Al-Rafidain Engineering Journal

Home
Iraq
Mosul
Al-Rafidain Engineering Journal

مجلة هندسة الرافدين هي مجلة علمية هندسية صدرت لاول مرة عام 1993

أن المجلة هندسة الرافدين هي مجلة عالمية علمية محكمة تصدر عن كلية الهندسة، جامعة الموصل، الموصل، العراق. تنشر المجلة باللغة العربية والانكليزية البحوث العلمية الأصيلة والمتميزة والتقارير والمراجعات في مختلف ميادين العلوم الهندسية وهي مجلة مفتوحة الموصول اي ان جميع محتوياتها متاحة مجانا للمستخدم. يشترط في البحث المقدم للنشر أن لا يكون قد نشر أو تحت الاختبار للنشر في أية مجلة أخرى. تقيم البحوث من ذوي

الاختصاص قبل قبولها للنشر، جميع بحوث مجلة هندسة الرافدين تمتلك رقم تعريفي خاص بكل بحث. وتصدر المجلة مرتين في السنة ، وتدرج بحوثها في
Iraqi Academic Scientific Journals و Google Scholar.

11/08/2026

QGFL-TEEN: An Intelligent Hybrid Protocol for Energy-Efficient and Adaptive Routing in Wireless Sensor Networks

Abstract
Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have emerged as a promising technology in modern wireless communication systems. These networks have been widely used in real-time applications that require reliable communication along with energy efficiency, which heightens the need for protocols that can provide both stable communication and reduced energy consumption. In essence, traditional hierarchical protocols, such as the threshold-sensitive energy-efficient sensor network (TEEN), have demonstrated effectiveness in lowering redundant transmissions. However, they often suffer limitations in adaptive energy management and the optimal selection of the cluster head (CH). Motivated by this fact, this paper proposes QGFL-TEEN. This new hybrid frame integrates reinforcement learning (RL), genetic algorithms (GAs), and fuzzy logic (FL) with the TEEN protocol to enhance energy efficiency, stability, and network lifespan. The obtained results have demonstrated that the proposed frame attains up to 87.55% improvement in network lifetime and 91.14% enhancement in stability compared to the standard TEEN protocol. Moreover, the framework maintains higher packet delivery rates and lower energy consumption across all simulation rounds, confirming its effectiveness for scalable and resilient WSN deployments.

, , , , (FL), , , ,
https://doi.org/10.33899/arej.v31i1.61840

04/08/2026

Discrete Markov Chain Modeling for Efficient Key Processing in Anonymous Networks

Abstract
Anonymous networks are designed for confidentiality, while simultaneously keeping the sender’s identity hidden from all nodes except the designated receiver. The decryption process requires the actual receiver to try out all possible keys stored in memory, thereby making computation very time-consuming, especially in noisy conditions where errors and hash collisions occur. This paper proposes a probabilistic algorithm to reduce the number of keys that must be processed, without compromising accuracy. The algorithm models the decryption process as a discrete Markov chain the Bernoulli formula in all its facets to calculate the probability of correct key detection and thereby determine an optimal stopping condition. Simulation results with 15 sources and an error probability of 0.15 exhibited up to a 14% reduction in the number of key trials required compared to brute-force search, with expected higher efficiencies for larger network sizes. This research contribution introduces a lightweight, scalable model that reduces computational cost, saves energy, and extends node lifetime. These findings stress the importance of providing a practical means for enhancing the performance of anonymous communication systems, especially while working under a resource-constrained environment such as the IoT and decentralized networks.

, , , , , , ,
https://doi.org/10.33899/arej.v31i1.61839

26/07/2026

Energy, Economic, and Environmental Performance Analysis of a Perforated-Air PV/T Solar Collector with Variable Airflow During Winter in Zakho/Iraq
Abstract
This study presents an experimental investigation of a perforated-air photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) solar collector operating under variable airflow conditions during winter in Zakho, Iraq. The system integrates a perforated absorber plate with controlled airflow to enhance heat transfer and energy utilization. Three mass flow rates (0.055, 0.098, and 0.154 kg/s) were tested on separate winter days and compared to a conventional PV system. The results showed that the PV/T system significantly improved thermal efficiency, reaching up to 79.7%, while maintaining electrical efficiency between 12.7–13%. The highest useful thermal energy output was achieved at 0.154 kg/s, driven by improved convective heat transfer and favorable solar conditions. Despite slightly lower electrical efficiency than the PV panel, the PV/T system provided a much higher total energy yield. Economic analysis revealed that the PV/T system achieved up to five times higher Net Present Value (NPV) and a payback period of 1.6 years, with a lower Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) of $0.16/kWh, compared to $0.1967/kWh for the PV system. Environmentally, the hybrid system reduced CO₂ emissions by over 68,000 kg over 25 years, approximately four times more than the PV system. The results confirm that the perforated-air PV/T system is a highly efficient and sustainable solution for cold-climate residential energy applications.
, , , ,
https://doi.org/10.33899/arej.v31i1.61838

