FUDMA Journal of Renewable and Atomic Energy
The journal covers diverse fields of renewable energy such as: Green (Renewable) Energy Sources and Systems (GESSs), such as Wind power, Hydropower, Solar Energy, Biomass, Biofuel, Geothermal Energy, Wave Energy, Tidal energy, Hydrogen & Fuel Cells, Li-ion Batteries and Capacitors, New Trends in Technologies, policies, strategies, applications for GESSs, GESSs for Electrical Vehicles and Components, Computational Methods for GESSs, Novel Energy Conversion Studies and designs in GESSs, Driving Circuits, control techniques, grid interactive and hybrid systems in Green Energy Systems. Renewable Energy Research and Applications for Industries, Artificial Intelligence Studies, Machine Learning for Renewable Energy Applications, Energy Savings, Sustainable and Clean Energy Issues, Public Awareness and Education for Renewable Energy, Thermoelectric Energy, Energy Conservation in Buildings, Computational Methods and Artificial Intelligence Studies in Renewable Energy Sources, Biomass Conversion Photovoltaic, Solar Thermal Applications, Desalination Solar and Low Energy Architecture, Climatology and Meteorology, Nuclear Meteorology, Geothermal Technology, Micro Grid . Others are; Nuclear Physics, Nuclear energy studies, Nuclear electronics, Nuclear power, Nuclear Reactors, Radiation-Bio Physics, Nuclear Chemistry. Applied Mathematics/Computational Dynamics, Mathematical modeling. Energy Economics. Waste management/waste to wealth.
Centre for Renewable and Atomic Energy Research , Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Nigeria.
Geo-Investigation for Gold Mineralisation Veins in Part of Kushaka Schist Belts, Niger State Nigeria, using an integrated approach
The research attempt to delineate the exact position and depth to gold loads within sheets 164_Minna on latitude 9.30’ to 10.00 North and longitude 6.30’ to 7.00 East at the terminal end of Minna-Kushaka schist belt. The research employed magnetic, radiometric and very low frequency methods. Eight structural lineaments labelled F1 to F8 where mapped from magnetic data, these structures resulted from the deformation of the basement metamorphic rocks when intrude by volcanic intrusions. Majority of these faultiness area trending in the NE-SW direction. The Hydrothermal altered zones was investigated using K/eTh ratio, K_deviation and F_parameter derived from the Radiometric data, Regions with values Potasium-ratio_Thorium (K/Th) ranging from 0.3 – 0.5 %/ppm, K_deviation from 7.3 to 60.6 and F_Parameter from 0.8 to 1.3 respectively were delineated as having being considerably altered. A comprehensive analysis of these results, was used to produce a ternary image in which the delineated region of hydrothermal altered zones appearing in whitish and grey colour located around Minna and Tudun-Fulani, Shakwatu, Shekwata, Gunnu, Sarkin- Pawa, Shiroro, Gunni and Fuka villages. Euler analysis determine the of depths deposits ranging from 5 to 88 metres. Coincidentally mining activities are currently in progress around Shakwatu, Shekwata, Asha, Sarkin- Pawa which falls within the regions delineated. In view of the above, the study recommends the exploration for gold mineral along the profiles VLF A, VLF B, VLF C, VLF D, VLF E, VLF F, VLF G, VLF H, VLF I, VLF J and VLF K respectively. The highest hydrothermal signature correlates with biotite gneiss zones intruded by quartz schist, typical hosts for orogenic gold. The research indicated that location of potentials correlate to the region where exploration is currently going on and beyond, findings from this study can support safer and more efficient resource extraction with minimal environmental impact.
Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Renewable and Atomic Energy
Effect of Chord Length on the Aerodynamic Performance of VAWTs with NACA 0015 Airfoil at Low Wind Speeds.
The aerodynamic performance of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) in low-wind regions is strongly influenced by blade geometry, with chord length playing a key role in optimizing energy capture. Despite their low performance challenges, VAWTs remain a viable option for harnessing wind energy in urban and low-wind-speed environments. The NACA 0015 airfoil has been widely recommended by many studies for its effectiveness under such conditions. However, few studies have specifically investigated the impact of chord length on the performance of VAWTs using the NACA 0015 airfoil, despite numerous optimization efforts. This study investigates the influence of blade chord length on the aerodynamic performance of VAWT employing the NACA 0015 airfoil under low wind speed conditions, specifically 3m/s and 4m/s. Using 2D transient CFD simulations with the SST k-ω turbulence model, three chord lengths (0.1 m, 0.2 m, and 0.3 m) were assessed over a Tip Speed Ratio (TSR) range of 2.0 to 4.5. The findings from this study showed that chord length plays a dominant role in the performance of a VAWT in low wind regimes. While the configuration with 0.1m chord length generated the maximum power coefficient (Cp) of 0.395 during the 4m/s wind speed, the 0.2m chord length configuration produced a more stable performance with a peak Cp of 0.371. At a wind speed of 3m/s, the configuration with 0.3m chord length displayed signs of deteriorating performance due to an excessive increase in solidity. The findings provide insight into optimal chord sizing for small-scale VAWTs operating in urban low-wind environments, supporting design decisions for decentralized wind energy systems.
