Author(s): Ephraim G. KEFAS, Abdulfatai JIMOH, Mohammed A. EVUTI Abubakar A. IBRAHIM, Abdulwahab GIWA, Adeola G. OLUGBENGA
Abstract: This paper focuses on characterizations of luffa sponge, banana stem and Delonix regia seed as potential resources for the development of biosorbents for heavy metals removal from industrial effluents. The selected materials were pretreated by washing, sun drying, and oven drying before being pulverized into powder. The powders were subjected to proximate, ultimate, chemical composition, SEM/EDX, FTIR, DTA/TGA and XRD analyses. Fixed carbon content ranges from 49.29±0.20%-52.34±0.02% for the samples. The carbon content values range from 65.27±0.01%-66.87±0.02%, and the Sulphur content ranges from 0.37±0.01%-0.81±0.001%. Cellulose content values of 41.64±0.002%, 40.86±0.001% and 45.24±0.001% were found for luffa sponge, banana stem and Delonix regia seed, respectively. SEM/EDX and FTIR confirm the presence of carbon, nitrogen, and potassium as the dominant elements, while OH-, C=C, C=O, C-H, and N-H as the surface functional groups in the precursors. The DTA/TGA shows that rapid weight loss for luffa sponge, Banana stem, and Delonix regia seed occurs between 300-420oC, 290-350oC, and 280-480oC, respectively. XRD revealed that the precursors are largely amorphous/semi-crystalline, predominantly amorphous, and a mixture of amorphous and crystalline, respectively. The above findings show that the selected precursors would be good resource for use as adsorbents/blends for the removal of heavy metals from industrial effluents.
Keywords: Biosorbent, characterization, effluents, heavy metals.
PaperID: FJET_12_78_71
Page: 735-745
Author(s): Shamsuddeen J. AHMAD, Saifullahi S. SADI, Muhammad M. AHMAD, Abdullahi D. UMAR, Shamsuddeen USMAN
Abstract: The exponential growth of corporate email communications poses significant challenges for digital forensic investigations because manual analysis is slow, resource-intensive, and error-prone. This study compares three machine learning algorithms: Random Forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for the detection and classification of suspicious emails. A publicly available dataset from the GitHub repository that comprises 60,000 instances was extracted. The methodology involved preprocessing the dataset by encoding categorical features and converting email body content into numerical representations using TF-IDF vectorisation, and SMOTE was used to balance the dataset. The dataset was then split into 80% (48,000 instances) for training and 20% (12,000 instances) for testing, and each classifier was trained and evaluated using performance metrics including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and AUC. The result indicates that ANN achieved the highest performance (accuracy: 99.86%, AUC: 1.00), with balanced precision and recall across “Evidence” and “Non-Evidence” classes. Random Forest also performed strongly (accuracy: 99.92%, AUC: 1.00) with high interpretability, while SVM (accuracy: 98.92%, AUC: 1.00) showed strong precision but lower recall for “Non-Evidence” emails. ANN’s superior performance is attributed to its ability to model complex patterns and handle class imbalance effectively. The findings indicate that ANN demonstrates the highest performance in classifying suspicious emails, showing superior accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.
Keywords: Machine Learning, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Artificial Neural Network, Artificial Intelligence, Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency.
PaperID: FJET_12_79_72
Page: 746-761
Author(s): Oluwasanmi S. ADANIGBO, Opeyemi O. ASAOLU, Adedayo Aladejobi SOBOWALE, Temidayo AKINDAHUNSI, Akinbayode A. ASAOLU
Abstract: This systematic literature review examines recent advances in Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs), focusing on comparative analysis of signature-based, anomaly-based, and hybrid detection approaches. Through comprehensive analysis of 52 recent journal articles published between 2024-2025, this review identifies key methodologies, performance metrics, contributions to knowledge, strengths, limitations, and research gaps in MANET security. The review reveals a significant trend toward hybrid and machine learning-enhanced approaches, with ensemble methods and deep learning models achieving detection accuracies exceeding 95%. Key findings indicate that hybrid approaches combining signature and anomaly detection offer superior performance, while challenges remain in real-time processing, scalability, and adaptive learning for dynamic network environments.
Keywords: MANET, Intrusion Detection Systems, Signature-based Detection, Anomaly-based Detection, Hybrid Detection, Machine Learning, Deep Learning.
