USEP: Journal of Research Information in Civil Engineering

CURRENT

21, No 1, 2024

*1James Obafemi ADEGBOLA, 2 Opeyemi David ALLI, 3 Timothy Opeyemi AKINGBADE, 4 Musa Oluwajuwon ABDULMOJEED, 5 Ayofe Fatai BUHARI. and 6 Ibrahim Owolabi AMBALI, Oluwatoyin Peter Abstract: The project begins with extracting and processing coconut coir and Kenaf fibers to obtain suitable reinforcement materials. These natural fibers are chosen for their desirable attributes, including low cost, lightweight nature, and environmental sustainability. The fibers are treated to enhance their compatibility with the polyester resin matrix, ensuring proper adhesion and minimizing moisture absorption The composites were developed using the Hand lay-up method involving the application of coconut coir and Kenaf fibers layer by layer onto a mold until the desired thickness of 5mm is attained using polyester resin as the matrix. A fixed load is applied to the top of the laminates and allowed to cure for 48 hours at room temperature. The resulting composite is assessed for mechanical and morphological examination. Preliminary results indicate the laminate Kenaf/coconut coir/Kenaf potential with the ultimate tensile stress of 22.667MPa, an impact strength of 74.7 J/m, and a water absorption rate of 5.98% as a lightweight yet eco-friendly material for automotive structural components, offering fuel efficiency benefits. Further research is needed to explore wider applications and commercialisation Keywords: Kenaf; Materials, Hybridization, Synthesis, Reinforcement

V ol. 20, No. 2, 2023

Water Yield and Water Balance in Gurara River Catchment Using Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) Model S. M. Bawa1,*, A.G. Adeogun2, A.W. Salami3: sheriffbawa1@gmail.com. Phone: 08060959298) Abstract" The estimation of water yield and water balance in a river catchment is critical to the sustainable management of water resources at watershed level. Therefore, Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) interfaced with Geographical Information System (GIS) was applied as a tool to assess the water yield and water balance of Gurara River basin. The objectives of the study were to: delineate the watershed area, determine the physiography and morphometric parameters of the catchment area, determine the water yield, determine water balance and suggest appropriate water resources management of the basin. The model inputs includes the Digital Elevation Model (DEM), Land use map, Soil map and the weather data collected. The outcome shows that evapo-transpiration has the highest share of the water balance from 1984-2013 while lateral flow has the lowest share. A total water yield of 29,246.091mm was estimated as the potential water yield of the basin for the simulation periods of 1984-2013 and an average value of 974.87mm/yr (0.975m/yr). Also from the validation result, there was a good correlation between the observed and the simulated flow indicated by coefficient of determination R2 of 0.642 also a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.801 indicating that the simulated data are reliable.Keywords: Water yield, Water Balance, Catchment, GIS, SWAT
Service Life Assessment of Self Compacting Concrete with Different Sizes of Aggregate and Palm Kernel Shell Olawale, Nathaniel Olabode
Abstract. The ability of concrete totototo be molded into any required structural form and shape due to its fluid behavior at early stage has made it the highest used construction material in the whole world. The compacting effect of the concrete is important in achieving the stipulated standards in workability, durability and strength. Self compacting concrete (SCC) gives some additional advantages over the mechanical vibration, such as to assure compaction in the reinforced concrete (RC) element of a structure: especially in confined zones where vibrating compaction is difficult and construction of structures that involves cluster of reinforcement at the joint of a frame. The main objective of this work was to investigate the reliability of palm kernel shell (PKS) as self-compacting concrete and efficiency when it partially replaces granite at 25% as a coarse aggregate with 14mm and 19mm. From the research work19mm granite gave a more reliability index of 0.675 when self-compacted while14mm aggregate gave more advantage for the physical properties for smoothness of the sample. The water absorption capacity was found to be higher in the 19mm aggregate sample at 0.834% in 120min (2hrs). Also, the strength characteristics in both sample gives 16N/mm2 and 15.87N/mm2 for 14mm and 19mm aggregate respectively at 28days. However standard water cement ratio for a self-compacted concrete is not stipulated except by a workability check at each mix, hence workability is very important factor to achieve maximum strength in SCC.Keywords: Service life (Reliability), Concrete, Palm Kernel Shell (PKS), Aggregate, Mix Designs and self-compacting concrete (SCC) Optimization of Calcined Beans Pod Ash-Cement Blended Concrete mix using Taguchi MethodO. P. Joseph, A. A. Adedeji ,O. A. Mokuolu, J. A. AlomajaAnd E. O. Ajadijoseph.oluwatoyin@adelekeuniversity.edu.ng,
Abstract: This study investigated the optimization of calcined beans pod ash (BPA) - cement concrete mix using the Taguchi method. Concrete is a widely used building material with various performance requirements. These requirements such as compressive and split tensile strengths, are mostly influenced by concrete constituent materials and mixtures proportion obtained from concrete mix design. Taguchi method of optimization was employed and optimum mixture condition determined for concrete strengths. Water – binder ratio (WB), percentage of BPA – cement replacement, fine to total aggregate ratio (FT) and super-plasticizer dosage (SP) are independent variables adopted for Taguchi method processes. The effects of these variables on concrete slump flow (SF), compressive strength (Fcu), and split tensile strength (Fst) were evaluated. Analysis of variance results revealed BPA to be the most contributing independent variable for concrete strengths and slump flow. The model established the use of regression analysis to predict strength and durability of BPA – cement self-compacting concrete at 28 days, and show that forecasted values go hand in hand with the experimental results. An optimal mixture parameter combination for BPA – cement concrete slump and strengths were obtained at 0.40, 5%, 0.4, 6 ml/kg of cement and 0.35, 5%, 0.4, 6 ml/kg of cement for WB, BPA, FT, SP respectively. Keywords: Beans-pod, Super-plasticizer, Concrete, Taguchi, Slump, Strength
Composite Concrete in Admixture of Sugarcane Bagasse and Rice Husk as Reliable Structural MaterialA. Afolabi and Adeola Adedeji
Abstract: This research work is based on the utilization of supplementary cementation materials i.e Sugarcane bagasse ash (SBA) and Rice husk ash (RHA) as mineral admixtures to develop high strength concrete (HSC. Among its relevance, is its benefit to students, engineers, researchers and construction industries in general. The objectives were to; collect initial data, design concrete mix proportion for different strength classes, determine the physical and mechanical properties of high strength concrete and obtain the reliability index based on the outcomes of the mechanical properties obtained. Two concrete mixes were designed. The conventional mix design by Gautam et al, 2019 was adopted to design a C-40 grade control mix without SBA and RHA at a water-cement ratio of 0.4. The other design was the use of design of experiment software (DE) to determine the proportion of high strength concrete (HSC) mixes. Commercially available Conplast SP430 superplasticiser was used to enhance workability of concrete. Concrete cubes and cylinders samples were prepared, cured and tested for compressive and tensile strengths at 7, 14 and 28 days. The compressive test results at 28 days showed that the optimum compressive strength was obtained at HSC-7 with a strength value of 41.10N/mm2 which was 1.73% higher than that obtained for the control concrete. The splitting tensile test result obtained at 28 days showed the optimum tensile strength was obtained at HSC-7 with a strength value of 3.00 N/mm2 which was 6% higher than that obtained for the control concretes. The average tensile strength of the concrete increased as the curing age increased. The result of the reliability indexes showed that time has negative impacts on the compressive and tensile strengths at prob. values of 0.000068 and 0.000071 respectively. In other words, the reliability indexes are projected to decrease by 0.005497 and 0.005522 on average where there is a unit increase in time. The coefficient of determination (R-squared) indicated that 98.7% & 98.6% of changes in reliability index is explained by time for compressive and tensile strength. The reliability indexes of the average compressive strength and average tensile strength was 0.7 at 50 years. the results implied that SBA and RHA are reliable materials that can function satisfactorily as high strength concrete for construction works.Keywords Composite Concrete, Admixture, Sugarcane Bagasse, Rice Husk, Reliable Structures
Vol. 20, No. 1, 2023
Environmental Management In Surfaces MinesSALAHUDEEN ADEYEMI LUKMAN1, SALAUDEEN OLANIYI HAMMED2 ASHOK PRAJAPAT3 AND KAPIL NASHAR4
Abstract: This study carefully evaluate the effective environmental Management of surface mines, focusing on effect on two major components of environment with special evaluation work on soil and water. S.C.C Nig Ltd Granite Quarry at Jere, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna state was used as case study. Soil and water from the surroundings of the mine were sampled and analyzed. Environmental quality parameters to determine the nature and extent of influence of exploitation and processing activities were carried out on the obtained samples. Data obtained from soil and water were compared with controls (samples collected from undisturbed areas) and with Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO) and Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) standards. Results showed that soil organic matters ranged between (0.24-2.89) percent for all soil samples. Primary macronutrients (N (0.01-0.15) %, P is (1.12-2.05) mg/ kg, and K is (0.01-1.03) mol/kg) in soil. There was a significant deficiency of organic matter in samples from Mined out area and reclaimed land sites indicating absence of vegetative growth on them. Water samples from within the mines premises and post-effluent discharge points along the receiving water bodies (stream and river) were slightly alkaline with pH ranging from pH (7.0-7.5). Hardness, conductivity, TDS, and Fe2+ contents of effluent from raw mill section were comparatively high having values of 180mg/l, 5.4x102 (Micromhos), 250mg/l and 6.2ppm respectively
Simulation of Pre-Heated Air on Performance of Dual-Purpose Furnace Fueled with Palm Kernel ShellJ. A. Adebisii, B. I. Adeniyi, S. Abdulkareem, A. T. Ajiboye3, T. Yahaya and I. I.Ahmed: Corresponding Author +234-803-042-2330,adebisi.ja@unilorin.edu.ng Abstract: Melting and heat treatment furnaces are crucial for industrial and research purposes. However, the lack or poor electricity supply in most developing countries remained a limiting factor in addition to the high cost of the furnace. Hence there is a need for an apt alternative to electrically powered furnaces. This research was conceptualized to design and model a dual-purpose furnace suitable for melting and heat treatment purposes and fueled with palm kernel shell on account of its high calorific value. The primary aim of the research was to conduct a simulation of the effect of preheated air on the performance of the designed furnace. SolidWorks software 2016 edition was used for the modeling and simulation. The air preheating was achieved by flue gas heat exchange across the spiral copper tube to the inlet air and thereafter charged into the furnace tangentially. Key findings from the study showed that tangential entry of preheated air produced a spiral trajectory and facilitated uniform combustion of the PKS and temperature distribution. The use of preheated air in the combustion of palm kernel shells within the dual-purpose furnace consistently enhanced the operating temperature of the furnace in both transient and steady states. The use of preheated air ensured that the furnace operating temperature was attained faster on the assumption of efficient fuel combustion. The furnace model design and simulation study are relevant to laboratories and industries where cognitive information is required for optimal melting and heat treatment.  Keywords: Furnace, heat treatment, palm kernel shell, simulation, preheated air.
Environmental Effects of Road Construction WasteS. S. Kolo, H. S. Abdulrahman, D. N. Kolo, M. Shehu, and H. N.Adamu and F. E. Eze*Corresponding Author: s.kolo@futminna.edu.ng.