Evaluating Time Series and Machine Learning Approaches for Forecasting Inflation in Nigeria
Inflation forecasting is crucial for economic planning, policy formulation, and financial decision-making. This study evaluates the performance of various forecasting models for inflation in Nigeria, including Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). These models were selected for their proven effectiveness in macroeconomic forecasting and their ability to capture both linear and non-linear trends. Monthly inflation data from 2000 to 2024 were obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), enabling a comprehensive analysis of long-term inflation trends. The performance of the models was assessed using Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). Results indicate that standalone ARIMA performed poorly, with high error metrics (MSE: 13.35, RMSE: 11.42, MAPE: 37.74%), highlighting its limitations in capturing non-linear inflation patterns. In contrast, machine learning models, particularly ANN (MSE: 1.758, RMSE: 1.694, MAPE: 0.059%), significantly outperformed ARIMA. Hybrid models demonstrated superior performance, with ARIMA-ANN achieving the best results (MSE: 0.611, RMSE: 0.755, MAPE: 0.054%), underscoring the effectiveness of combining statistical and machine learning techniques. While hybrid models, particularly ARIMA-ANN, offer a robust framework for inflation forecasting, their computational complexity and risk of overfitting require careful optimization. The study also assesses model efficiency to ensure practical applicability for economic decision-making. The findings provide policymakers with a reliable forecasting tool to mitigate inflation volatility, optimize monetary policy, and enhance economic stability. This research concludes that hybrid modeling, despite its complexity, provides more accurate and reliable predictive insights, making it a valuable tool for economic planning and policy formulation.
Degradation of TIO₂ Antireflection Coatings: Thermal and Mechanical Stress Effects Over 35 Years
This study investigates the effects of 35 years of thermal and mechanical stress on titanium dioxide () antireflection coating, as well as the /GaAs interface. The analysis was conducted using the COMSOL Multiphysics environment, employing heat transfer in solids and structural mechanics models to evaluate key parameters under the temperature range of -40 to 140 and load of 10N, including the first principal stress, surface emissivity, /GaAs interface toughness, deformation gradient, and crack growth direction. The findings reveal that during the first five years under the specified thermal and mechanical boundary conditions such as surface-to-ambient radiation, fracture mechanic, convective heat transfer etc, the first principal stress at the coating surface and interface decreased to 0.07MPa and 0.08MPa, respectively, while the deformation gradient exhibited negligible changes. However, between 5 and 20 years, a sharp increase in stress was observed, with values rising to 0.14MPa at the surface and 0.19MPa at the interface. The significant deformation gradient resulted in a reduction of surface emissivity from 0.9 to 0.3 and a decline in interface toughness from 0.25MPa to 0.01MPa. A crack growth direction magnitude of 0.83% was detected, particularly at both the coating edges and interface. Between 20 and 35 years, both the stress and deformation gradient increased gradually, gesturing that the coating could no longer withstand additional stress at this stage. These results provide valuable insights into failure mode analysis during the practical stress testing of photovoltaic modules, aiding in the assessment of long-term performance and reliability. This study investigates the effects of 35 years of thermal and mechanical stress on titanium dioxide () antireflection coating, as well as the /GaAs interface. The analysis was conducted using the COMSOL Multiphysics environment, employing heat transfer in solids and structural mechanics models to evaluate key parameters under the temperature range of -40 to 140 and load of 10N, including the first principal stress, surface emissivity, /GaAs interface toughness, deformation gradient, and crack growth direction. The findings reveal that during the first five years under the specified thermal and mechanical boundary conditions such as surface-to-ambient radiation, fracture mechanic, convective heat transfer etc, the first principal stress at the coating surface and interface decreased to 0.07MPa and 0.08MPa, respectively, while the deformation gradient exhibited negligible changes. However, between 5 and 20 years, a sharp increase in stress was observed, with values rising to 0.14MPa at the surface and 0.19MPa at the interface. The significant deformation gradient resulted in a reduction of surface emissivity from 0.9 to 0.3 and a decline in interface toughness from 0.25MPa to 0.01MPa. A crack growth direction magnitude of 0.83% was detected, particularly at both the coating edges and interface. Between 20 and 35 years, both the stress and deformation gradient increased gradually, gesturing that the coating could no longer withstand additional stress at this stage. These results provide valuable insights into failure mode analysis during the practical stress testing of photovoltaic modules, aiding in the assessment of long-term performance and reliability.