PaperID: FJET_12_80_73
Page: 762-774
Title: Aquifer Characterisation and Vulnerability Assessment in a Typical Basement Complex Terrain
Author(s): Oluwaseun S. OGUNGBEMI
Abstract: The study employed electrical resistivity surveying using Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) at 30 locations with a Schlumberger array to evaluate the groundwater potential and aquifer vulnerability within the College of Health Technology, Ijero-Ekiti. Results were presented as maps of resistivity, aquifer thickness, overburden characteristics (TLOA), porosity, hydraulic conductivity, and transmissivity. The resistivity map identifies five zones, with low resistivity (13.105–98.285 ohm-m) in the southern and central areas, indicating shallow, saturated clay-rich aquifers that support hand-dug wells but are prone to contamination. Higher resistivity zones suggest deeper or impermeable materials with lower groundwater potential. Aquifer thickness varies from 1.602 to 11.297 m; thicker zones in the south and center support sustainable yields, while thinner margins are more vulnerable to seasonal drying and pollution. TLOA values (0.702–6.897 m) reflect protective cover; low TLOA zones are highly vulnerable, while higher TLOA regions offer better aquifer protection and long-term supply potential. Longitudinal conductance reveals that high-conductance zones (0.305–0.732 S) in the central area provide strong protection, while low-conductance zones (0.005–0.039 S) in the north and southeast are at risk of contamination. Porosity values (24.156–41.53%) indicate high-porosity zones in the center, which are ideal for groundwater development, although they are more vulnerable. In contrast, low-porosity areas may require deep or fracture-specific drilling. Hydraulic conductivity (0.745–35.276 m/day) and transmissivity (1.835–321.004 m²/day) confirm the central and southern zones as most productive. The study recommends prioritizing borehole siting in zones with high resistivity, thickness, and porosity, implementing contamination controls in vulnerable areas, and integrating multiple hydrogeological parameters for effective groundwater development.
Keywords: Water Characterisation, Basement complex, Hydrogeological mapping, Groundwater protection, Zonation analysis.
PaperID: FJET_12_81_74
Page: 775-781
Title: Design and Development of a Melon Shelling Machine
Author(s): Ojo I. ENOCK, Ibrahim A. SAIDU, Ibrahim SULAIMAN, Oluwafeyisikemi Y. ENOCK
Abstract: A melon shelling machine was designed and fabricated. The machine was designed to handle a capacity of 50 kg/hr of melons. This paper presents the design and fabrication of a melon shelling machine designed to mechanize the seed extraction process from melons. The machine was conceptualized to address the inefficiencies of manual shelling, including high labour costs and seed wastage. The power requirement was determined to be 0.6 kW and a 35 mm shaft was selected. Key features of the machine include an intake hopper, shelling unit, and a separation system, all powered by an electric motor. Fabrication used cost-effective, easily available materials, emphasizing robustness and maintenance ease.
Keywords: Agricultural Machinery, melon shelling, machine design, power requirement, seed extraction.
PaperID: FJET_12_82_75
Page: 782-794
Title: Leveraging Quantum Machine Learning for Early Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis
Author(s): Ukange N. SYBIL, Hadiza A. UMAR, Ogar M. OKO, Habeebah. A. KAKUDI, Usman MAHMUD, Alex AARON
Abstract: Ovarian cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide, largely because most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Current diagnostic tools and classical machine learning models often show limited sensitivity and specificity, particularly when applied to the complex, high-dimensional datasets required for accurate prediction. These limitations highlight the need for more powerful computational approaches capable of extracting subtle diagnostic patterns. The aim of this study is to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of ovarian cancer diagnosis by using quantum-inspired machine learning approach such as Quantum Support Vector Machines (QSVMs). The study utilized QSVMs to analyse clinical and genomic datasets, leveraging quantum mechanics principles like superposition and entanglement to process data more effectively than traditional machine learning models. The QSVM model was developed, trained, and evaluated using performance metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and processing efficiency. The results demonstrated that QSVMs achieved a diagnostic accuracy of 92%, outperforming traditional support vector machines and other classical models. Additionally, the processing time for diagnosis was reduced from 45 minutes to 20 minutes, providing a faster and more reliable workflow. The QSVMs also excelled in analysing multi-omics data, enabling the identification of early-stage ovarian cancer biomarkers and supporting personalized treatment strategies. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of QSVMs to transform ovarian cancer diagnostics by addressing key limitations of conventional methods. The findings underscore the importance of adopting quantum-inspired machine learning in medical applications and encourage further exploration of these advanced algorithms in improving healthcare outcomes.