Abstract: This research work investigates the various waste streams generated during road construction and their effect on environment. The method employed in this research work is categorized into waste type generated on construction site using reconnaissance surveys, data collection and data analysis methods. Four construction project sites in Minna, Nigeria, were used with the aim that these sites will provide a platform to acquire valuable data. It was discovered that mortar or concrete waste and wood waste has the highest percentage of 22% to 39% and asphalt has about 4 % waste and this was largest percentage of waste generated and this was mainly due to the human error, the use of inadequately trained and unskilled labour. The study however made case for adequate attention and concentration towards improving effective waste management by implementing proper waste management and disposal systems and encouraging the use of recycled materials in road construction. This will greatly reduce the cost of construction, increase efficiency, reduce work time and replenish the earths rapidly depleting natural resources used in construction like wood and bitumen.Keywords: Waste, Construction waste, Asphalt, Generated waste, unskilled. Service Life of Some Pozzolanic Maerials on the Compressive Strength of Self Compacting Concrete: A ReviewM. B. Owoniyi and M. A. Tomori and A. A. Adedeji
Abstract: The utilization of industrial and agricultural waste produced by industrial processes has been the focus of waste reduction research for economic, environmental, and technical reasons. This study is concerned with the production of economical yet durable concrete by using natural solid waste known as pozzolans materials in self - compacting concrete (SSC) primarily in replacement of cement to overcome the overall cost of concrete as much as possible. A review of the strength behaviors of self-compacting concrete with rice husk ash, silica fume and fly ash were done. It is discovered that the workability of SCC increases with the addition of pozzolan. It can be concluded that the addition of Rice Husk ash decreases the strength of SCC while Fly ash increases the strength up to 30% replacement. Increased in compressive strength of SCC was noticed up to 8% replacement of Silica Fumes. The combine effects of Silica fume and Fly ash at 6% and 25% replacement gives the highest strength, while the combine effect of Rice Husk ash and Fly ash at 5% and 25% respectively increased the strength of SCC. The reliability increases to 89years when Silica fumes and Fly ash were added. Whereas it decreases when Rice Husk ash was added to SCC. This implies that Pozzolan SCC is a reliable concrete that can function satisfactorily for 80 years. Keyword: self-compacting concrete, pozzolan, compressive strength, Rice Husk ash, Fly ash, and Silica Fumes.
Empirical Evaluation of the Impact of Silicon Mineral Admixture on the Mechanical Properties of ConcreteKevin Lorenzo Okeke, Festus Oluwasogo Adeyemi A. A. Adedeji
Abstract: The current and future focus for construction industry and human society, in general, is on sustainable construction. In the past, much of the technical know-how has been basically of an empirical nature. There have been enormous advances in concrete technology particularly in the development of special concrete, high strength concrete and high-performance concrete. Concrete is an engineered material, with a variety of specialty products designed for specific applications. One of the most important ingredients in high performance, long-lasting and durable concrete produced today are concrete admixtures. This study investigates the impact of silicon mineral admixture on the mechanical properties of concrete. A concrete specimen of grade M25 was produced as a control sample. Special concrete samples were produced using silicon mineral as both an admixture and as a partial replacement of cement in the concrete mix at 5, 10, 15 and 20% levels. The samples were subjected to laboratory experimental tests to analyze and evaluate the compressive and tensile strengths of the concrete specimen. Compressive strength recorded when silicon mineral was used as a partial replacement of cement were 29.09, 31.31, 34.25 and 28.18 N/mm2 at 5, 10, 15 and 20% replacement levels respectively. The split tensile strength recorded from the test results were 4.89, 5.10, 5.21 and 5.41 N/mm2 at 5, 10, 15 and 20% addition levels respectively as compared to the control sample split tensile result of 3.15 N/mm2. From the above results it can be concluded that the use of silicon mineral admixture in concrete enhances the mechanical properties. Thus, the concrete produced with silicon mineral admixture will lead to sustainable construction.Keywords: Concrete, Silicon, Admixture, Concrete Admixture, Concrete Properties, Mineral Admixture, Sustainable Construction Effect of Abandoned Construction Project on Exposed Reinforced Concrete Structure in Central Area of Abuja, NigeriaJ. Sule, S. Duna A.M. Miiraj A. S. Osu
Abstract: This investigation focused on the consequences of abandonment on the strength of reinforced concrete structures due to long term exposure. It has become a tradition in the built environment to see abandoned projects continued without due consideration for the present status of the structural members. This neglect of the status of structural members in an abandoned building may lead to collapse if the structural members have failed in structural integrity. Four (4) abandoned project sites in the central area (Phase 1) of Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT), were investigated. Thus, limiting the investigation to building that were abandoned for two (2) years (2020–2022). Visual inspections were carried out, a rebound hammer test was done, and steel reinforcement bars were cut from the site for laboratory testing and analysis. The results show that the concrete strength of the various structural members was within the designed strength, but there was a significant decrease in the tensile strength of the tested exposed reinforcement bars.Keywords: Abandoned project, steel, concrete, tensile strength, compressive strength
Behaviour of Ceramic Waste Powder-Cement Blended Concrete in Sulphate Environment Joseph O.P., Oyewusi T.F., Akinleye M.T., Alomaja J.A., Oluokun G.O., Salami L.O, Adeleke J.A.
Abstract: This paper presents the characteristic strength behaviour of ceramic waste powder (CWP) concrete in sulphate environment. This is with a view to check the behavior of concrete in sulphate environment and to improve on it. The experimental design was set up as factorial in randomized complete block design replicated three times. The factors are level of cement replacement (0%, 10% and 20% (vol/vol)), curing medium (H2O, MgSO4 and Na2SO4) and curing days (14 and 28 days). Appropriate percentage of CWP was mixed with corresponding proportions of cement (0%, 10% and 20%) and later mixed with the river sand and coarse aggregates and water. The cubes were cured for 14 and 28 days in three media of portable water and solutions of MgSO4 and Na2SO4 at 1.5% concentration. The effects of all these factors were evaluated by determining the compressive strength of the specimens using Compression Testing Machine. The result showed that the value 2.25 obtained for specific gravity of CWP was less than that of Portland limestone cement (3.15). The control (0%) mix recorded the highest workability while the lowest workability was recorded for 20% CWP concentration mix. The CWP-cement blended concrete containing 10% CWP shows the highest value of compressive strength in all the curing media, while that of 20% CWP shows the lowest value when compared with the control sample (0%). Therefore, CWP-cement blended concrete, at 10% replacement, will perform better in foundation containing MgSO4 and Na2SO4. This study is a good development in concrete production and construction industries.Keywords::Compressive strength, sulphate environment, ceramic waste powder, Cement blended concrete.
Water Distribution System Modelling for Leak Reduction in Suleja, Nigeria Y. Tanimu.; tanimuyaba@gmail.com
Abstract: Every water distribution network leaks and water losses are a common phenomenon in all water distribution systems. The process of water loss reduction, (physical loss) is a measure of performance of a water supply system. This study is aimed at evaluating water distribution pressure in order to reduce leakages in Suleja Water distribution system. EPANET software was used to evaluate water distribution system, Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) were installed at the most effective set of water distribution systems to reduce pressure as well as leakage quantities of water. There are 167 nodes and 242 pipes. An average water distribution pressure in the existing water distribution system was 143m.and the loss was 79.00%. Then, after the pressure values were reduced by introduction of pressure reducing valves (PRVs), average pressure dropped to 65m, therefore, leakage in average loss was reduced 35.9%. The study concluded that the application of PRVs in the water distribution system can serve as a reliable solution for leakage reduction by reducing pressure in the water distribution networks, ss analyzed in Suleja town. The result is believed to provide decision support for efficient pipe-borne water supply in the town.Keywords: Water distribution systems, pressure, leakage, EPANET
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Vol. 19, No. (3,4) 2022

Performance Assessment of Pulverised Waste Plastic in Lateritic Brick M. Bello, A.O. Ibrahim, T. Abioye, K. A. Muhammad and M. Usman
AbstractAbstractAbstractAbstract: In this study, an attempt was made to investigate the effect of pulverized waste plastic (PWP) on mechanical properties of lateritic brick (LB) in accordance with the procedure suggested by Standard Code. For this, fifty (50) samples were prepared from each series of mix containing waste plastic in various proportions viz., 0%, 2.5%, 5.0% and 7.5%, with a water cement ratio of 0.55. The bricks were sundried. The average compressive Strength are 13.20N/mm2, 10.38N/mm2, 8.70N/mm2, 10.20N/mm2 and 13.10N/mm2 for 0%:100%, 2.5%:97.5%, 5%:95%, 7.5%:92.5% and 10%:90% respectively for PWP-Lateritic sundried brick which reduced significantly as compared to control. It is shown that PWP is a light weight material that has the potential to be used as partial Aggregate replacement material and can contribute to the sustainability of the Construction industry.Keywords: Pulverized waste plastic (PWP), lateritic brick, sundried, mechanical properties, Aggregate
FoundationsSalinization in Soil and its Effect on Structural FoundationsHadiHadi Abba, Umar Dahiru Abubakar, and Isa Zubairu
Abstraxt: Salinity is said to be the measure of electric conductivity greater than 4 dSml-1 [an equivalence of 40 mM Sodium chloride (NaCl)] at 25o of 15% exchanged Sodium (Na) in soil or water. Similarly salinity has effect on both concrete and steel structures when they are in contact through soil or water bodies. This research aimed at conducting structurally integrity on concrete that has direct contact with saline soils or water. With an objective to examine the structural stability of concrete overtime within Saline environment. This study adopts a laboratory approach to investigate the effect of salinity on concrete with emphasis on Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4) as the sole attacking agent. Design mix employed is 1:2:4 used in preparing 120 concrete, curing periods are 7, 14, 21, and 28 dys., in five (5) deferent containers, containing Magnesium Sulphate salt in solution of 0g, 5g, 10g 15g and 20g respectively. CS of 120 cubes were determined with Non Destructive Schmidt Rebound Hammer (SRH). The results obtained shows an increased CS of concrete cubes in line with increased curing age and decreased CS of concrete, with increase quantity of Magnesium Sulphate in solution Table 4 to 9 and Figure 4 to 8 respectively. The results shows that Magnesium Sulphate affects concrete in proportion and the longer the duration of attack, the greater its destructive effect on structures. The government and stakeholders of construction industries in Nigeria should ensure to undertake EIA prior to constructions, the need to constitutionalize by making geotechnical investigations mandatory on soils prior to the construction of any major structures of importance, and all industrial stakeholders should ensure only technically sound structural and geotechnical engineers are employed to handle the construction of high-rise structure and or complex structures under stringent supervision.Keyword: Salinity; Soil; Water; Concrete Foundation; Magnesium Sulphate; Compressive Strength Analysis
Vol. 19, No. 2, 2022
Keywords Critical Risk Factors Affecting Infrastructure Projects in Kwara State, Nigeria

Idris Soliu, Amuda-Yusuf Ganiyu , Olorunoje Lukman Olanrewaju and Adebiyi Ranti Taibat Critical
Abstract Infrastructure projects are becoming larger in nature, more complex in a dynamic project environment which are vulnerable to various technical, socio-political, business uncertainty and project related risk. As a result, most of these projects are being over running in terms of either cost, time or expected quality. These projects therefore, require complex risk analysis, risk allocation and risk mitigation, given the highly complex nature and enormous amounts of resources required. The aim of this study therefore, is to identify the critical risk factors affecting the infrastructure projects delivery. Forty-eight risk factors were identified through extant literature review. This was followed by administration of questionnaire to construction practitioners involved in infrastructure projects in Kwara State, Nigeria. Three-stage approach was adopted in the data analysis. The first was determination of risk scores, followed by determination of relative significance of each risk factor using relative importance index (RII) and the final stage involved ranking of the risk factors based on their RII values. Based on this analysis, the study uncovered ten (10) critical risk factors namely, financial difficulties, incomplete design, time allotted to design, inadequate program planning and contractors experience. Others include delay in progress payment, inadequacy of site inspections, design team experience, unstable inflationary and foreign exchange rate. Correlation analysis was also conducted between the top 10 critical risk factors and the result reveled that there is a significant relationship between the identified risk factors. The study suggests that risk analysis should be conducted at the early stage of the project to identify and evaluate project related risks and appropriate mitigating measure should be put in place immediately. Findings from this study will be helpful to project stakeholders to understand the highly risky factors in infrastructure project and where applicable, assign responsibility for those who are best suited to control them. Keywords: infrastructure project; critical risk; risk factors; risk management