Energy Efficiency and Carbon Emission Reduction in Institutional Lighting: A case study of Twin Theater Lecture Room.
Improper lighting conditions in educational institutions may impact both the health and working capacity of students. significant amount of energy consumption is generally attributed to lighting systems since most institutions are still utilizing non-efficient illuminants, including incandescent, tungsten halogen, and high intensity discharge light bulbs. This study aims to conduct a preliminary energy audit of the twin theatre building using physical survey by counting the numbers lamps, their wattage and the hours of usage. The lighting system integrating day lighting with weather conditions requires a simulation tool and to compare the power consumption with the base case and proposed case. Propose energy-saving strategies evaluate the impact on energy efficiency of lightings systems. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Technology Screen (RET Screen) is a software used in this study to analyze greenhouse gasses. Energy consumption from the two scenarios was compared, and emission savings was evaluated. The preliminary energy audit utilized RET Screen to calculate base case energy consumption, considering lightings systems quantity, operating hours. The software RET Screen was used to develop the energy model and Greenhouse gas emissions reduction. The study case to be a Twin theater of a Kaduna state university main campus. and the electrical energy expenses decreasing by 10.512 kWh per year of the Twin theatre, which is over 75%. The greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions dropped by 149.8 kgCO2 eq. annually of the Twin theater which is about 47.3% This analysis supports the advantages of using LEDs instead of fluorescent lamps, also reduces GHG emissions despite the high lumen deterioration of LEDs.
The use of Internet of Things (IOT) in modern day agriculture
The agricultural sector plays a vital role in the global economy, underscoring the need for innovative technologies to boost productivity and sustainability. This study delves into the potential of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in modern agriculture, with a focus on optimizing crop yields and resource allocation. By leveraging IoT-enabled devices, farmers can access real-time data on soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health. This enables precise decision-making, reduces inefficiencies, and promotes sustainable agricultural practices. The study highlights the transformative potential of IoT in addressing pressing challenges in agriculture, including water scarcity, nutrient management, and pest control. The findings of this study suggest that IoT adoption can bridge the gap between traditional and smart farming, paving the way for more sustainable agricultural systems. Specifically, IoT technologies can benefit small-scale farmers by providing them with actionable insights and recommendations to improve crop yields and resource allocation. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of IoT to revolutionize agricultural practices, promoting sustainability, productivity, and efficiency. By harnessing the power of IoT, farmers can adopt more precise and data-driven approaches to agriculture, ultimately contributing to a more food-secure future.
Comparative Analysis of GA-Optimised Decision Tree and Logistic Regression for Web Intrusion Detection
This study presents a comparative analysis of Decision Tree and Logistic Regression models, each Optimised through Genetic Algorithm (GA)-based feature selection, to enhance the accuracy of website intrusion detection. The study leverages the Thursday Morning Web Attack dataset from the Canadian Institute of Cybersecurity. The dataset, encompassing 170,366 records and 76 features, is specifically tailored to web-based attacks such as SQL injection, brute force, and Cross-Site Scripting (XSS). The GA is employed to iteratively refine feature subsets, enhancing model performance through selection, crossover, and mutation processes. Evaluation metrics, including accuracy, F1 scores, and ROC curves, are utilized to assess model efficacy. The findings reveal that GA optimization significantly improves the performance of the Decision Tree model, achieving notable advancements in classification metrics, especially for complex attack types like Brute Force and SQL Injection. While the Logistic Regression model also shows competitive results, it faces minor trade-offs in accuracy regarding XSS attack detection with GA optimization. This research addresses a critical gap in cybersecurity literature by systematically evaluating the effectiveness of GA-enhanced models in a comparative context. The insights gained lay the groundwork for future research on hybrid models and effective website intrusion detection.