Keywords: Ovarian cancer, Quantum Support Vector Machines (QSVMs), Quantum-inspired machine learning, Early diagnosis, machine learning.
PaperID: FJET_12_83_76
Page: 795-805
Author(s): Oluwaseun S. OGUNGBEMI
Abstract: This study investigates the groundwater potential of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria, using the Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) technique of the electrical resistivity method with a Schlumberger electrode configuration. Eight VES stations were occupied to delineate the subsurface lithological units and evaluate aquifer potential. The interpreted results indicated the presence of four to five geoelectric layers with the following ranges of resistivity and thickness: topsoil, 52.4–789.4 Ω·m and 0.3–0.8 m thick; sandy-clay/lateritic horizon, 25.9–1,338.6 Ω·m and 1.5–8.0 m thick; weathered layer, 10.7–142.8 Ω·m and 7.3–22.1 m thick; and fresh basement, 172.8–2,862 Ω·m with effectively infinite thickness. Longitudinal conductance values range between 0.05 and 0.75 mhos, indicating moderate to good overburden protective capacity across 70% of the study area. Transverse unit resistance values (1200–3000 Ω·m) reflect variable aquifer potentials, with relatively lower values suggesting zones of enhanced groundwater occurrence. The coefficient of anisotropy (λ), ranging from 1 to 4, delineates subsurface inhomogeneities and structural controls influencing groundwater accumulation. Geo-electric sections and resistivity maps identified the weathered/fractured basement as the primary aquifer unit, with the most prospective groundwater zones located at VES 1 and VES 2, corresponding to areas of high overburden thickness and moderate resistivity. These zones also exhibit good to moderate aquifer protection from surface contaminants. The study validates the reliability of electrical resistivity methods in groundwater appraisal and provides a scientific basis for sustainable groundwater development and management within the university. It is recommended that groundwater abstraction, waste disposal, and subsurface infrastructure be confined to zones with adequate protective capacity to ensure long-term water security.
Keywords: Evaluation, ABUAD, VES Sounding, Groundwater, Schlumberger, Ado-Ekiti.
PaperID: FJET_12_84_77
Page: 806-818
Title: Development of Free Space Optical Communication Testbed for Fog and Rain Attenuations Measurement
Author(s): Danasabe GAMBO, Isyaku YA’U, Tisan A. GREGORY
Abstract: This research developed a cost-effective laboratory testbed for Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) that serves as an educational and research platform for studying modern optical communication. The system was designed to transmit both text and audio signals and its performance was experimentally evaluated under controlled fog and rain conditions. Two types of receivers were tested: a mini solar panel and a photodiode. Findings revealed that the solar panel consistently achieved higher SNR values of 60 dB in fog and 90 dB in rain compared to the photodiode, which attained 38 dB and 58 dB respectively, at the same BER of 10-4. The superior performance of the solar panel is attributed to its larger field of view, which helps reduce beam divergence losses. Finally, the developed system demonstrated a bandwidth of 8.450 GHz, making it a useful educational and experimental platform for FSOC research.
Keywords: Fog, rain, attenuation, SNR and bandwidth.
PaperID: FJET_12_85_78
Page: 819-832
Author(s): Aminu BALA, Nasiru B. KADANDANI, Isiyaku ABUBAKAR
Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive performance evaluation of fuzzy logic controller (FLC) and fractional order proportional integral (FOPI) controller applied to an electric vehicle (EV) wireless charging system. A comparative analysis was conducted through detailed simulation models in MATLAB software R2021a to assess the controllers’ effectiveness in maintaining regulated and stable output voltage and power transfer efficiency. Although both FLC and FOPI controllers have been explored in various nonlinear systems, limited comparative performance studies exist on their application to EV wireless charging systems under identical simulation conditions. Moreover, most previous works focus on conventional PID control and do not compare intelligent controllers (like Fuzzy and FOPI). The FLC was implemented in MATLAB software using FLC tool box to address system nonlinearities through rule-based system, while Fractional-Order Modeling and Control (FOMCON) tool box in MATLAB Simulink was utilized to obtain optimal parameters for FOPI controller. The optimized parameters obtained when integral time square error (ITSE) was used as performance matrix are proportional gain, kp = 3.2555, integral gain, ki = 2.5062 and =0.93 which improve control precision. Simulation outcomes revealed that FLC controller demonstrated superior dynamic performance in terms of power transfer efficiency of 89% compared to FOPI and open loop of 72&and 21.8% respectively. It was established that FOPI controller enhanced system stability with minimal overshoot and settling time compared to FLC. These results indicate that advanced control methodologies, such as FLC and FOPI controllers can substantially improve the operational reliability and efficiency of EV wireless charging systems by promoting wider adoption of wireless charging technologies.