Application of Accelerated Carbonation and water curing for development of superplasticed Self Compacting Concrete S.O. Odeyemi A .I. Amoo, R. Abdulwahab, A.A. Adedeji
Abstract: The growing shortage of raw materials coupled with the vital requirement to shield the ecosystem from pollution has heightened the need to develop novel construction materials from agricultural wastes. Therefore, the goal of this work was to determine the properties of GCHA blended Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) using Accelerated Carbonation Curing (ACC) and water curing methods. Portland limestone cement, Guinea Corn Husk Ash (GCHA), sand, water and granite dust were tested for fineness, coarseness, specific gravity before being used to produce the concrete samples. The concrete was also investigated for its flowability parameters. Also, Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (EDXRF, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) were carried out to determine the properties of the GCHA. The mix ratios for the self-compacting concrete were developed and optimized to obtain an optimal compressive strength. The optimum combinations of percentage of GCHA and cement in ACC that gave a compressive strength of 21.369 N/mm2 in 56 days are 25 % and 412.5 kg/m3 respectively. The flowability properties such as slump flow T50 was obtained at 5 seconds, slump flow was 690 mm, L-box was 0.88mm and V-funnel was 6 seconds for ACC. The optimum combinations of percentage of GCHA and cement in WC that gave a compressive strength of 19.6274 N/mm2 in 56 days are 25 % and 412.5 kg/m3 respectively. The flowability properties such as slump flow T50 was obtained at 6 seconds, slump flow was 700 mm, L-box was 0.81mm and V-funnel was 5 seconds for WC. Therefore, the optimal combinations for ACC and WC can be used in reinforced concrete production.Keywords: Accelerated carbonation curing, central composite design, durability, flow parameter, guinea corn husk ash, water curing
Dynamic Behaviour of a Rayleigh Beam on an Elastic Foundation under Linear Distribution of a Moving Load E. O. Titiloye and M. S. Dada
Abstract: The dynamic response of a Rayleigh beam under a linearly distributed moving load is being examined. The partial differential equation governing a forced vibration of a Rayleigh beam is solved by expressing the solution in a variable separable form. The simplification of the equation reduces it to a set of ordinary differential equations that are solved using the method of Duhamel integral. Numerical results for the illustrated example are presented in tabular and graphical forms. It is discovered that the distribution gradient of the moving load influences the response deflection amplitude of the beam. A high value of the distribution gradient of the moving load produces high deflection amplitude of the Rayleigh beam. It also shows that the load distribution length affect the response of the beam.KeywordsKeywords: Rayleigh beam, Rotary inertia, Linear distribution, Moving load, Duhamel integral, Deflection. Critical Risk Factors Affecting Infrastructure Projects in Kwara State, NigeriaIdris Soliu, Amuda-Yusuf Ganiyu, Olorunoje Lukman, Olanrewaju and Adebiyi Ranti Taibat Abstract: Infrastructure projects are becoming larger in nature, more complex in a dynamic project environment which are vulnerable to various technical, socio-political, business uncertainty and project related risk. As a result, most of these projects are being over running in terms of either cost, time or expected quality. These projects therefore, require complex risk analysis, risk allocation and risk mitigation, given the highly complex nature and enormous amounts of resources required. The aim of this study therefore, is to identify the critical risk factors affecting the infrastructure projects delivery. Forty-eight risk factors were identified through extant literature review. This was followed by administration of questionnaire to construction practitioners involved in infrastructure projects in Kwara State, Nigeria. Three-stage approach was adopted in the data analysis. The first was determination of risk scores, followed by determination of relative significance of each risk factor using relative importance index (RII) and the final stage involved ranking of the risk factors based on their RII values. Based on this analysis, the study uncovered ten (10) critical risk factors namely, financial difficulties, incomplete design, time allotted to design, inadequate program planning and contractors experience. Others include delay in progress payment, inadequacy of site inspections, design team experience, unstable inflationary and foreign exchange rate. Correlation analysis was also conducted between the top 10 critical risk factors and the result reveled that there is a significant relationship between the identified risk factors. The study suggests that risk analysis should be conducted at the early stage of the project to identify and evaluate project related risks and appropriate mitigating measure should be put in place immediately. Findings from this study will be helpful to project stakeholders to understand the highly risky factors in infrastructure project and where applicable, assign responsibility for those who are best suited to control them.Keywords: infrastructure project; critical risk; risk factors; risk managementVol. 19, No. 1 , 2022
Effects of Mixing Ratio and Particle Size of Wood Dust on Particle Board Bonded by Soy Adhesive and Top Bond    O Abiodun and I. I. Ahmed.
Abstract: Wood dust (sawdust) generated at saw mills is widely regarded as waste and often burnt indiscriminately, thereby constituting air pollution and health hazard to the public. In this research, three sieve sizes of wood dust were used in the preparation of particle boards bonded with soy adhesive and Top Bond (commonly used binder in the wood industry) in different mixing ratios of adhesive to sawdust by weight (90:10, 80:20, 70:30 and 60:40). The particle boards were compacted by cold pressing and subsequently oven dried. The physical and mechanical properties of both adhesives bonded particle boards were tested according to the ASTM D-1037-99 standard, for determination of hydrophilicity and flexural strength. It was observed that mechanical properties and water absorption properties of boards were affected by particles sizes, mixing ratio and adhesive type. There was significant increase in thickness swelling and water absorption in soy adhesive bonded boards than Top Bond. Hence, Top Bond bonded boards gave better physical and mechanical performance than soy adhesive bonded particle boardsKeywords::Particle board; sawdust; soy adhesives: mixing ratio; top bond
The Analysis of Stiffness and Bending Strength of Green Isoberlinia Doka Timber Specie Grown in North Central NigeriaA. Iorkar, A. A. Adedeji and P. Abubakar
Abstract: At present, not many studies have been conducted on timber species grown in North Central Nigeria at green condition as such there is existence of research gap to cover more species in the region. This study presents the analysis of stiffness and bending strength of structural sized Isoberlinia doka timber specie grown in North Central Nigeria at green condition. The specimens for the experiment were obtained from log of Isoberlinia doka specie at green condition. Test specimens were prepared and tested in accordance with ASTM D198, (2018), ASTM D143, (2014) and BS 373 (1957). The mean values of moisture content and density obtained were 62.62% and 687kg/m3 respectively. Three-point bending test was conducted at Civil Engineering Laboratory of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria using Universal testing machine of 250KN capacity. The mean values of bending strength and MOE recorded at green condition were 34.07N/mm2 and 6035.19N/mm2 respectively. The green grade bending stress and MOE computed were 6N/mm2 and 345N/mm2 respectively. while the correspond dry grade stress were 19.31N/mm2 and 8369.32N/mm2 respectively. The green grade bending stress and MOE did not conform with that in Table 9 of NCP 2, (1973). The 18% moisture content grade bending and modular of elasticity conform with that of Wilson et al., (2021). The green strength obtained in this study could be used in designing and constructing timber structures that intends to use green Isoberlinia doka in construction. More research is required on green strengths of other local timber species to guide engineers in designing timber structures that intends to use green timber in construction.Keyword: Bending strength, deflection, density, green stress, modulus of elasticity, moisture content and Isoberlinia doka.
Perception of Construction Industry Practitioners on Success Factors for Green Building Technologies AdoptionAmuda-Yusuf Ganiyu; Bamimosu Halimat Adebukola; Idris Soliu; Adebiyi Ranti Taibat and Abdulraheem M.O
Abstract: Climate change resulting from global warming is fast becoming an important issue globally. Although there have been numerous empirical studies that have identified critical success factors for green building development. However, there is dearth of studies on success factors for the adoption of Green Building Technologies (GBT) as an integral part of green building development. This study is set to examine the success factors affecting the adoption of GBT as a component of green building development. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify success factors affecting GBT. This was followed by administration of questionnaires to industry practitioners engaged in the design and construction of buildings. The mean score (ms) and ranking of the success factors revealed five (5) most important factors as social awareness of GBT benefits (ms 4.0133), availability of social and natural environment condition to adopt GBT (ms 3.9867), availability of stable economic condition (ms 3.8933), demand and competitive advantage (ms 3.8533), and team members’ technical background (ms 3.8533). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to investigate the level of agreement in the perception of industry practitioners based on type of organisations, years of industry experience, academic qualification and professional background. ANOVA results shows that there is no general agreement in the perception of industry practitioners on the ranking of the success factors. In order to ensure adoption of green building technologies, industry stakeholders must ensure that there is incentive for clients to include cost of GBT in the project budget. Additionally, design professionals must be mandated to always incorporate same at the early stage of building projects. This study has contributed to the existing body of knowledge regarding success factors for the adoption of GBT which could guide in formulating policies for its implementation.  Keywords: Building projects; global warming; green building technology; practitioners; success factors;
Splitting Tensile Strength of Lightweight Expanded Polystyrene Beads Concrete – A Review S. D. Iyeke and L. O. Bobor
Abstract: Lightweight concrete made by partial or full replacement of the normal aggregate with expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads has numerous applications in the construction industry. The splitting tensile strength of EPS concrete influences the safety, serviceability and durability of the concrete elements. This work provides a review of previous research on splitting tensile strength of EPS concrete. Research has shown that the splitting tensile strength for EPS concrete increases with increasing compressive strength and decreases with the increase of EPS volume fraction. While the use of supplementary cementitious materials like silica fume has been shown to slightly improve the tensile strength of EPS concrete. The use of rice husk ash and fly ash as SCM was not shown to be effective in improving the splitting tensile strength of EPS concrete. Fibres increase splitting tensile strength of EPS concrete with hybrid fibres giving better results. Keywords: Splitting tensile strength; expanded polystyrene; silica fume; rice husk; fibre; compressive strength
Vol. 18, No. 4, 2021
Secant modulus of concrete containing Itakpe iron ore tailings as partial replacement of sandOritola, S.F.; Akilu, M. A and Abbas, B. A.
Abstract: Natural sand has been the conventional fine aggregate material in concrete production for many decades. However, there is a need for extensive research into alternative materials suitable to replace sand in concrete. In this study, Itakpe Iron Ore Tailings (IIOT) was used as partial replacement of sand in concrete production. The IIOT was obtained from different locations at the tailings dump sites of National Iron Ore Mining Company (NIOMCO) in Itakpe, Kogi State, Nigeria. Sieve analysis, specific gravity, bulk density, moisture content, aggregate impact value and aggregate crushing value tests were carried out on the fine and coarse aggregate. Based on the British Research Establishment (BRE) method, a normal weight concrete mix was designed with a target strength of 25 N/mm2. IIOT was used to replace sand at intervals of 5% ranging from 0% to 20%, resulting in one control sample and four others containing IIOT. Concrete cubes measuring 150 x 150 x 150mm were cast and their density and compressive strengths evaluated at 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The result of this study shows that all the concrete samples containing IIOT recorded higher density and compressive strength values than the control concrete sample. The concrete sample which contain 20 % tailings recorded the highest value of elastic modulus (19.6 GPa) this value is higher than that of the control sample by 17.4 %. The IIOT, rather than being discarded can be used as eco-friendly material in the production of concrete.Keywords: Normal weight concrete, Iron ore tailings, Fine aggregate, Compressive strength, Modulus of elasticity.