Copyright (c) 2024 FUDMA Journal of Renewable and Atomic Energy
The Role of Perceived Value and Risk in USSD Mobile Banking Adoption
The adoption of Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) technology has significantly transformed mobile banking in Nigeria, offering cost-effective and seamless access to financial services. This study i[1]nvestigates the factors influencing the adoption of USSD mobile banking within the Katsina banking sector, using an Extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the analytical framework. A quantitative survey involving 120 valid responses from bank customers was analyzed using simple regression in SPSS. The findings reveal that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived cost, and perceived efficiency are significant determinants of USSD mobile banking adoption. However, perceived risk did not exhibit a significant impact on user acceptance, indicating that customers generally view USSD banking as secure and reliable. The study underscores the importance of expanding USSD services to rural areas, where its low-cost, non-smartphone-dependent functionality can bridge financial inclusion gaps. Recommendations are provided for banks to enhance service delivery and accessibility in underserved regions, leveraging USSD's unique advantages. *Corresponding author contact: wabans05@yahoo.com. +234-7039213875
Robust LQR-Based Autopilot Design for Hybrid Energy Harvesting UAVs
The hybrid energy harvest light surveillance unmanned aircraft is designed to be powered with a wind energy fuel-cell. The fuel-cell will produce electrical energy through a regenerative chemical reaction. In the absence of this chemical reaction, energy will be extracted from the vertical gradients of the horizontal wind through a process known as dynamic soaring. For the safe operation of the UAV, stabilization and trajectory control are essential. These features are achieved with the aid of a robust flight control system (autopilot). Owning to the advantages of Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) over other controllers which include, its ability to handle Multiple INpute Multiple Output systems and its superior performanc when handling unceertainties and disturbances, it was employed for the design of the control system. The nonlinear simulation model that gives a good representation of the UAV in MATLAB/Simulink environment was developed taking into account the aerodynamic components in 6DOF of equation of motion, the propulsion and the gravity effects. Trimming, decoupling and linearization of the developed nonlinear model were carried out. In order to evaluate the performance of the LQR controller, the response of the system to perturbation was compared to that of the closed loop system with the LQR implemented. In the open loop case none of the states being measured returned to their original value after the introduction of disturbances for 2 seconds. For the closed loop control using the LQR, stability was achieved in the following states; Side velocity, Yaw Rate, Yaw angle, Roll rate and roll angle with their settling times being 36, 40, 41, 30 and 46 seconds respectively. Open loop responses of the models to various control inputs indicated the accuracy of the models. The linearized models were used to design the Autopilot system that has the tendency of stabilizing the UAV in the presence of any uncertainty. The closed loop systems were tested and the influence of different disturbances and the results indicated that the LQR base autopilot is robust enough to ensure safe flight of the UAV
Automated Solar Tracker Utilizing RTC Timing for Enhanced Photovoltaic Energy Generation
The problems of energy scarcity and global warming brought the interest of developing strategies for harnessing renewable energy resources. Solar energy is among the most promising sources of renewable energy. Solar trackers significantly improve a photovoltaic (PV) systems electricity production. In this research work, an automated solar tracker with data logger has been designed and constructed. This automatic tracking system consists of two parts: hardware and software. Hardware part includes voltage regulators; RTC timing device, LCD display, WIFI module, relay circuit and DC motors, while, the software part contained an Arduino programming codes used for tracking system and logging the measured solar PV data. The Atmega328 microcontroller contained in the Arduino board was used to receive the input analog signal from the RTC device which was converted to digital and gives the command to the DC motor to rotate the solar PV panel towards the sun direction. The tracker solar PV panel was tested, and it was found that the solar panel reached maximum power generated from the hour of 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. A fixed PV panel of same size was also placed side by side and tested with the solar tracking system. The result from tracked PV panel shows an efficiency increase of about 33% over the non-tracking panel. These results indicated that the automatic solar tracker would be recommended for use in solar power generation because it increases the efficiency of the solar power generated, and it is cost-effective.
Genetic Algorithm-Based Feature Selection for Optimizing Website Intrusion Detection Model
The widespread use of the internet and digital platforms has made websites essential for communication, business, and accessing information. However, this reliance has also heightened cybersecurity concerns, as cyber-attacks on web applications pose risks such as data theft, malware installation, and redirection to malicious sites. Cybersecurity is increasingly leveraging machine learning and predictive analysis to proactively identify and mitigate potential web application attacks. Nonetheless, the key challenge in website attack prediction is identifying the most relevant features that balance accurate predictions with manageable computational overhead. While Genetic Algorithm-based feature selection techniques hold promise, their effectiveness should be evaluated on datasets containing common web attacks such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and cross-site request forgery (CSRF). Additionally, metrics beyond accuracy should be considered to assess their generalizability and overall performance. This research investigates the application of Genetic Algorithms (GA) for feature selection in website attack prediction using Decision Tree and Logistic Regression models. The algorithms were evaluated using accuracy and F1-score metrics. The findings revealed that feature selection using GA significantly reduces the number of features to up to 86.8% while maintaining or improving detection accuracy and reduced overfitting. This 86.8% reduction in features simplifies the model while saving resources. The findings highlight the potential of GA as a valuable method for feature selection in website attack prediction.