Keywords: Electric vehicles, wireless power, fuzzy controller, fractional order PI controller, DC-DC converter.
PaperID: FJET_12_86_79
Page: 833-842
Title: Entropy-Based Deep Learning Framework for Classifying Ransomware Families in Windows Environments
Author(s): Joseph A. OJENIYI, Zainab L. BELLO, Ismail IDRIS, Noel M. DOGONYARO, Suleiman AHMAD, Sikiru O. SUBAIRU
Abstract: Ransomware poses a critical cybersecurity challenge, exploiting strong encryption to deny access to data and evade traditional detection methods. Conventional techniques such as signature and heuristic-based detection often fail against modern variants due to polymorphism, obfuscation, and ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) models. This study proposes an entropy-based deep learning framework for classifying Windows ransomware families, leveraging entropy’s ability to quantify the randomness introduced by encryption. Encrypted files exhibit higher entropy values (>7.5) compared to benign files (4.5–6.0), making entropy a reliable feature for ransomware detection. In this work, ransomware samples from 18 families were executed in a controlled virtual box windows 10 environment to generate encrypted datasets across multiple file types. Shannon, Rényi, and sample entropy measures, alongside statistical descriptors, were extracted and transformed into normalized feature vectors for classification using a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) model. Experimental results revealed distinct entropy patterns across ransomware families, with the proposed framework achieving efficient training convergence and robust generalization. The model achieved accuracy 94.7%, 94.3% precision, 93.8% recall and FI-score of 94.0%. The findings confirm entropy’s effectiveness as a scalable and resilient feature, supporting accurate ransomware family classification and enhancing real-time detection and forensic analysis.
Keywords: Cybersecurity, cryptography, entropy, multi-layer perceptron, ransomware.
PaperID: FJET_12_87_80
Page: 843-862
Author(s): Hafsah A. ABDULRAHMAN, Muhammad M. HAMIDU
Abstract: The University of Maiduguri has struggled with power outages all the time because the national grid is unstable, diesel prices are high, and the amount of trash on campus is growing. This study examines a hybrid solar photovoltaic-wind-waste-to-energy (WTE) system as a sustainable alternative that enhances energy security and mitigates waste disposal issues. The main aim was to design and improve a reliable hybrid system that could meet the university's needs for electricity for academic, administrative, and residential purposes. HOMER Pro used hourly load profiles, solar radiation, wind speed, temperature data, and the amount of municipal solid waste available to create models. Then, it analyzed different system configurations based on Net Present Cost (NPC), Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), renewable fraction, and operational performance. The results show that the PV–wind–biogas–battery configuration provides the most cost-effective solution with a 100% renewable fraction. The optimal system has 16,812 kW of PV power, 2,434 kW of wind power, a 500-kW biogas generator, 17,972 kWh of lead-acid storage, and a 3,718-kW bidirectional converter. Solar PV contributes the highest annual energy output, supported by wind generation during low-irradiance months. The biogas unit, fuelled by an average of 26.5 tonnes of daily campus waste, provides stable power that keeps the system running during times when renewable energy is weak. With little unmet load and strong seasonal resilience, the total annual generation (44.65 GWh) greatly surpasses the campus load. According to the study's findings, UNIMAID can achieve a reliable power supply while converting its waste stream into an energy resource by combining PV, wind, and WTE. As future demand increases, it is advised that the university implement this configuration, enhance waste collection systems, and gradually expand the hybrid system.
Keywords: HOMER Pro Simulation, Hybrid Renewable Energy System, Solar–Wind–Biogas Integration, Techno-Economic Optimization and Waste-to-Energy (WTE).