Evaluation of Waste Plastic Bottle and Waste Sachet Water Performance on Engineering Properties of Warm Mix Asphalt: A ReviewL. O. Salami and A. A. Bello
Abstract: Waste Plastic Bottle (WPB) and Waste Sachet Water (WSW) constitute a significant portion of municipal waste. From the review of literature, it was discovered that WPB and WSW is a non-biodegradable material that can remain on earth for years without degradation. Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) production temperature, causes environmental discomfort due to the release of harmful gaseous emissions. Thus, this necessitated the production of Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) which has a lower production temperature. This report presents a review of the use of WPB in modifying WMA for environmental friendliness in pavement works. Modified and unmodified WMA samples were subjected to various laboratory tests by researchers in other to assess the effectiveness of WPB in WMA. The tests are Penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, flash point, fire point, loss on heating, specific gravity, stability, and flow. From the review, there was a significant improvement in the engineering properties of WPB modified WMA compared to the unmodified sample. Moreover, WSW improves the engineering properties of bitumen. Hence, further studies should make use of WSW and WPB in a combined form for use as a modifier in improving the engineering properties of WMA.Keywords: WPB; WSW; WMA; Engineering Properties; Modified; Unmodified
Variability of Soil –Water Characteristic Curve with Plasticity Characteristics of Selected Reconstituted Tropical Red Earth SoilsJ. O. Okovido and E. O. Obroku
Abstract: Soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) is invaluable to the determination of the property of unsaturated soils. Some tropical residual soils also come under the group of unsaturated soils hence the determination of its WCC would prove vital in determining its engineering properties. Unsaturated soil’s properties such as shear strength, bearing capacity, permeability function and compressibility can be related to the SWCC. In this study, an A-7-5 tropical residual soil was reconstituted to simulate tropical red soil with varying plasticity properties ranging from low plasticity to high plasticity properties. The reconstituted soil’s matric suction was obtained from the filter paper technique. Gravimetric water content was utilized in the computation of the SWCC. Four models were used to estimate the SWCCs of the soils investigated and MSSR, ARE, and R2 values were utilized in the determination of the predictive capability of the models with varying plasticity characteristics of tropical residual red earth. The models utilized were: (Fredlund & Xing, Equations for the soil-water characteristic curve, 1994), FX; (van Genuchten, 1980), VG, (Brooks & Corey, 1964), BC and (Kosugi, 1996), K. The results show that as the plasticity of tropical residual soil increases, the predicting capability of the investigated models varies hence there is the need for researchers to identify the suitability of the models to the plasticity characteristics of various tropical red earth soils.Keywords: Typical residual soil, SWCC, matric suction, filter paper, plasticity
Design of a Water Distribution Network Using QGIS in Combination with EPANET: A Case Study of Agiliti Community in Kosofe LGA, Lagos State, Nigeria Rawlings and S. Seghosime
Abstract: Human population cannot survive without water. It is imperative to ensure the availability of sufficient water by planning, designing and constructing a water distribution network which will help to deliver wholesome water from sources to the consumers. In this study, Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS 3.14) was used in combination with Environmental Protection Agency Network (EPANET 2.2) to analyse and design a water distribution network for Agiliti community in Kosofe Local Government Area (LAG) of Lagos State, Nigeria. Two hydraulic plugins (Qwater-Ghydraulics and Open layer plugin) from QGIS were mostly used. The open layer plugin (OpenStreetMap) was used to map the study area in other to view the road network. Qwater plugin (which is based on Ghydraulics) allows to analyse the water distribution network with EPANET. A Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the study area was generated in QGIS. This was used to understand the topography of the study area which helps to indicate the possible route of gravity flow. A total water demand (projected for the year 2050) of 776.04LPS was obtained. The results indicated that the velocities of flow in the pipes (which were below 1.5m/s) are not excessive and the head losses in the pipes (which were below the calculated head loss of 15.6m) are within acceptable limits, thus indicating a very adequate network. Although, few pipes have relatively low flow velocities which might be due to pipes diameter limit, however drain valves can be installed on these pipes in order to optimise the network and make the system cost effective and sustainable. The water distribution network consist of 68 pipes, 53 junctions, 6 tanks and 4 source reservoirs from which water enters the receiving tanks. The study has shown that a combination of QGIS and EPANET can be used to plan and design a cost effective and efficient water distribution network that will convey water from the source to the consumers in Agiliti community. Thus, this will be of great value and interest for those involved with design, construction and maintenance of public water distribution system.Keywords: Agiliti community, EPANET, open layer plugin, QGIS, Qwater plugin, water distribution network, topography.
Influence of Vegetation Weight to the Stability of Embankment Slope N. Bello and M.H. Idris
Abstract: The aim of this research is to provide an assessment of effect of vegetation weight in a typical soil slope embankment. In particular, it demonstrated how a presence of a mature Oak tree enhances the stability of soil slope cutting within a London clay formation using real life data. A total of four analyses were performed. The Factor of Safety of the bare un-vegetated slope cutting was first determined by identifying its critical plane using Fellenius Line A-B method, then a mature Oak tree 16m height with 89cm diameter was introduced. The tree is situated on three different locations on the slope. At down-slope, the presence of the tree showed a huge positive impact by doubling the slope factor of safety and increasing it by about 110%, while going up around the middle of the slope the factor of safety was increased by 82% due the tree presence. When the tree is situated near the slope crest the impact reduced to 60%, showing vividly the importance of tree positioning towards the slope safety factor. In general, the findings of this work shows that, vegetation especially mature trees, enhance the stability of embankment slope mostly when they are situated near the slope toe up to some position near the slope middle.Keywords: Vegetation, oak tree, factor of safety, slope, london clay
Evaluation of Static and Dynamic Effect of Vibration on Waffle SlabM. A. Abanda1*, S. Sadiku2, A. Mohammed3 andJ. I Aguwa4
Abstract: Advancement in science and technology has ensured that structures are built or constructed in ways to reduce self-weight. This lowers the natural frequency of vibration of structures. Waffle slab, which is gradually replacing solid slab in Nigeria, is an example of a structure designed to reduce self-weight. This research was carried out to assess the dynamic effect due to aerobic activities on waffle slab using the finite element approach for grid analysis with the aid of MATLAB. Initially, the static analysis and design was done using an ultimate variable load of 8.0 kN/m2 as recommended by BS 6399. Next, the dynamic analysis was done, which resulted in a low natural frequency (1.65 Hz), which is within the range of forced frequency of vibration due to normal jumping, and within the range liable to cause serious discomfort to humans. Assessment of the dynamic load on the structure gave 45.8 kN/m2, which is not suitable for application on the waffle slab. It was concluded that waffle slab is not suitable for aerobic activities.Keywords: Waffle slab, vibration, static, dynamic, loads

Vol. 18, No. 3, 2021
Prediction of Compressive Strength of Metakaolin – Based Geopolymer Mortar Using Taguchi Optimization MethodOkovido, J. O. and Yahya, I. A. john.okovido@uniben.edu; ismakola2012@gmail.com
Abstract: In this study, Taguchi method was used for the optimization of compressive strength of metakaolin – based geopolymer mortar (MGM) under three basic synthesis parameters including alkali/metakaolin (A/M) ratio, the sodium silicate/sodium hydroxide (SS/SH) ratio and concentration of sodium hydroxide solution (SH Molarity). The influence of each synthesis parameters on the compressive strength of geopolymer mortar was the aim of this paper. The parameters were considered under three trial levels and they were distributed using Taguchi’s orthogonal array distribution. The experimental results were analysed by the signal to noise ratio (SNR) and the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The analysis data indicates that the contribution of each synthesis parameter to the compressive strength of MGM differs between 7day and 28day ambient curing period. It was found that SS/SH ratio recorded the highest contribution of 61.2% to the early strength of MGM at 7day. At 28day, SH molarity recorded the highest contribution of 59.0% to the strength of MGM. The prediction results indicate that between 7day and 28day of ambient curing condition of mortar, the difference between the predicted value and the confirmation value increases. It was concluded that the strength prediction of ambient cured MGM based on mix optimization by Taguchi method produced conservative value at later age.Keywords:: Metakaolin – based geopolymer, compressive strength, Taguchi method, signal to noise ratio, analysis of variance
Design and Fabrication of a Manually Operated Rice Transplanter for Local FarmersOluwole James Adeyemi, Ayodeji David Jakande and Kamardeen Olajide Abdulrahman
Abstract: Most local farmers who cultivate rice cannot afford the high cost of purchase of imported rice transplanter. The farmers mainly depend on manual hand transplanting method to transplant rice seedlings. This method is less efficient, and highly stressful for the local farmers to depend on to meet the growing demand of food in Nigeria. This work was based on the design and fabrication of a manually operated rice transplanter for local farmers using locally available materials. The design was modeled using Solidworks software (2019) and four bar linkage mechanism was used to achieve this project. The design was easy to fabricate, operate and maintain. It requires less labour stress and reduce or eliminate backache experienced by farmers during rice transplanting process compared to the traditional method. The cost of the manually operated four row transplanter was about N100,000, which is more affordable when compared with the imported transplanters that cost about N1,000,000 for a four-row motorized transplanter and N160,000 for a two row manually operated transplanterKeywords: Farm mechanization, frame, Nigeria, rice seedlings, rice transplanter, tensile stress.