Optimization of TiO_2 Nanostructure Antireflection Coatings for Enhanced Optical Performance in GaAs Solar Cells
This study presents the effects of the various titanium dioxide nanostructures as anti-reflection coatings on solar cells. The study is conducted in the COMSOL Multi-physics environment where solar cell and titanium dioxide based antireflection coating are simulated. The optical properties of the solar cells with and without the coating were evaluated. Three different coating particles were used; cubic, spherical and pyramidal. The simulation results showed that the cubic nanostructure was found to be more effective, reducing the reflectance percentage from 25.5% without to 3.55% with the ARC at a dimension of 50 nm. The pyramidal nanostructure at same width and a height of 100 nm also demonstrated a reduction in reflectance to 9.9%. This result will definitely enhance the absorption capability of the solar cell whereby increasing its overall efficiency.
Antireflection, Coating, COMSOL, Nanostructure, Solar cell, Titanium dioxide
The Role of Nuclear Physics in Radiological Safety in Nigeria: A Review
This review paper delves into the critical role of nuclear physics in advancing radiological safety in Nigeria, where the use of radiation in medical, industrial, and potential energy sectors is on the rise. The paper provides a detailed examination of how nuclear physics underpins the understanding, management, and mitigation of radiation exposure risks. It offers an in-depth analysis of the current state of radiological safety in Nigeria, focusing on the regulatory framework, specific challenges, and opportunities for enhancement. Key contributions of nuclear physics highlighted include advancements in radiation detection, dosimetry, shielding, and the safe handling of radioactive materials. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating nuclear physics principles into regulatory practices and public health strategies. It identifies gaps in current practices and recommends actionable steps for improving safety standards, including the need for targeted research, education, and international collaboration. The findings underscore the necessity of a robust, well-coordinated approach to radiological safety, which is vital for protecting public health and the environment. The paper concludes with recommendations for government-led public engagement programs to increase awareness of radiological safety and the pivotal role of nuclear physics in safeguarding against radiation risks.
Assessment of Heavy Metals (As, Cr, Zn) Contamination in Soil from Kawarin Yashe Artisanal Gold Mine, Northwestern Nigeria Using Instrumental Neutron Activation (INAA)
This study was conducted in one of the few locally Gold mines in Katsina State Northwestern Nigeria called Kawarin Yashe Artisanal Gold mines. The concentration of As, Cr and Zn in gold bearing soil in the mines were investigated using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) techniques. Stratified random sampling technique was adopted using soil auger at about 25 - 100 cm to the ground. Experimental results showed that s has a mean concentration of 2.82 ± 0.11 mg/kg, ranging from 0.54 ± 0.14 to 5.11 ± 0.09 mg/kg, Cr has a mean concentration of 46.6 ± 2.0mg/kg ranging from 3.03 to 88.7 ± 105mg/kg and Zn has a mean concentration of 47.96 ± 7.10 mg/kg ranging from 16.30 to 97.2 ± 10mg/kg. The values of As are within the average of 5mg/kg and range 1-50 values, Cr are within the world average values and within the tolerable limit of 100 mg/kg and range of 1-100 mg/kg, respectively. The values of Zn was above the world average of 50 mg/kg. The concentrations obtained in the work are more than the world average values and tolerable limit which implies that the miners and surrounding communities are at risk due to the high concentration of Zn in the area, despite the non-technical nature of the mining activities.
A Biplot Analysis of Crime Victimizations in the Rural Areas of Dutsin-Ma/Kurfi Federal Constituency, Katsina State, Nigeria
Victimization from criminal activities is an inevitable phenomenon at all ages of human existence. However, the growing sophisticated violent and organized criminal activities in Nigeria have resulted in leveling the country with a soaring crime rates. Many manageable crimes from rural areas were metamorphosing to sophisticated crimes because little is known about them as the result of under-reporting to the police. To complement the Nigeria crime statistics, this work conducted crime victimization survey in the rural areas of Dutsin-Ma/Kurfi Federal Constituency during the last quarter of 2023. The crimes were banditry, rape, murder, theft, burglary, robbery, fraud and assault. A biplot method of principal component analysis was used to simultaneously display the crimes and the relative position of the wards and villages. The results show a significant correlation between banditry, rape and murder that indicates the activities of banditry transcends to occasional murder and raping. The eastern part of the constituency enjoys relative peace and security because of lower crime concentrations, while the western part that neighbour forest reserves suffers from high crime concentrations and in particular the widespread of banditry. The most vulnerable areas are Sanawa, Kuki B and Dabawa wards in Dutsin-Ma local government area, and Wurma A and B, Kurfi A, Bambadawa and Danmarke wards in Kurfi local government area. It was also observed that the prevalence of theft and burglary is related to urbanization. The government should consider urban and socio-economic related problems and the impact of forest reserves in controlling urban related crimes and in fighting banditry in the North-western part of Nigeria, respectively
HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS AND ASSOCIATED RISK BY SOME PHAEMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS AROUND SAMARU-ZARIA NIGERIA BASED ON XRF AND ASS METHODS.