PaperID: FJET_12_88_81
Page: 863-875
Author(s): Abdulrahman S. USMAN, Folorunsho ABERUAGBA, Moses A. OLUTOYE, Umar MUSA, Mohammed ALHASSAN
Abstract: Sustainable energy alternatives have increased the pace of the research on low-cost and low-environmental-impact catalysts used in the production of biodiesel. This paper examines the synthesis, characterisation, and performance of calcium oxide (CaO) catalysts produced from Okpella limestone, which is in Edo State, Nigeria. This was done by calcining the limestone at 900°C over a period of five hours to break down the calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) into catalytically active CaO. FTIR, XRD, XRF, SEM, BET, and TGA methods were used to characterise the raw and the calcined materials to assess their physicochemical characteristics and their appropriateness to the production of biodiesel. The XRD and the FTIR analyses verified the conversion of calcite into phase-pure CaO with high crystallinity. XRF and EDS data revealed that it contained 89.23 wt.% of CaO, which signified high purity and high basicity. SEM micrographs showed a porous irregular morphology, and BET analysis showed mesoporosity with a high surface area of 61.21 m²/g, a pore diameter of 3.14 nm and a pore volume of 0.11 cm³/g, which are significant characteristics for efficient transesterification. Complete decomposition of CaCO₃ at 650°C to 800°C was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis. Catalytic stability was shown to be six reaction cycles, with reusability tests showing biodiesel yields of over 90% before deactivation occurred gradually due to surface fouling and leaching. These results make Okpella limestone a viable, low-cost, and locally available raw material in the manufacture of high-grade CaO catalysts. The research advocates the production of cleaner biodiesels, and it helps Nigeria shift into renewable energy systems.
Keywords: Calcium oxide, Okpella limestone, biodiesel, heterogeneous catalysis, renewable energy, transesterification, Nigeria.
PaperID: FJET_12_89_82
Page: 876-884
Author(s): Adekunle A. YEKINNI, Adeniyi O. ADESINA, Kazeem A. BELLO
Abstract: Low-carbon steels such as AISI 1018/1020 are widely used in structural and industrial applications due to their low cost, good weldability, and ease of fabrication; however, their limited hardness and susceptibility to corrosion restrict long-term service performance. This study investigates the influence of controlled subcritical tempering on the microstructure, hardness, and corrosion behaviour of commercial mild steel in order to establish clear process–structure–property relationships. Rectangular specimens were normalized at 900 °C for 1 h and subsequently tempered at 500, 550, 600, and 650 °C for 4 h, followed by air cooling. Microstructural evolution was examined using optical microscopy after etching with 2% Nital. Mechanical response was evaluated using Rockwell B hardness testing in accordance with ASTM E18, while corrosion behaviour was assessed through gravimetric immersion testing in 1 N HCl (ASTM G31) and validated using potentiodynamic polarization in 3.5% NaCl solution. The results show that tempering at 500–550 °C promotes pearlite refinement and fine cementite precipitation, leading to a significant increase in hardness, with a maximum value of 270 BHN obtained at 550 °C. However, this condition also exhibited the highest corrosion rate due to increased ferrite–cementite interfacial activity. In contrast, tempering at 600 °C produced a more homogeneous microstructure with reduced galvanic heterogeneity, resulting in the lowest corrosion rate while maintaining moderate hardness. Further tempering at 650 °C caused cementite spheroidization and recovery-dominated softening. The study demonstrates that subcritical tempering provides a viable means of optimizing the mechanical and corrosion performance of mild steel, with 550 °C and 600 °C identified as optimal conditions for strength and corrosion resistance, respectively.
Keywords: Cementite precipitation, Corrosion behaviour, Ferrite–pearlite microstructure, Hardness response, Mild steel, Subcritical tempering.