Cementitious Materials and Fibers for Expanded Polystyrene Beads Production – A ReviewS. D. Iyeke and L.O. Boborsolomon.iyeke@uniben.edu; lulu.akhigbe@uniben.edu
Abstract: In the construction industry, there is a growing demand for expanded polystyrene (EPS) light weight concrete for numerous applications due to its characteristic properties of sound insulation, lightweight and excellent heat preservation. Lightweight concrete with a range of densities can be produced by incorporating different contents of EPS beads in concrete mixture. EPS beads bond poorly with cement paste due to its hydrophobic nature. Higher cement content in EPS concrete will lead to an expensive concrete and an increase in the heat of hydration of the concrete. One of the methods to solve this problem associated with EPS concrete is the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) as partial cementing material in the concrete. Research has focused on the use of supplementary cementitious material (SCM) and fibers in improving the properties of EPS concrete. This review provides material properties of SCM and fibers used for EPS concrete.Keywords: Expanded polystyrene beads, Lightweight concrete, Fly ash, Rice husk, Silica fume, Fibers
3D a nd 4D Modeling and Printing as a Method of Design and Construction CoordinationJ. D, Ademiluyi and A. A. Adedejijohnademiluyi@gmail.com ; gaiadeji2gmail.com
Abstract: This study presents how 3D and 4D Model is beginning to change building: how they look, the way they function, the ways in which they are built. 3D and 4D Model is not a type or a thing of software but a human activity that involves wide process changes in construction. 3D and 4D Model approaches hold significant potential for the construction industry. Nonetheless, they are far from becoming standard practice in Nigeria's construction industry. This paper reports this inadequacy by providing guiding princi ples on how to overcome the technical, procedural, and organizational issues confronted by project teams as they undertake this new way of working. Specifically, the project defines different approaches for assembling a project team to leverage these technologies, the modeling requirements for implementing 3D and 4D projects, the 3D and 4D modeling processes, the benefits and inadequacies of the process and technologies, the effect of these technologies on the project's outcome, and the lessons learned. This paper is intended for industry professionals to take interest in pursuing this type of innovative project delivery. This paper will also be of interest to researchers as it illustrates the limitations of emerging 3D and 4D technologies in the Nigeria Con struction Industry.Keywords: 3D Model. 3D Modelinging, 4D Model, 4D Modelinging, , BIMBIM technology, technology, project collaboration, project collaboration, construction construction managementmanagement, building construction, building construction
Sensitivity of Self-Compacting Concrete to Pertubation in Superplasticizer ContentM. O. OyelekeCorresponding author e-mail: omoyeleke73@gmail.com
Abstract: Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) was invented to solve problems associated with durability, reinforcement clustering, thin structural members, among others. However, a major obstacle to its wider acceptability is sensitivity to slight variations in its mix constituent material. Accurate modeling of SCC establishing relationship between its constituent and the properties will provide an insight on its sensitivity at the mixing stage. In this study, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was adopted in exploring the sensitivity of SCC's properties due to changes in its constituent materials. To achieve this, 143 data from literatures and experimental results were adopted in building the model. Neurosolution software was employed in conducting the ANN modeling. Preliminary tests were carried out on fifteen (15) different network topologies with performance grading based on Pearson’s Coefficient of Correlation. The test rated Probabilistic Neural Network (PNN) architecture more accurate in predicting the properties of SCC. Sensitivity analysis was then conducted. Sensitivity analysis gave an insightful decision boundary in the dosing of superplasticizer to achieve specific characteristics of SCC.Keywords: Self-Compacting Concrete; Sensitivity Analysis; Perturbation; Artificial Neural Network; Superplasticizer
Vol. 18, No. 2, 2021
3D and 4D Modeling and Printing as a Method of Design and Construction CoordinationJ. D. Ademiluyi and A. A. Adedeji
Abstract: This study presents how 3D and 4D Model is beginning to change building: how they look, the way they function, the ways in which they are built. 3D and 4D Model is not a type or a thing of software but a human activity that involves wide process changes in construction. 3D and 4D Model approaches hold significant potential for the construction industry. Nonetheless, they are far from becoming standard practice in Nigeria's construction industry. This paper reports this inadequacy by providing guiding principles on how to overcome the technical, procedural, and organizational issues confronted by project teams as they undertake this new way of working. Specifically, the project defines different approaches for assembling a project team to leverage these technologies, the modeling requirements for implementing 3D and 4D projects, the 3D and 4D modeling processes, the benefits and inadequacies of the process and technologies, the effect of these technologies on the project's outcome, and the lessons learned. This paper is intended for industry professionals to take interest in pursuing this type of innovative project delivery. This paper will also be of interest to researchers as it illustrates the limitations of emerging 3D and 4D technologies in the Nigeria Construction Industry. Keywords: 3D Modeling, 4D Modeling, BIM technology, project collaboration, construction management, building construction
Design and Fabrication of a Manually Operated Rice Transplanter for Local Farmers Oluwole James Adeyemi, Ayodeji David Jakande and Kamardeen Olajide Abdulrahman
Abstract: Most local farmers who cultivate rice cannot afford the high cost of purchase of imported rice transplanter. The farmers mainly depend on manual hand transplanting method to transplant rice seedlings. This method is less efficient, and highly stressful for the local farmers to depend on to meet the growing demand of food in Nigeria. This work was based on the design and fabrication of a manually operated rice transplanter for local farmers using locally available materials. The design was modeled using Solidworks software (2019) and four bar linkage mechanism was used to achieve this project. The design was easy to fabricate, operate and maintain. It requires less labour stress and reduce or eliminate backache experienced by farmers during rice transplanting process compared to the traditional method. The cost of the manually operated four row transplanter was about N100,000, which is more affordable when compared with the imported transplanters that cost about N1,000,000 for a four-row motorized transplanter and N160,000 for a two row manually operated transplanterKeywords: farm mechanization, frame, Nigeria, rice seedlings, rice transplanter, tensile stress.
Estimation of Compression Index for Lateritic SoilS. D. Iyeke and E. Ufuah
Abstract: This work seeks to estimate the compression index for lateritic soils using the Box-Cox transformation regression analysis. The modeling effort has been to create a platform, for obtaining the compression index of lateritic soil using basic soil properties without the rigor associated with the consolidation tests experiment. The Box-Cox transformation regression analysis allows the data trend to evolve the most appropriate functional form. Secondary data for the analysis was obtained from existing literature. The results of the analysis reveal that the ariations of compression index with liquid limit can be represented by a cubic power transformation of the independent variable. This model will be useful during preliminary design stage, prompt execution of site investigation and validation of laboratory tests results.Keywords: Box-Cox transformation, compression index, lateritic soil, liquid limit
Development of a Urea Molasses Multi–Nutrient Block Machine for Sustainable Livestock ProductionTajudeen A. Ishola, Rasheed. A. Busari,, Oluwole T. Aiyewumi and Elijah A. Alhassan
Abstract: Locally produced urea molasses multi-nutrient block (UMMB) are prone to contamination, inadequate mixing, inefficient compaction during moulding due to the manual method of production. A machine for the production of UMMB was designed, constructed and evaluated. It comprised of a mixing and a moulding unit. The performance evaluation of the machine was carried out. The parameters investigated were density, compressive strength, bioyield force, moulding efficiency and drying time. The results were subjected to analysis of variance and Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results revealed that moisture content was significant for all the parameters investigated. Hence, further investigation was conducted to ascertain how these parameters vary at moisture content levels of 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60% (db). It was observed that Density decreased with increase in moisture content. On the average, the machine had highest moulding efficiency of 89.89%, compressive strength of 4.38N/mm2, bioyield force of 47340N, density of 1058.2 kg/m3 and shortest drying time of 6 hours. Full exploitation of the nutritional, industrial and commercial prospects of UMMB as feed supplements in ruminant nutrition is appropriate. Keywords: Nutrients, Molasses, Moulding, Mixing and Density.
Effects of Operating Parameters on the Performance of a Mixer cum Pelletizer for Livestock FeedsTajudeen A. Ishola , Rasheed. A. Busari and Olanrewaju. S. Aboyeji
Abstract: The performance of a mixing/pelletizing machine is dependent on the right combination of process variables for the formation of biomass feed pellets for livestock. The performance of a mixer/pelletizer was evaluated in terms of bulk density, pelletizing efficiency, throughput capacity, shattering index, compressive strength and drying time of pellets. The process variables were moisture content, binder conditions and mixer speeds. The data obtained from the tests were statistically analyzed. The analysis of variance test showed that the moisture content, binder condition, the interaction between moisture content, mixer speed and binder condition were significant at 5 % confidence limit. Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test showed that levels of the moisture content, binder condition and mixer speed were significantly different at 5 % confidence level. The results revealed that as moisture content increased from moisture content of 20 to 30 % (db), the pelletizing efficiency and the throughput capacity increased and peaked at 26 % (db). The highest throughput capacity of 116.12 kg/h and pelletizing efficiency of 86.7 % were obtained at moisture content of 26 % (db), 0.5 kg of molasses as binder and 800 rpm mixer speed. The highest bulk density obtained was 1118 kg/m3 and the longest drying time of 2 hours 40 minutes at moisture content of 26% (db), binder condition of 0.5 kg and mixer speed of 800 rpm. Above moisture content of 26 % (db), the drying time remained constant at 2 hours 40 minutes without any change. The proximate analysis results revealed that the highest carbohydrate content was 53.16 ± 0.10 %, highest crude protein content was 20.45 ± 0.22 % while the highest crude fibre was 8.44 ± 0.05%. The quality of livestock feed pellets formed would be enhanced by the right choice of process variables.Keywords: Mixer, Pelletizer, Process variables, Performance indices, Moisture content
Vol. 18, No. 1, 2021
Natural Vibration Analysis of Tapered Rayleigh Beams with General Elastically Restrained EndsO. T. Olotu and J. A. Gbadeyan Abstract: In this study, differential transform method (DTM) was used to solve the problem of free vibration of a tapered Rayleigh beam having a general elastically restrained ends with free-free boundary condition. First, the differential transform of the non-dimensional form of the governing differential equation of a vibrating tapered Rayleigh beam was taken and a set of difference equation was derived. Applying some simple algebraic operations on these equations and using some computer codes developed and implemented in MAPLE 18, the ith natural frequencies were obtained and plotted. The analysis of the effects of rotational and translational spring constants on the dynamic response of a free-free tapered Rayleigh beam was investigated. It is found that elastic supports significantly affect higher non-dimensional natural frequencies rather than the fundamental non-dimensional natural frequency. Keywords: Natural vibration, Tapered Rayleigh beam, Natural frequency and Differential transform method.
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Vol. 17, No. 4, 2020
Strength Properties of Pre-Treated Waste Rubber Tyre Chips as Patial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in ConcreteAbdulrahman Garba, Abbagana Mohammed and Duna Samsonibngarbaabdul@gmail.comAbstract: Waste tyre accumulation and disposal serves as a potential threat to the environment, for instance, tyre landfills serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, pollution to land, water and air. Studies carried out using waste rubber tyres as partial replacement of either fine or coarse aggregate have shown significant reduction in strength properties, however, when rubber aggregates are pre-treated or modified, better strengths properties were achieved. The purpose of this study is to determine the strength properties of concrete using untreated rubber chips (CR) and pre-treated rubber chips (PCR) as partial replacement of coarse aggregate. In this study, mechanical pre-treatment was employed by simply boring a center hole of 10mm diameter on rubber chips aggregate of 20mmx20mmx15mm. During mixing, concrete passed through the hole and formed a small concrete column that connected the aggregate to the surrounding concrete, forming physical anchorage and thus improved the strength resistance of the composite. The experimental plan was design to carryout compressive, Flexural and split tensile strengths as well as density and water absorption tests using 0, 10, 20, and 30% CR as well as 0, 10, 20 and 30% PCR by volume of coarse aggregate. The samples were cured for 3, 7 and 28 days before testing. The results indicated that the compressive, flexural and split tensile strengths decreased with CR and PCR content compared to the control specimens. However, there is significant improvement in strengths when PCR were used compared with CR. The optimum result was achieved at 10% PCR and 90% coarse aggregate having compressive, flexural and tensile strengths of 20.45N/mm2, 5.92N/mm2 and 2.03N/mm2 at 28 days, while at 10% CR, the strengths values are 16.17N/mm2, 5.17N/mm2 and 1.73N/mm2. This indicated a gain in strengths of about 21%, 12.67% and 14.78% respectively. The density of concrete at 28 days decreased from 2480kg/m3 at 0% PCR to 2400kg/m3 at 10% PCR content. While the water absorption at 28 days increased from 2.89% at 0% PCR to 3.43% at 10% PCR content. It was concluded that pretreatment of rubber chips aggregate significantly affect the strength resistance of concrete compared with untreated rubber chips.Keywords: Strength, Rubber chips, Pre-treatment, Waste.