In this study, we evaluate the level of heavy metals presence by some pharmaceutical products in Samau-Zaria - Nigeria. Samples were collected and suggested to Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescent spectrometry (EDXRF) where eighteen (18) elements were detected and Varian AA240 Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) test methods which indicate that the test average of Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni and Fe are 0.02916 mg/kg, 1.283933 mg/kg, 0.00942 mg/kg, 0.422673 mg/kg and 0.31278 mg/kg respectively. Cr had the lowest concentration, whereas Cd had the greatest. Suspension medicines have higher Fe levels than tablets. Cd was ranked higher than Cr, Pb, Ni, and Fe in terms of chronic daily intake (CDI). Lead varied from 1.174 mg/kg to 9.687 mg/kg (average: 4.822 mg/kg), Cd from 7.21 mg/kg to 7.94 mg/kg (average: 7.738 mg/kg), Cr from 1.03 mg/kg to 8.45 mg/kg (average: 4.29 mg/kg), Ni from 1.06 mg/kg to 9.09 mg/kg (average: 3.158 mg/kg), and Fe from 1.07 mg/kg to 8.59 mg/kg (average: 2.352 mg/kg). Pb > Cr > Ni > Fe > Cd was the order of the total hazard quotient (THQ). The following ranges applied to Pb, Cd, Ni, and Fe: Pb increased from 2.029 mg/kg to 9.661 mg/kg (average: 5.104 mg/kg), Cd decreased from 0.001441 mg/kg to 0.001587 mg/kg (average: 0.0015 mg/kg), Cr decreased from 1.174 mg/kg to 8.454 mg/kg (average: 3.699 mg/kg), Ni increased from 1.10577 mg/kg to 6.9187 mg/kg (average: 2.922 mg/kg), and Fe decreased from 1.227 mg/kg to 4.511 mg/kg (2.523 mg/kg). Pb, Cr, and Fe levels did not meet WHO/FAO guidelines it is therefore recommended that precautionary action should be applied.
Testing For Stationarity On Selected Linear And Non-Linear Time Series Models Of Different Orders
In this research, Understanding the assumptions of time series models is crucial. In this study, we aim to analyse and modify Autoregressive models on selected linear and nonlinear time series models to determine their stationarity and non-stationarity at different orders, it would be useful to conduct tests on the null hypothesis of a unit root. The study examines the power and type I error rates of different statistical tests, such as Kwiatkowski, Phillips, Schmidt and Shin (KPSS), Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF), and Phillips Perron (PP). These tests are used to determine whether a given dataset is stationary or non-stationary. The study also considers different orders of Autoregressive (AR) and Trigonometric Smooth Transition Autoregressive (TSTAR) models, as well as various sample sizes. A Python software was utilised to conduct an investigation simulating the performance of stationarity and unit root tests. The experiments were carried out using sample sizes; 20, 50, 70, 100, 120, 150, 180, 200, 230 and 250 for various orders of Autoregressive (AR) and Trigonometric Smooth Transition Autoregressive (TSTAR) models. The tests were compared based on their respective power percentages to determine their relative performance. The study determined that Phillips Perron (PP) is the optimal choice across all the conditions examined, including the models, sample sizes, and ordering.
Morphological and Elemental Analysis of Sugarcane, Beans and Rice Husks Ash (SBRHA)
The morphological and elemental analysis of materials to assess their composition and suitability for various applications. Using agricultural crop wastes such as sugar cane back, rice husks, beans pod, as a partial replacement of sand in the manufacture of cement blocks, because they contain high calcium, silicon, aluminium, iron and other ingredients when control. The need to convert them into useful materials to minimize their negative effect on the environment. 100 g of untreated samples was measured in ratio 2:1:1 which is 50 g of sugar cane back, 25 g of beans pod and 25 g of rice husk. Sugarcane, beans and rice husks ash (SBRHA) as a silica source was structured, resulting from burning at a temperature of 550°C within 4:00 hours in an electric furnace. SBRHA consists of inorganic, combustible matter in the rice husk that has been fused into an amorphous structure. Microscopic techniques, such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with (Energy Dispersion X-ray (EDX) were used to observe the surface and internal structure of the (SBRHA) the results among other things revealed that (SBRHA) consist of mainly Si, (61.43%), K (14.81%), Fe (1.41%), Al (2.05%) and Ca (5.59%) microscope examination showed that has a porous cellular structure and consists of irregular – shaped particles. This study has contributed to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the field of materials science, particularly in the utilization of biomass resources for innovative applications.