PaperID: FJET_12_90_83
Page: 885-897
Title: Pretreatment and Characterization of Selected Precursors for Chitin/Chitosan Production
Author(s): Salisu MOHAMMED, Abdulfatai JIMOH, Abdullahi M. EVUTI, Abdulwahab GIWA, Abubakar A. IBRAHIM
Abstract: This study investigated the pretreatment and characterization of three locally available biological precursors-grasshopper (Schistocerca gregaria), periwinkle shell (Tympanotonus fuscatus), and snail shell (Achatina fulica)-as potential raw materials for chitin/chitosan production. Comprehensive physicochemical analyses, including proximate composition, ultimate analysis, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Textual properties, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were performed to assess the compositional, structural, morphological, and thermal properties of the precursors. Proximate analysis revealed moisture content ranging from 4.44 to 5.60 wt%, ash content from 9.15 to 95.90 wt%, lipid content from 0.24 to 8.58 wt%, crude protein from 2.50 to 25.00 wt%, and crude fiber from 0.57 to 20.62 wt%. XRF analysis indicated high CaO content in snail shell (92.08%) and periwinkle shell (90.89%), while grasshopper showed significantly lower CaO content (8.97%). XRD patterns confirmed aragonite crystalline form of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in both molluscan shells and calcite-like structure in the grasshopper. FTIR spectra revealed characteristic amide peaks in grasshopper samples and prominent carbonate stretching bands in shells. BET analysis revealed surface areas ranging from 141.05 to 331.53 m²/g, characterized by mesoporous structures. SEM-EDS morphology confirmed the mineral-organic composite nature of all samples. TGA revealed two-stage thermal decomposition patterns with initial moisture loss (81-134°C) and organic matter degradation (368-387°C). The results demonstrated that grasshopper exhibits superior potential as a chitin precursor due to its higher organic content, lower mineral composition, and distinct chitin-related functional groups. However, all three precursors showed viability for chitin/chitosan production, requiring optimized demineralization, deproteinization, and deacetylation processes with varying acid and alkali concentrations tailored to their specific compositional characteristics. This research establishes a foundation for utilizing sustainable, locally-sourced biological waste materials as alternatives to conventional crustacean-based chitin production, promoting circular bioeconomy principles and addressing environmental challenges in Nigeria.
Keywords: Chitin precursors, Grasshopper, Periwinkle shell, Snail shell, Characterization, Sustainable biomaterials.
PaperID: FJET_12_91_84
Page: 898-904
Title: Hybrid CNN Feature Fusion with Optimization for Precision Potato Leaf Disease Classification
Author(s): Umar A. IBRAHIM, Abdulra’uf G. SHARIFAI
Abstract: Potato production is highly vulnerable to a range of diseases that threaten global food security and agricultural productivity, particularly in uncontrolled farming environments. This study developed a hybrid deep learning framework for potato leaf disease classification, integrating multi-model deep feature fusion from five pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) backbones (VGG19, ResNet50, DenseNet121, InceptionV3, and MobileNetV2) with a two-stage hybrid resampling strategy. (Borderline-SMOTE and SMOTETomek) to address severe class imbalance. Feature selection was performed using a Modified Walrus Optimization Algorithm (mWAOA) enhanced with genetic operators, followed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to retain 95% variance while reducing computational complexity. The optimized feature set was classified using a fully connected neural network. Experimental results demonstrated a recall of 99.68%, an accuracy of 98.68%, and consistently high precision, and F1-score values, surpassing individual CNN baselines and prior published models. The proposed framework significantly improved minority class detection and robustness under varying environmental conditions. These findings highlight its potential for scalable, real-time disease monitoring and precision agriculture applications.
Keywords: CNN, feature fusion, potato leaf disease classification, mWOA.
PaperID: FJET_12_92_85
Page: 905-915
Title: Design and Construction of Dual Input Mobile Solar Generator for Reliable Off-Grid Power
Author(s): Zaharaddeen MUSA, Aliyu BELLO, Haris A. DANLADI
Abstract: Irregular electricity supply remains a persistent challenge in many developing communities, including Dutsin-Ma in Katsina State, Nigeria. Frequent outages, poor voltage quality, and heavy reliance on expensive fuel-powered generators hinder household comfort, business operations, and overall socio-economic development. Although renewable energy offers a viable alternative, conventional solar generators exhibit performance limitations during periods of low solar irradiance, resulting in unreliable backup power. This study presents the design and performance evaluation of a Dual Input Mobile Solar Generator with hybrid charging capability, supporting both DC solar charging and AC grid charging. The dual-input configuration enhances system flexibility, minimizes charging downtime, and significantly improves energy accessibility compared to solar-exclusive systems. The generator is fully portable, enabling easy deployment across households, business premises, construction sites, outdoor events, and emergency response locations. Field relevance in Dutsin-Ma demonstrates its practicality, where solar charging supports daytime energy demands while intermittent grid availability enables supplementary AC charging to maintain battery continuity. The proposed hybrid system reduces dependence on petrol generators, improves power reliability, and provides clean, cost-effective energy for households, schools, and small enterprises. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of hybrid solar technologies to strengthen energy resilience in weak-grid regions and contribute to sustainable development.