Vol. 17, No. 3, 2020
Evaluation of interactions between Benzene and Toluene Species in the Air Basin of a Nigerian Petroleum Products Depot Muhibbudin Eniola Ismail
Abstract: Benzene and Toluene species concentrations relationship and interaction were determined in the air basin of Pipelines and Products Marketing Company Mosimi Depot, Sagamu, Nigeria .This study evaluates the status level of these air pollutants emitted from Mosimi Petroleum depot industrial area using active sampling and gas chromatography fitted with flame ionization detector ; Model : HP 6890. Air samples were collected over granular activated charcoal with 10-18 mesh using a low volume air sampler. The Model: Negretti 1000 tm sampler was placed at human breathing height of 1.5m for a sampling period of eight hours at different sampling location. Desorption process was carried out on the used activated charcoal using solvent extraction method with carbondisulphide as the solvent. The extracted solutions were subjected to gas chromatography fitted with flame ionization analysis. The gas chromatography was powered with chem-station REV A09.01 [1206] software to determine the concentration of each of the benzene and toluene species present. The concentrations of benzene ranged between 0.0104 and 0.0711 mg/m3 while that of toluene ranged between 0.0019 and 0.0998 mg/m3 within Pipelines and Products Marketing Company in Mosimi depot and host environment. The Pearson’s correlation of benzene and toluene is 0.998 while concentrations ratios ranged between 1.32 and 1.77 which indicate both species are have a relationship and are of multiple similar sources.Keywords: Air pollutants; Benzene species; Toluene species; interaction; Emission; Petroleum Depo
Assessment of Rainfall Seasonality and Distribution Pattern in the South-South Region of NigeriaA. Rawlings, J. O. Ehiorobo and O. C. IzinyonEmail: seghosimeh@gmail.com
Abstract: Global warming caused by increase in “greenhouse” gases leads to climate change which can adversely affect weather in different ways. It can bring about changes in rainfall pattern (such as rainfall seasonality) and redistribution of rainfall, thus making precipitation one of the most climate variables of study among researchers. In this study, monthly rainfall data from 1981 to 2016 were collected from Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and Central Bank of Nigeria Meteorological data base. Arithmetic mean and percentage of mean were used to analyse rainfall distribution pattern and seasonal variation over the period. The results indicated that apart from Intertropical Discontinuity (ITD), Sea Surface Temperature may be influencing rainfall distribution pattern in the south-south region of Nigeria. Also a long wet season (with high amount of rainfall received) from March to November and a short dry season (with low amount of rainfall received) form December to February was observed. In addition, there was a short dry season toward the ending of the mid wet season (August Break). With this results, it is recommended that one can predict the date for the onset and cessation of rainfall in the region which could be helpful for sustainable water resources management and agricultural production.Keyword Meteorological data, Rainfall seasonality, Rainfall distribution pattern, Climate change, Hydrologic cycle, Runoff, South-South
Top Cited Articles on Structural Engineering Reliability by the Nigerian AuthorsM. Abubakar, J. IAguwa, M. Abdullah, S. Sadiku and S. F. Oritola
Abstract: This study analyses the characteristics of top-cited articles on structural reliability with at least one author affiliated to Nigeria. A search in the Google Scholar database for articles published between 2010 and 2020 was carried out. From the top-cited articles, variables related to the journal, article, and authors, such as journal ranking from SCImago Journals & Country Rank (SJR), H-index, author affiliations, international research collaboration, and source of funding were collected and descriptively analysed. A sample of 25 original reports was identified from the search. The average citations per year ranged between 0.10 and 6.1. The articles were published in 20 different journals (36% found in only four journals) with five of them based in Nigeria. It was observed, that international collaboration on reliability-based researches was present in 4% of the articles, and funding was reported in just 1 article. Articles having Nigerians as first authors were reported in 100% of the articles. Articles with authors affiliated to ABU, Zaria were more frequent in the sample. A list of top-cited articles is thus, presented to provide an overview of the top-cited articles. This study could aid in supporting further analyses regarding publication, citation behaviours, research funding and international collaboration of structural reliability based researches in Nigeria.Keywords: Bibliometric analysis, citation counts, Nigeria, structuraes, reliability
Mechanical Properties of Concrete using Bida Natural Aggregate as Coarse AggregatesA. Yusuf; M. Abdullahi; S. Sadiku and J. I. Aguwa
Abstract: Significant volume of concrete is occupied by aggregates. Most of these are obtained from rock fragment which depletes natural resources and thereby distorting the ecosystem. The use of alternative aggregate has the potential of reducing this menace. This paper investigates the slump and strength properties of concrete made by varying Bida Natural Aggregate to total aggregate ratio (BNA/TA). Nine different mixes were prepared for three Water to Cement (W/C) ratios and three BNA/TA ratios while Total Aggregate to Cement ratio (TA/C) was kept constant. Properties of the aggregates were determined and found to be satisfactory for concrete production. Three 150x150x150 mm concrete cubes, three 100x100x500 mm concrete prisms and three 100x200 mm concrete cylinders were produced for W/C of 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 and BNA/TA of 0.55, 0.6 and 0.65. The compressive strength, flexural strength and splitting tensile strength of the specimens were determined at 28 days curing duration. Test results indicates that the higher the BNA /TA content, the lower the slump of concrete. A combination of BNA/TA of 0.55, W/C of 0.4 and TA/C ratio of 3 gave maximum compressive, flexural and splitting tensile strength of 44.30 N/mm2, 7.60 N/mm2 and 3.42 N/mm2 respectively. It was concluded that BNA can be used in place of crushed granite in concrete production.Keywords:: Bida Natural Aggregate; Compressive Strength; Flexural Strength; Splitting Tensile Strength; Water-Cement Ratio____________________________________________________
Vol. 17, No. 2, 2020
Flexural Strength of Re-vibrated Concrete Using Iron Ore Tailings (IOT) as Partial Replacement for River SandA. Yusuf and A. I. Emmanuel (yusuf.abdul@futminna.edu.ng)
Abstract: River sand is one of the major concrete constituents. Sand mining from rivers results in several environmental problems which leads to destruction of river banks among others. The use of IOT as a substitute for river sand is capable of addressing this problem. The effect of partial replacement of river sand with IOT on the flexural strength of re-vibrated concrete was studied in this paper. Sieve analysis, bulk density specific gravity and water absorption tests were conducted on the IOT, river sand and crushed granite to ascertain their suitability for use in concrete. A mix ratio of 1:2.1:2.7 and water-cement ratio of 0.5 was used to prepare concrete mixes with 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, and 100% IOT as sand replacement. A total of 63 prisms of size 100 x 100 x 500 mm were cast and revibrated 30s for 3 minutes within 1 hour to provide samples to be tested for flexural strength at 7, 14 and 28 days curing age. Results revealed that the workability of concrete decreased with increase in percentage of IOT. Highest flexural strength was noted with concrete containing 100% IOT at all curing ages. Flexural strength model was proposed as a function of % IOT at 28 days curing age. It was recommended that IOT can be used as either partial or total replacement for river sand in concrete.Keywords: Concrete; flexural strength; revibrated; IOT; river sand
Urban Soil Pollution: A Paradigm of Metal Pollutants in the Subsurface of Automobile Mechanic Workshops, Ilorin Southwestern Nigeria A. O. Adewoye., R. A. Adegbola and S. Stephen
Abstract: The menace of potable water and soils in our society has become a worrisome issue regardless of the advancement of technology. However the study is aimed at assessing the environmental impact of heavy metals associated with automobiles in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria on the environment. A number of forty soil samples were collected randomly at automobile workshops in Ilorin metropolis from layer 0m to 1.2m at interval of 15cm below the ground surface .They were pre-treated and analyzed in the Geochemical Laboratory for Cr, Ni, Pb, Cd, Zn metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). A total of ten water samples were collected using a rubber and plastic water bailer and stored in a thoroughly washed polyethylene bottles, sealed , labeled and analyzed for chemical analysis such as Cr, Ni, Pb, Cd, Zn using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) and interpreted statistically by STATA and Geographic Information System. The pH values of soils ranged between 5.71 and 8.66. Zinc and Lead were of high concentrations in all the locations examined. Zn, Pb, Ni and Cd were in high concentrations of 2025.01mg/g, 1952.53mg/g, 772.58 mg/g, and 9.02mg/g respectively at Oke-elerin while Cr has high concentration of 772.58 mg/g at Offa Garage1. Many variations exist in concentrations within locations at different layers and by comparing the results to the established limits set for soils by CLEA (Contaminated Land Exposure Assessment) standard, the values measured in this study were higher than these limits in different locations. However, applying an adopted contamination degree and pollution load index values for determining the total heavy metal pollution status within the depths and between the locations, the degree of heavy metal pollution was in the order: Oke-elerin, Maraba, Odota, Adamu field, Offa Garage 1 and Offa Garage 2 and Tipper Garage. The order of abundance of metals in groundwater is as follows: Ni > Cr > Zn> Pb > Cd implying that nickel (Ni) constitutes a major threat in the environment . It also shows that these metals are continuously released from the same anthropogenic source, which predominates in the area of their concentration. This study reveals that Nickel , Chromium , Zinc, Lead are found in the mechanic villages and Garages where there is constant or regular discharge of gasoline, lubricants oil, car battery discharge and gas from vehicle exhaust thus contaminating the soil and thereby percolating into the groundwater system in that environment.Keywords: Groundwater, Soil, contamination, heavy metals, mechanic village,.................................................................
Vol. 17, No. 1, 2020
Optimum Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams Subjected to Bending, Shear and Torsion Based on Limit State-Design PhilosophyV.I. Okougbenin, S. Sadiku, M. Abdullahi and J.I. Aguwa
Abstract: Many researches have been reported on optimum design of reinforced concrete beams subjected to flexure, aimed at achieving more economic structures. However, recent surveys have shown limited research on optimum design of reinforced concrete beams subjected to combined bending, shear and torsion. The aim of this study is to achieve optimum parameters in the designs of reinforced concrete beams subjected to bending, shear and torsion, in terms of cross section dimensions and reinforcement details. For the optimisation process, the Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimisation (PSO) techniques, were implemented. The width and effective depth of the beams were considered as design variables, the fixed parameters assigned to the solution of the optimisation problem included, the effective span, material properties and unit costs. The objective function is the minimum cost of concrete material and steel reinforcement per unit length of the beam. Design constraints satisfying the strength and serviceability limit states, were adopted to cover all the reliable design results. In order to validate the developed computer models for the reinforced concrete beams, one numerical example was applied and the results was studied. The results of the optimisation models were compared with the results obtained using other standard method of design and a reduction in design cost of the beam subjected to combined loads of bending, shear and torsion, of about 18 percent was achieved using the GA and PSO techniques. It is concluded that both optimisation techniques provide robust optimum design approach for the challenging problems as it proved to be a rapid converging algorithm, always obtaining near optimal solutions within fraction of the total number of iterations available for a single runKeywords: Bending, Genetic algorithm, Limit sates, Optimisation, Particle Swarm Optimisation, Reinforced concrete beam.
Suitability of some Nigerian Standard Specifications for Evaluation of Residual Lateritic Gravel Mixed with Fines for Road BaseMusa Alhassan, Mohammed Mustapha Alhaji, Mohammed Abdullah, and John Abraham
bstract :Five fine lateritic soils collected from five different areas within the suburb of Minna, Niger State, Nigeria were sieved through BS sieve 0.425mm each. The fines passing were mixed with lateritic gravel at 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 % fines by mass of the lateritic gravel. Index properties, compaction characteristics and California Bearing Ratio of all the mixtures were evaluated. The results showed that the fine soils used, classified under A-2-6 to A-7-6 according to AASHTO soil classification system. The mixtures that gave the minimum 80 % CBR required by Nigeria General Specification for Roads and Bridge Works, for soil to be used for road base were isolated along with the index properties of the mixtures. From the five fine soils studied, it was observed that 36 % maximum percentage passing BS sieve 0.075mm, 39 % maximum liquid limit and 14 % maximum plasticity index were adequate to give the 80 % minimum CBR and can therefore be recommended for materials to be used for road base course as against the 35 % maximum percentage passing sieve 0.075mm, 35 % liquid limit and 12 % plasticity index, specified by Nigerian General Specification for Roads and Bridge Works.Keywords:: Californian bearing ratio; lateritic fines; Lateritic gravel; maximum dry density; optimum moisture content.
Effect of Waste Polymer Modified Bitumen with Milled Corn Cob as a Partial Replacement for Filler in Asphaltic ConcreteW.O. Ajagbe, L.O. Salami, M.T. Akinleye and M.O. Salami
Abstract: There is need to consider the use of cheaper and locally available materials so as to minimize the construction cost for sustainable development. Therefore, this research evaluated the physical and mechanical properties of waste plastic bottles modified bitumen with Milled Corn Cob (MCC) as a partial replacement for filler. Waste polymer was obtained from different waste generation points. A portable gas cooker was used to melt the waste polymer. Corn cob was sun-dried, and milled by an abrasion machine. Also, 60/70 penetration grade of bitumen was used for the study. The bitumen was replaced by waste polymer of 5%, 10%, and 15%. Bitumen modified samples were further prepared by mixing it with MCC of 10%, 30%, and 50%. Penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, flash point, fire point, loss on heating, specific gravity, stability, and flow were carried out on unmodified, modified bitumen and asphalt samples. All tests were conducted in accordance with the method of testing established by Indian Standard (IS) specification. Penetration, ductility, viscosity, flash point, fire point values decreases with increase in waste polymer content while softening point and loss on heating increases with increase in waste polymer content. Stability and flow value decreases with an increase in waste polymer and MCC content. The Optimum bitumen content, stability, and flow values for all the samples conform to the acceptable limits specified by Federal Ministry of Works (FMW) (1997) and IS specification. The results indicated an improvement in shear resistance, increment in resistance to deformation and optimum modifier content was found to be 10% for waste polymer and MCC.Keywords: Waste polymer, MCC, Bitumen, Plastic Content, Modified, Unmodified.