Effect of High Concentration of Equivalent Thorium (eTh) And Uranium (eU) Within Part of North Central Nigeria on Geothermal Parameters
A high amount of heat flow from a shallow curie depth is essentially related to a promising geothermal resource. This work explores the depth of demagnetisation due to high radiogenic heat content of the basement rocks. The Total Magnetic Intensity and the radiometric data, consisting of the Potassium count, the Uranium and Thorium equivalents, were employed for the research work. Sheet 145 (Kajuru) and 146 (Geshere) both on latitude 10°00'N to 10°30'N and longitude 7°30'E to 8°30'E covering 6,050 km2 within Kaduna State of Central Nigeria is an area with notedly high concentrations of these radionuclide by previous researchers. A shallow Curie point depth of 12.00 km was observed below Wugana while heat flow values ranging from 30.00 mW/m2 to 160 mW/m2 was estimated with an average of 80.60 mW/m2. Also, the geothermal gradients varied from 8.00 to 50.00 °CKm-1, with an average value of 25.50 °CKm-1. The effect of heat generated from the Potassium count, equivalent concentrations of Uranium and Thorium indicated the Northern end down to the Mid-western end displays medium to high radiogenic heat production (3.6 – 4.5 μW/m3). In conclusion, areas with low Currie depth that coincide with relatively high radiogenic heat production are located within Wugana, New Kwasan, and down to Ron villages, which are generally located at the Mid-North and Mid-Western areas with intrusive granitic rocks
Application of Building Information Modeling Tool for evaluation of Energy Utilization in Kaduna state University Main campus building
In the context of environmental policy, many institutions in Nigeria launched a series of initiatives aimed at increasing the use of energy efficiency, as it has pledged to reduce energy consumption. The energy upgrade of the building sector produces various benefits such as reduced energy consumption, which is consistent with the reduction of air pollution. Furthermore, there is a significant improvement at the interior comfort conditions of the building, which promotes efficiency and occupant health., Because of the large number of educational buildings in the institution, the energy consumption of building presents a significant amount of the total energy consumption and simultaneously has the effect of increasing the costs paid by the institution budget for the operation and maintenance of the buildings. The investigation of alternative methods to reduce energy consumption in educational buildings is an imperative approach for sustainability and economic development of the institution over time. The purpose of this paper is to study the extent of Energy use intensity and cost at faculty of science of University building in Kaduna state University main campus and optimized the building energy model under study. The results obtained shown that the EUI before optimization was 299kWh/m2/yr, while after the optimization was 153kWh/m2/yr. Hence 146kWh/M2/Yr was conserved for EUI and 9.7USD/M2/Yr saved for the cost of the Faculty of science building under study. It is therefore necessary to carry out energy analysis using BIM as retrofitting strategies after the building construction, in order to curtail energy consumption in pursuit of required interior thermal comfort conditions
Measurement of Ionizing Radiation Exposure Rate and Determination of Radiological Risk in Ogu Community, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
The presence of radiation in the environment could lead to health risks. Radiation exposure to humans could be through inhalation, ingestion, irradiation from external sources and more. Hence the need for reliable and unceasing measurement of background ionizing radiation. The background ionizing radiation in Ogu community has been measured and radiation hazards calculated. The radalert was used for the measurement at thirty randomly selected sampling points across. Results show that background ionizing radiation, absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose equivalent as well as excess life cancer risk ranges from (0.006 – 0.026) with average of 0.012 , (52.20 – 226.20) with average of 104.40 , (0.50 – 2.19) with average of 1.01 , (0.080 – 0.347) with average of 0.160 and (0.280 – 1.215) with average of respectively. Plots from the results show that nearly all measured points have values above world averages except for equivalent dose. This is an indication of probability of developing radiological consequences by residents of Ogu after exposure for a long time.