Keywords: Solar Generator, Dual Input Hybrid Power System, AC/DC Microgrid, Renewable Energy, Off-Grid Electrification.
PaperID: FJET_12_93_86
Page: 916-924
Title: Entropy-Guided Neural Architecture for Family-Level Classification of Windows Ransomware
Author(s): Zainab B. LAPAI, Joseph A. OJENIYI, Ismail IDRIS, Abdulkadir O. ABDULBAKI, Jennifer BALA
Abstract: Ransomware attacks continue to escalate globally, exploiting strong encryption to block access to essential data and disrupt operations. Despite substantial research efforts, accurately distinguishing between ransomware families, especially in lightweight, resource-constrained environments remains a significant challenge. This study addresses that gap by developing a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) classifier that leverages entropy-derived features for automated identification of 18 Windows ransomware families. Using 229 encrypted file samples, Shannon, Rényi, and sample entropy metrics were extracted, enhanced with statistical descriptors such as mean, variance, skewness, and kurtosis. These features formed the input to an MLP architecture with two ReLU-activated hidden layers, dropout regularization, and softmax output. The model was trained using Adam optimization, categorical cross-entropy loss, early stopping, and 5-fold cross-validation. The proposed approach achieved 94.7% accuracy, 94.3% precision, 93.8% recall, and ROC-AUC values above 0.90, demonstrating its effectiveness and suitability for scalable ransomware family classification.
Keywords: Ransomware, classification, entropy features, multi-layer perceptron, deep learning, windows ransomware.
PaperID: FJET_12_94_87
Page: 925-931
Title: Design and Construction of Transistor Based Water Level Indicator Tank with Overflow Alarm
Author(s): Olawale J. OLALUYI, Johnson O. ADEOGO, Aduragbemi F. OJO, Olarewaju T. OGINNI
Abstract: The use of a sensor controlling water overflow in a tank offers several significant benefits, primarily focusing on water conservation, cost savings, convenience, and safety. This paper discusses the design and implementation of a low-cost, transistor-based water tank overflow alarm (TBWTOA) and a multi-level indicator system (MLIS) that prevent losses by providing real-time monitoring and timely alerts. The system provides a reliable, automated solution to problems associated with manually monitoring water levels. The system employs four conductive probes positioned at low, medium, full, and overflow levels inside the tank. Probes were connected to the base of a BC547 NPN transistor through current-limiting resistors. When water bridges a probe to the common supply, it delivers sufficient base current to saturate the transistor, allowing collector current to flow and illuminate corresponding LEDs: red for low, yellow for medium, blue for full, and green for overflow. At the overflow threshold, the same circuit simultaneously activates a 5V buzzer, producing a loud, continuous audible warning. The circuit operates on a simple 9V DC supply and is assembled in a water-resistant enclosure. Experimental results demonstrated high accuracy and reliability, with LEDs lighting sequentially as the tank filled and the buzzer triggering instantly upon overflow, remaining active until the water level dropped. Response time remained consistently under 1.4 seconds across all levels and multiple tests. The system offers an affordable, very low-maintenance solution for water conservation. The sensor alarm system transforms a manual, error-prone task into a smart, efficient, and reliable process for managing water storage.
Keywords: Water level indicator, overflow alarm, transistor switching, LED display, buzzer alert.
PaperID: FJET_12_95_88
Page: 932-939
Title: Application of Machine Learning for Enhancing Fake Logo Detection
Author(s): Olawale J. OLALUYI, Johnson O. ADEOGO, Adeniyi O. AJIBOYE, Mayowa O. ORESELU, Olarewaju Thomas OGINNI
Abstract: Machine learning is significant for fake logo detection because it automates accurate identification of counterfeits, learning models which are faster and make fewer mistakes than manual checking, protecting brands, ensuring quality and combating fraud. Counterfeit logos have become a major challenge for industries, e-commerce platforms, and consumers threatening brand integrity, customer trust, and economic growth. This paper design and implement a machine learning based system capable of accurately detecting fake logos, providing an automated solution for brand authentication and digital security. The dataset comprised genuine and counterfeit logo images sourced from open access such as FlickrLogos-32 and augmented using data preprocessing techniques such as rotation, scaling, and noise insertion. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) were employed as the primary classification model, with feature extraction and image segmentation techniques applied to enhance detection accuracy. The system was simulated using Python libraries (TensorFlow and Keras), and performance evaluation was carried out based on precision, recall, and F1-score metrics. The simulation results demonstrate the robustness of CNNs in handling variations in color, shape, and resolution, thereby validating their suitability for real-world applications. Findings reveal that the model achieved a classification accuracy of 94.7%, with strong precision and recall rates in distinguishing between authentic and counterfeit logos. The system offers a scalable solution for e-commerce platforms and provides practical implications for policymakers and industries in reducing counterfeit trade.