Vibration Analysis of an Axially Moving Non-Uniform Rayleigh Beam Using Adomian Decomposition MethodE. O. Titiloye, J. A. Gbadeyan and O. F. Akinlade
Abstract: In this study, the Adomian Decomposition Method (ADM) is employed to solve the boundary-value problem of an axially moving non-uniform Rayleigh beam thereby obtaining the natural frequencies for various vibrating configuration of the system. Results obtained are compared with those given in Yesilce (2010) and these were found to be in an excellent agreement.Keywords: Non-uniform, Rayleigh beam, natural frequency, critical velocity
Investigation of Surface Morphology of Sub-Zero Electrical Discharge Machining of TitaniumS. Abdulkareem
Abstract: The high temperature generated in the spark gap (through a discharge channel) during Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) process leads to melting and vapourization of the workpiece. The effects of this high temperature depends on how fast the resulting heat is absorbed and dissipated in the workpiece. This paper reports on the investigation of surface characteristics of a Titanium workpiece machined at sub-zero (-1950C) temperature with respect to EDM parameters of current (I), on-time (ton), off-time (toff) and voltage (v). Surface profile measurements using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were investigated to study the surface morphology of the machined workpiece. Experimental results show that surface machined at sub-zero of -1950C has good surface integrity with average values of 0.882 μm as against the surface machined at room temperature having average values of 0.949 μm.Keywords: EDM; Electrode; liquid nitrogen; sub-zero temperature; surface integrity
Environmental Impact Assessment of Cassava-mill Effluents from Aradaa Market using Integrated MethodsAfolabi O. Omodele and Adewoye A. Olufunmi
Abstract: The crash of cassava mill effluent in Arada market Ogbomoso, Southwestern were examined with the aim of appraising its environmental impact on surface and groundwater. Five water samples were collected for chemical analysis. Geotechnical analysis involving permeability test, grain size distribution and consistency limit were carried out on the soil samples. Geophysical investigation involving Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and Very Low Electromagnetic Frequency were also carried out to supplement the aforementioned methods and reveal the subsurface lithology and contaminant plume.The studied water samples revealed the influence of anthropogenic activities and alkaline type of aquifers toward the high level of nitrate (10-60mg/l);phosphate (0.0-2.5mg/l) and cyanide (0.0 - 0.5mg/l) contamination. This reflected the prospective health risk to inhabitants due to the consumption as drinking purpose. The bacteriological analysis revealed the presence of the disease causing bacteria makes the water unsafe for domestic use as the total coliform count ranges from 1.8x103 and 8.8x103and total viable count ranges from 1.0x105and 4.1x104 .LSI values in the study area are all negative and less than zero indicating undersaturation with respect to calcium carbonate and have tendency to remove protective coating while the calculated RSI samples are greater than 8.5 making them to be very aggressive and liable to corrosion. The studied soils fall in the A-7 subgroup systems indicating fair subsoils materials .Out of the three studied samples ,studied soil sample C reflected a good attenuating material coupled with the fact of its low swelling potential as result of plasticity index of 10.7%. Sample C has low permeability that can create a barrier for the movement of leachate .Profile 1, 2, 3 for VLF and ERT for the same profiles show a low resistivity zones (conductive zones) which is characterized contaminated zone and also constitutes a contaminated zone . It is concluded that the studied water samples are unfit for human consumption due to anthropogenic activities in the study area. There is a need for an engineered landfill for proper handling of cassava wastes.Keywords: Environmental Impact, Cassava–mill, Effluents, Aradaa market, integrated methods........................................................
Vol. 16, No. 4, 2019
Experimental Evaluation of Bulk Chorine Decay Using Water Samples Obtained From Surface and Groundwater SourcesT. C. Okeke A. Salisu, and F. Komolafe
Abstract: This study experimentally examined bulk chlorine decay in surface and groundwater sources. The surface water was obtained from an open stream and cloth filtered to remove possible colloids present. The groundwater was obtained from a deep borehole. At 30 minutes of contact time, the results showed surface water sample requires higher initial concentration to satisfy the chlorine demand. Also the rate of decay is higher in the sample obtained from surface water. With minimal treatment, the sample obtained from groundwater source is satisfactory for drinking purpose while that obtained from surface water source require further treatment and not suitable for household use.Keywords Free Residual Chlorine (RFC), Chlorine Decay, Initial Chlorine Concentration (ICC), Microorganism
Reliability Analysis of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) of a Non Load-Bearing Bottled Sandcrete MasonryM. A. Tomori and A. A. Adedeji
Abstract: Plastic bottle sandcrete masonry is a new innovation in building industry which can assist to obtain a social equity by avoiding the gap between the rich and the poor people housing in Nigeria. This study aims to determine the reliability of plastic (PET) bottle sandcrete masonry as a construction material. The Reliability of PET bottle sandcrete was achieved using the constant failure rate method to determine the life span of Pet Sandcrete before failure. The 28days compressive strength of PET sandcrete used was 1.1N/mm2 and was used to calculate the reliability. Conclusively, the reliability index of 0.6 was gotten for Pet bottle sandcrete which shows that it’s a reliable construction material that can serve for more than 100years. It is thereby recommended for its adoption as a construction material for load and non-load bearing wall.Keyword: Polyethylene terephthalate, compressive strength, framed structured, Masonry infill walls, reliability
Characterization and Grading of Anogeissus Schimperi Timber Specie Grown in North Western NigeriaP. Abubakar, J. F Aguwa and A. A. Adedeji
Abstract: This study is aimed at characterizing and grading Anogeissus Schimperi (Marke), a locally grown timber in the North Western Nigeria. The specimen was obtained from logs of Anogeissus Schimperi specie and seasoned naturally in open air for 7 months. Experimental test specimens were prepared in accordance with BS 373 (1957) methods of testing small clear specimen of timber for laboratory test on bending parallel to the grain, tension parallel to grain, compression parallel to the grain, compression perpendicular to the grain, shear parallel to grain, modulus of elasticity and density at naturally seasoned moisture content. Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the physical and mechanical properties. The strength properties obtained from the tests and modulus of elasticity were adjusted to 12% moisture content. Basic stresses were computed from values of failure stresses recorded. The timber specie was Classified and Graded in accordance with BS 5268 (2002). Anogeissus schimperi was assigned to class D60. The results indicated that Anogeissus schimperi is a hard wood and is recommended for Bridge Beam.Keywords: Grading, Anogeissus Schimperi Timber, bridge, beammosture contents, compression, shear
Quality Characteristics of Commercially Available Brake Pads for Light Weight Vehicles in Nigeria MarketS. Abdulkareem,,T. K. Ajiboye, O. S. Balogun and H. K. Ibrahim
Abstract: Many experimental studies on the different compositions of brake pads have been carried out with the goal of providing sufficient wear resistance, stable friction and acceptable environmental conditions. However, the variation of the coefficient of friction and performance properties depends on it materials. The presence of different types of brake pads in the Nigerian market today makes it imperative to make a clear distinctions with regards to quality and performance. This study investigate the quality characteristics of commercially obtained brake pad for light weight vehicles with respect to their physical and mechanical properties. The vehicles considered for this study were those with gross weight of between 1500 – 3500 Kg in Ilorin. The brake pads of three different vehicle brands were procured and labelled A, B and C respectively. The properties examined were Brinell hardness, tensile strength, compressive strength, impact strength and coefficient of friction by following standard test in each case. The results obtained showed that at 3000 Kgf, sample A, B and C has Brinell hardness values of 117.15, 106.68 and 103.22 respectively. Sample C has the highest yield force under tensile at 815.03 N followed by sample A at 520.87 N and sample B at 426.51 N. Under compression, sample B has the highest yield force of 32.46 KN while sample A has 17.68 KN and sample C recorded 14.59 KN. The three test samples showed impact strengths of between 69 – 69.17 J with sample B having the highest impact strengths of 69.17 J. The coefficient of friction obtained ranges between 0.32 – 0.34. The results indicate non-uniformity in brake pads composition in the study area and the local authority involved with standardization needs to enforce strict adherence to standards.Keywords: Brake pads; Light weight; Lining materials; Mechanical properties; Physical properties
Investigation of the Use of Palm Kernel Shell Concrete Kerb in Pavement CorridorsI. T. Yusuf and V. O. FrancisAbstract: Agricultural wastes have, of recent, been utilized as useful coarse aggregates in concrete to reduce/eliminate harmful effects on the environment and the hazard to the residents in the locations, where they are deposited as wastes. This study focused on the replacement of conventional aggregate with palm kernel shell (PKS) in the production of palm kernel shell concrete (PKSC) kerb. PKS was characterized as coarse aggregate in concrete production. Ten (10) Nos. 150x150x150 mm cubes of PKSC were produced, cured and crushed after 7 and 28 days (Five cubes on each day) to determine the compressive strength in accordance with BS 1881 (1986). Thirty (30) Nos. of PKSC kerbs of dimension 0.5x0.35x0.10 m were then produced based on the 28th compressive strength of the cubes produced. Results sieve analysis showed that palm kernel shell is well graded and a good replacement for conventional coarse aggregate in concrete. Also, the physical properties of palm kernel shell fall within the specified value for lightweight aggregate, confirming PKS as a lightweight aggregate. The density and compressive strength after 28-day curing were 1583.80 kg/m3 and 17.59 N/mm2, respectively. These values are within the specified values 1700-2050 kg/m3 and 15-25 N/mm2, correspondingly for lightweight concrete, further confirming PKS as a lightweight aggregate. Palm kernel shell concrete is, therefore suitable for the production kerbs for application in pavement works.Keywords: palm kernel shell, lightweight aggregate, Concrete, physical properties, compressive strength
Effect of Fire on Impact Resistance of Tyre Fibre ConcreteA. O. Ibrahim, , A. A. Adedeji and I. O. SalaudeenAbstract: In this study, an attempt has been made to investigate the effects of fire on impact resistance of tyre fibre concrete (TFC), subjected to drop weight test in accordance with the procedure suggested by ACI committee 544. In this work three samples were prepared from each series of mix containing tyre fibres of 10 x 10mm mm (width and length) in various proportions viz., 0%, 2.5%, 5.0% and 7.5%, with the average water cement ratio of 0.55. One set of the samples was heated at certain temperature and compare the impact resistance with non heated sample. The results indicated that heating tyre fibre to concrete decreased the impact resistance of the concrete.Keywords: Tyre fibre concrete, fire, impact resistance, ductile mode, failure pattern....................................................