Estimation of Monthly Solar Radiation at Take-Off Campus, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, Nigeria
The research is aimed at estimating the monthly global solar radiation at the Take-Off Campus of Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, Nigeria from March 2018 to April 2019. The study area lies exactly between longitude 7 ̊ 30΄20.32 ̎ E of the Greenwich meridian and latitude 12 ̊ 27΄ 38.66 ̎ N of the equator. This research made use of Hargreaves- Samani equation in estimating the amount of solar radiation on the proposed buildings using daily temperature data (minimum and maximum) obtained from the meteorological station of the University. The monthly estimated global solar radiation values were estimated to be 17.82, 19.88, 34.18, 19.21, 18.61, 18.16, 18.02, 21.61, 20.77, 23.72, 24.40, 25.56, 26.24 and 15.18 (MJm-1d-1). Solar radiation data is essential for climate studies, weather forecasting and climate change research that can provide insights into regional and global balance and also solar radiation data provides information about the amount of solar energy available in a specific location, which is essential for accurate solar energy forecasting
Temperature, Extra-terrestrial Radiation,
Impacts of Physical Health Hazards of Healthcare Waste Management Practice on Public Health Workers in General Hospitals of Katsina State, Nigeria
This research determines the impact of physical health hazards of healthcare waste management practice on public health workers' in Katsina State general hospitals. This research used a cross-sectional survey design. All public health personnel employed at general hospitals in Katsina State were included in the population. The General hospitals were stratified into the three existing senatorial zones. Purposive sampling method was used to select two general hospitals in each of the zones. Twenty percent (20%) of the population of public healthcare workers in charge of waste management practice were selected for this project in each of the hospitals. Researcher’s designed questionnaire was used for this study which was subjected to pilot test using Cronbach’s Alpha with internal consistencies of 0.719. The data collected were described in mean and standard deviation to describe the research question raised for this study. While t-test independent sample was used to compare the opinion of male and female public healthcare staff. The hypothesis was tested at 0.05 level of significance. The result shows that the hypothesis was accepted showing that the view of both male and female public healthcare workers on physical health hazards variables considered for this study were not significant. The study concluded that, the physical health hazards of both the male and female public healthcare workers were not significant. The opinions of public healthcare workers on physical health hazards does not differ from each other’s on practice of healthcare waste management in General Hospitals in Katsina State.
Device Simulation Of Free Hole Transport Layer (FHTL) Based On FASnI3 Perovskite Solar Cell With C60 Electron Transport Layer (ETL)
In this study, we performed device simulation for free hole transport layer (FHTL) perovskite solar cells based on with electron transport layer (ETL) to investigate the impact of the light absorbing layer on the performances of the proposed device. This layer is responsible for photon’s absorptions and generation of charge carriers. The proposed solar cells (Glass / ) have been computed and simulated using a one-dimensional solar capacitances simulator (1D – SCAPS software) governed by Poisson’s and continuity equations. The results of designed parameters obtained from experimental and theoretical reported works were employed during the simulation process for the proposed solar cell and the calculated optimized power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the perovskite solar cells is 17.38 (%) when compared with experimental work with power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.4 %. The effect of the light absorbing layer was analyzed based on varying layer thickness, defect density and band gap with an optimized open circuit voltage of , close circuit current , Fill factor and . The results of the study give tin-based perovskite solar cells more strong hold if adopted in the design of Photovoltaic modules and thin film technology, due to their high estimated power conversion efficiency and fill factor with almost zero environmental effect than a perovskite solar cells designed based on lead.
Agricultural Waste Derived (Rice Husk, Corncob and Ground Nut Shell) Activated Carbon as Promising Electrode Materials for Supercapacitor Applications.
The Preparation of sustainable and highly efficient biochars as electrodes materials remains a challenge for developing green energy storage devices. In this study, proficient carbon electrodes were produced from activated carbon (AC) derived from agricultural wastes (corncob, groundnut shells and rice husk) for supercapacitor (SC) cell via a physio-chemical technique. Biochars activated by potassium hydroxide (KOH) were explored as a prototype to be used for the preparation of electrodes for supercapacitor. The physical and chemical properties of the produced ACs were characterized using TGA, XRD, SEM and BET. The electrochemical performances of the constructed AC electrodes were studied using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Thermal decomposition behavior TGA confirmed a suitable temperature of about 3500C for the carbonization of the agricultural waste precursors, the structural analyses using XRD confirmed the successful transformation of the carbon-containing waste into an amorphous and carbonaceous material. The BET analysis shows that surface area for the agricultural waste derived AC samples were 514.113, 950.046 and 1088.124 m2/g for corncobs, groundnut shells and rice husk respectively. The AC derived from rice husk have the largest developed micropore content as confirmed by SEM and BET, demonstrating its suitability for applications that requires high surface area materials than the corncob and groundnut shell ACs. The electrochemical performance of the electrodes was anlysed using EIS, the Nyquist Impedance plot shows that the rice husk AC electrode sample was the closest to vertical which indicates that it has the least parallel leakage reaction, followed by the corncob and ground nut shell AC samples respectively. These results suggested that agricultural waste derived ACs are promising candidates for high-performance supercapacitors. In these studies, the rice husk was considered a higher-efficiency precursor, followed by corncob and groundnut shell for bio-based electrode preparation to be employed in SCs.
Keywords: Electrode materials, supercapacitors, Activated carbons, Agricultural waste, porous structure