Keywords: Counterfeit logo detection, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Brand authentication, E-commerce platforms.
PaperID: FJET_12_96_89
Page: 940-947
Title: Recovery of Lithium Carbonate from Nigerian Lepidolite Ore via Roasting-Leaching-Precipitation
Author(s): Mohammed U. GARBA, Musa A. ABDULLAHI, Isah RABI1, Saadatu A. GORO, Habibu UTHMAN, Abubakar S. MOHAMMED, Umaru AHMADU, Usman S. ONODUKU
Abstract: This study investigated the feasibility of extracting lithium from lepidolite ore sourced from Eggon, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, using a sulfuric acid roasting-water leaching method. The raw ore, a complex aluminosilicate with a low lithium content of 1.12%, underwent a multi-stage process involving calcination, acid roasting, water leaching, and precipitation. Characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) confirmed successful mineralogical and chemical transformations at each stage. Calcination at 900 °C and subsequent roasting with sulfuric acid at 300 °C effectively activated the ore, converting lithium into a soluble sulfate. Subsequent leaching and purification steps led to the precipitation of lithium carbonate. The final product was a crystalline, lithium-rich powder, although some trace metals persisted. The results confirm the technical viability of this process for producing lithium carbonate, highlighting its potential for industrial application in battery manufacturing.
Keywords: Lepidolite, roasting, leaching, impurities, characterization, lithium carbonate.
PaperID: FJET_12_97_90
Page: 948-955
Title: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18rAvgjw1cjqqrT6i7pA5dzRxrKb62yBA/view?usp=drive_linkPotential of Onion Skin, Luffa cylindrica, and Corn Cob as Cellulose Sources: A study of their Proximate, Ultimate, and Morphological Properties
Author(s): Hyelni G. MSHELIA, Abdulfatai JIMOH, Mohammed A. EVUTI, Abubakar A. IBRAHIM, Abdulwahab GIWA, Adeola G. OLUGBENG
Abstract: Nigeria grows a lot of onions and Corn, which are popular foods widely eaten within the population. Luffa cylindrica also grows widely in most areas of the country as a wild plant or weed due to the warm climate, which favors its growth. The onion skin, Luffa cylindrica, and corn cobs are agro-wastes that pose disposal challenges but offer potential as renewable sources of cellulose for industrial applications. These biomasses were processed into powdered form and subjected to characterization for evaluation of their suitability for cellulose extraction. The biomass was dried, ground, and sieved to uniform particle sizes. Proximate, ultimate, and chemical composition analyses were conducted, alongside Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). Differential Thermal/Gravimetric Analysis (DTA/TGA) was also carried out on these samples. The proximate analysis revealed high carbohydrate contents (86.065%, 83.868%, and 76.997%) for onion skin, Luffa, and corn cobs, respectively, reflecting a higher proportion of cellulose, a polysaccharide found in higher proportions in plant biomass. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of high carbon at 47.06%, 56.9%, and 55.05%, as reflected in the ultimate analysis at 48.38%, 59.33%, and 57.92%, respectively. Meanwhile, SEM images revealed rough, well-defined surface morphologies favorable for chemical interaction. TGA results showed significant thermal degradation from 200–400 °C, correlating with cellulose decomposition. Chemical composition analysis showed cellulose contents of 59.05±0.1%, 58.82±0.1%, and 55.86±0.2% for onion, luffa, and corncob, respectively. These findings give confirmation that these biomasses possess high cellulose content and suitable structural characteristics that make them good choices for cellulose extraction. The cellulose can be used in environmentally friendly technologies, such as industrial wastewater treatment.
Keywords: Cellulose, characterization, extraction, biomass, wastewater.
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