Vol. 16, No. 3, 2019
Experimental Evaluation of Bulk Chorine Decay Using Water Samples Obtained From Surface and Groundwater SourcesT.C. Okeke, A. Salisu, and F. Komolafe
Abstract: This study experimentally examined bulk chlorine decay in surface and groundwater sources. The surface water was obtained from an open stream and cloth filtered to remove possible colloids present. The groundwater was obtained from a deep borehole. At 30 minutes of contact time, the results showed surface water sample requires higher initial concentration to satisfy the chlorine demand. Also the rate of decay is higher in the sample obtained from surface water. With minimal treatment, the sample obtained from groundwater source is satisfactory for drinking purpose while that obtained from surface water source require further treatment and not suitable for household use.Keywords Free Residual Chlorine (RFC), Chlorine Decay, Initial Chlorine Concentration (ICC), Microorganism
Assessment of Physico-Mechanical Properties of Clay Deposits in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State Nigeria for Industrial ApplicationsY. L. Shuaib-Babata, I. O. Ambali, H. K. Ibrahim, K. S.Ajao, K. S.; Z. U. Elakhame, N. I. Aremu, and O. M. OdeniyiAbstract: Adequate information about the properties of most available clay materials in Nigeria is necessary to enhance their industrial applications. Availability of this information will adversely reduce importation of refractory materials and its products into the country, since the mineral resources are abundantly available in the country. This study evaluated the chemical and physico-mechanical properties of some selected clay deposits across the three districts of Asa Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara State to ascertain their suitability for refractory and other industrial applications. The results revealed that the clay samples were mainly alumina-silica based with silica and alumina concentrations of 47.30 – 58.50% and 32.75 – 34.30% respectively. The physico-mechanical properties exhibited by the clay samples included: clay content (33.80-72.20%), linear shrinkage (6.10-9.80%), moisture content (21.00-33.00%), bulk density (1.99 - 2.87 g/cm3), apparent porosity (21.00-37.00%), permeability (73-94), compressive strength (213-840 N/mm2), thermal shock resistance (+29 cycles), specific gravity (2.18-2.52) and refractoriness (>1300oC). The properties were within the required standard values which make the clays suitable for insulating materials, refractories for low-medium thermal applications and manufacturing of ceramics. Though, Afon, Bakase and Ballah clay samples may require the addition of organic matter to enhance the clays’ suitability for applications that may require a higher value of porosity and permeability and low density. Effective utilization of Asa L.G.A. clays will help to domesticate the production of refractory products and enhance the establishment of Small and Medium Scale Foundry Enterprises in Nigeria in addressing the problem of unemployment.  Keywords:Alumino-silicate, Minerals deposits, Performance, Foundry and Casting
Assessment of the Utilisation of Post Occupancy Evaluation among Construction Professionals in Abuja-NigeriaJimoh Richard, Oyewobi Luqman, Suleiman Bolaji & Samuel AdinoyiAbstract: Completed projects and occupied buildings are dominated by an attitude of ‘never look back’ syndrome. Once a building has been completed and handed over, the contractor moves on to the next project and rarely returns to check the performance of the building constructed largely due to non-inclusion of funding for Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) in the design budgets and it is unclear who has the responsibility to conduct post occupancy evaluation operation. Therefore, the paper assessed the utilisation of POE among construction professionals in Abuja-Nigeria through the self-administration of structured questionnaires. Findings revealed that one of the drivers of POE practice is the application of design skill with greater effectiveness and the factors that affect the implementation of POE practice among construction professionals are structural factors prevalent in the construction industry and cost. There is an understanding among constructional professionals about the various POE methods but the cost of the person responsible for the commissioning and paying for the evaluation is an obstacle. Based on these, it is recommended that since one of the drivers of POE practice is to apply design skill with greater effectiveness, the orientation of all stakeholders should be changed from the immediate gains accruable from completed buildings to long term benefits that will be accruable when POE is incorporated in contractual agreements ab initio.     Keywords: Post Occupancy Evaluation, Construction professional, drivers, utilisation, Abuja-Nigeria
Post-project Reviews in Construction: A means to achieving improved projects performanceI. L. Oyewobi, R. A. Jimoh, B. Suleiman and M. JohnAbstract: Stakeholders accepted that post-project reviews are useful, but many organisations find it difficult to conduct it in a consistent way. However, it takes time to review lessons learnt on construction projects to prevent future negative occurrences. Sharing of the knowledge gained in the process will promote better sustainable construction practices within the industry. The purpose of this study is to assess the post-project review (PPR) systems used by selected stakeholders on construction projects in Abuja, Nigeria. The research adopted the quantitative approach with a well-structured questionnaire administered to 168 participants. The study established that the knowledge management technique is the post-project review system currently practised towards capturing project knowledge and experiences. Ego and pride of team members towards participating in the process was found to be a major obstacle inhibiting the process despite the acceptance from participants that it facilitates collective learning, prevents knowledge loss and reduces reoccurring errors. Due to the limited participation of stakeholders in post-project review process, project performance has not been able to meet the performance criteria of time, budget and scope set. The study recommended the consideration of other available post-project review approaches or techniques to capturing project knowledge and experiences by stakeholders, and the expansion of the role of the prime consultant on projects to accommodate initiating and leading the facilitating of post-project reviews in line with global best practices. The findings from this research will be invaluable to all construction stakeholders’ to fully understand the significance of PPRs in enhancing sustainable construction.Keywords: Barriers, Drivers, Construction, Nigeria, post-project review, sustainable construction
Application of Automated Vehicle Location System in a Public Transit System in Ilorin, Nigeria: Issues and ChallengesO. O. Adeleke U. B. Usman, S. S. Kolo, O. O. Sijuwola, O. Akinola and A. A. OyawoyeAbstract: Intracity public transit services in urban centres of developing economies including Nigeria remain largely inefficient as evidenced in the noticeable large number of commuters waiting at bus stops for vehicles which arrival times or even operations are not predictable. This exactly describes the situation of public transit services along the University of Ilorin students’ movement corridor in Ilorin metropolis, Nigeria. This study was therefore carried out to enhance the performance of the public transportation system along the studied corridor through the application of Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVLS). The objectives were to: improve on the monitoring of vehicles and drivers; create an avenue for tracking of vehicles by riders and stimulate the development and deployment of AVLS technology. Automatic Vehicle Location Equipment was installed in two vehicles in the fleet of the University used for public transit and their movements monitored through SMS messages and the internet. The study showed that the vehicles varied their route from the scheduled designated route which is the studied student movement corridor a number of times during operational hours and on some days did not operate on the corridor. Issues and challenges that came to the fore during the study, which are responsible for the dearth in the application of AVLS in public vehicles operating on the movement corridor and by extension other urban centres in Nigeria include: lack of administrative will by heads and managers of public transport services to apply the technology; lack of funds; lack of requisite expertise and poor internet and GSM communication services. These issues should be addressed through enlightenment and investment in AVLS technology.Keywords: Automatic Vehicle Location System, Willingness, Enlightenment, Investment, Expertise
Combined Effect of Coconut Shell Ash-Groundnut Shell Ash (CSA-GSA) on the Properties of ConcreteM. J. Garba, U. Y. Shehu, S. P. Ejeh and A. LawalAbstract: This paper presents the findings of an investigation on coconut shell ash and groundnut shell ash CSA-GSA on the workability, density and compressive strength of concrete. The CSA-GSA used was obtained by controlled burning of coconut shell and groundnut shell in an incinerator to a temperature of 650ºC for 3 hours and a temperature of 600oC for 2 hours respectively, air cooled, sieved through 75μm sieve and characterized by using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analytical method. The workability, density and compressive strengths of concrete were investigated at varying CSA-GSA replacements of 0%CSA/0%GSA, 0%CSA/20%GSA, 5%CSA/15%GSA, 10%CSA/10%GSA, 15%CSA/5%GSA and 20%CSA/0%GSA respectively by weight of cement. A total of one hundred and forty-seven concrete cubes of size 100mm x 100mm x 100mm diameter of CSA-GSA concrete of 1:2:4 concrete mix and water-cement ratio of 0.55 were tested for density and compressive strengths at 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 56 days of curing in accordance with standard procedures. The result of the investigations showed that CSA had silicon dioxide (37.257%), aluminum oxide (22.832%), magnesium oxide (11.740%), iron oxide (10.726%) and calcium oxide (10.134%) and GSA had silicon dioxide (38.144%), aluminum oxide (10.986%), magnesium oxide (8.585%), iron oxide (5.503%) and calcium oxide (12.116%). The inclusion of CSA-GSA in concrete decreases the workability of concrete, decreases the density of the concrete with increase in the days of curing and also the compressive strengths increases with the increase in days of curing. However, up to 10%CSA/10%GSA is considered optimum percentage replacement which gives a compressive strength of 25.8N/mm2 and 27.3N/mm2 in 28 days and 56 days respectively.Keywords: Workability, density, compressive strength, concrete, coconut shell ash, and groundnut shell ash
Water Treatment Using Tamarindus Indica (Ti) LeaveM. Haruna, B.Y. Sanda, and M.H. BichiAbstract: Coagulation, softening and disinfection processes are of great importance in water treatment. In this study, experiments were conducted in the laboratory to investigate the coagulation, softening and disinfection properties of Tamarindus Indica (TI) leave in the treatment of synthetic and natural waters. Synthetic turbid water of high and medium turbidities were prepared in the laboratory using bentonite clay, kaolin clay and black cotton soils. A series of experiments were performed on high (439.7- 487 NTU) and medium (160.8 NTU) turbid waters with 83, 167, 333, 500, 835 1169mg/l of the coagulant. Effects of pH and temperature on flocculation efficiency of the coagulant were investigated. Bacterial reduction and hard water softening properties of the leave were also studied. The results showed TI recorded 80.88% high turbidity removal; 89.21% medium turbidity removal. 900mg/l initial water hardness was reduced by TI to 601.12mg/l (33.21%). TI showed 99.78% disinfection activity. The best result for turbidity removal was found at pH ranges from 7 to 7.5 and at temperatures between 20oC and 30oC. Although the leave showed some level of effectiveness, the water treated with these leave did not meet standard. The leave is therefore not adequately effective in water treatment.Keywords: Tamarindus Indica Leave, Turbidity, Softening, Disinfection, Jar test, pH, Temperature.
Reliability Analysis of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Bottled-Sandcrete Masonry Mariam A. TomoriAbstract: Plastic bottle sandcrete masonry is a new innovation in building industry which can assist to obtain a social equity by providing the use of reliable, strong and eco-friendly materials. This study aims to determine the reliability of plastic bottle sandcrete (PBS) masonry as a construction material. The reliability of sandcrete-bottled masonry was achieved using the constant failure rate method to determine the life span and service life of the building masonry. The 28-day average compressive strength of the PBS used was 1.1N/mm2 and analysed to compute its reliability. Conclusively, the reliability index of 0.6 was gotten for the PBS masonry which shows that it’s service life of 100years. It is thereby recommended for its adoption as a construction material for load and non-load bearing wall. Keywords: Polyethylene terephthalate, compressive strength, framed structured, Masonry infill walls, reliability
Reliability Analysis of Concrete Mixed with Bamboo Leaf Ash in CompressionOluwaseye Onikeku, Stanley Muse Shitote, John Mwero, Adeola. A. Adedeji and Mariam A. TomoriAbstract: This study aims to determine the reliability of bamboo leaf (BLA) concrete copmposite material. The reliability of the BLA concrete in compression was achieved using the constant failure rate method to determine the service life of the concrete.. Concrete cubes were casted and cured at 7, 28, 56, and 90 days respectively. A total number of five mixes were investigated, four out of the mix were dedicated for examining the impacts of BLA on the characteristics of concrete. According to the analysis and experimental results obtained, BLA improved split tensile, compressive, and flexural strength bench mark at 10% as optimum level of replacement. BLA concrete is seen as a reliable concrete that can perform satisfactorily for more than 60years. The reliability analysis conducted using constant failure rate methods shows that BLA at 10% gives the highest mean time to failure of 68years. BLA reduced setting time, consistency, compacting factor, slump, water absorption, permeable voids, sorptivity, and density.The results herewith show that BLA-concrete composition is considered a good material that can improve the concrete properties in compression.Keyword: Reliability analysis, reliability index, compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, concrete
Vol. 16, No. 2, 2019
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