21/07/2026

Thermal Performance Enhancement of Solar Air Heaters Using Multi-V-Shaped Perforated Ribs With Different Directions
Abstract
This experimental study investigates the thermal performance of three solar air heater (SAH) configurations: a conventional flat plate, a V-up perforated ribs absorber plate, and a V-down perforated ribs absorber plate. The studies were conducted in real outdoor conditions at the University of Zakho, Zakho, Iraq, on 15, 18, and 25 February 2025. Each SAH was tested at three different air mass flow rates: 0.00882 kg/s, 0.01323 kg/s, and 0.01764 kg/s. The findings demonstrated that the V-down SAH consistently outperformed the others in terms of daily thermal efficiency and heat gain. At the maximum flow rate (0.01764 kg/s), the V-down configuration achieved a maximum daily thermal efficiency of 84% and a peak useful heat transfer rate of 529 W. The V-up SAH followed with 77% efficiency and 492 W, while the flat plate SAH reached 69% efficiency and 470 W. The enhanced performance of the V-down design is attributed to improved turbulence and convective heat transfer induced by its downward-facing perforated ribs. These findings confirm the effectiveness of using V-shaped perforated ribs, particularly the V-down orientation, in enhancing the thermal performance of solar air heaters.
, , , ,
10.33899/arej.v31i1.61936

19/07/2026

The Impact of Accessibility on Walkability to Enhance Social Interaction in Mixed-Use Streets
Abstract
The design and quality of urban streets significantly influence accessibility, determining how easily pedestrians—particularly those with mobility challenges—can reach essential services, amenities, and social opportunities. While prior studies have established accessibility as a key factor in promoting walking, the relative importance of specific accessibility indicators remains unclear. There is also uncertainty about how much each of these factors actually influences people’s decisions to walk. Improving these accessibility factors not only makes walking easier but also enhances social interactions, as walkable streets encourage people to meet, engage, and spend time in public spaces. This study addresses the question: What are the most important accessibility indicators of walkability that influence social interaction in mixed-use streets? Identifying the main accessibility factors of walkability that affect social interaction in mixed-use streets is the objective of this paper. The aim of the study is to design a walkability model that explains how accessibility influences social interactions in mixed-use streets. The study distributed 400 Likert-scale questionnaires (1=strongly disagree to 5=strongly agree). It used SPSS (for statistical analysis) and Smart PLS (for structural equation modeling) to process and design the model. The analysis revealed strong model fit (GoF=0.69), emphasizing that perceived accessibility of walkability plays a crucial role in shaping social interaction. The study concluded that the indicators contributing to ease of walking such as street configuration, obstruction-free, sidewalk levels and condition, curb ramps, crosswalks, signage at night were among the most influential in making the street environment more encouraging for pedestrians.
, , ,
10.33899/arej.v31i1.61836

16/07/2026

Energy, Economic, and Environmental Benefits of Cooling Photovoltaic Module with L-Shaped Fins and Reflector in Zakho, Iraq

Abstract
Solar energy is a renewable resource; however, high operating temperatures reduce photovoltaic (PV) performance. This study examines passive cooling and reflective enhancements on PV systems in Zakho, Iraq, during winter. Experiments were conducted on February 24 and 27 using two modified PV designs. While in Scenario I, L-shaped aluminum fins were attached to a PV module and compared with a reference panel. Scenario II combined fins with an aluminum reflector to increase the amount of incident solar radiation. Results showed notable performance gains. In Scenario I, power output rose by 14.2%, with peak efficiency improving from 10% (reference) to 12%. Scenario II achieved a 17.5% increase in power, with efficiency reaching 16.5% compared to 14% for the benchmark. Temperature decreases of 15.3°C (Scenario I) and 13°C (Scenario II) confirmed the effectiveness of passive cooling. An examination of life cycle costs (LCC) indicated reduced energy expenditures: $0.053/kWh for the reference scenario, down to $0.048/kWh with fins, and further lowered to $0.044/kWh with fins combined with a reflector. The payback periods have been decreased to 6.5, 5.9, and 5.5 years for reference, fins, and combined fins with reflector systems, respectively. The environmental analysis revealed yearly CO₂ emission reductions of 4.62, 5.25, and 5.93 tCO₂/year for reference, fins, and combined fins with reflector systems, respectively. Overall, integrating cooling fins and reflectors significantly improved PV performance, reduced energy costs, and enhanced environmental sustainability. This approach offers a practical and low-cost strategy to boost solar energy utilization in regions with similar climatic conditions.
, , , ,
10.33899/arej.v31i1.61835

23/05/2026

Assessing the Dynamic Behavior of Step Footing Placed on the Surface of Sandy Soil
Abstract
Numerous factors, including soil type, moisture content, foundation type, and excitation intensity, have impacted how soil responds to excitation forces. An accumulation of underlining soil deformation caused by the machine's vibration may exceed the limit. An experimental investigation was conducted to evaluate the effect of machine-induced vibrations on four prototype footings positioned at the soil's surface. Among the four footing models, three were designed with stepped areas, while one had a uniform rectangular section. The stepped footings were constructed with varying bottom-to-top area ratios (A/A) of 1.0, 1.2, 1.5, and 2. Three operating frequencies (10, 40, and 70 Hz) were applied to each of the four footings. The soil used was sand with a medium relative density of 50%. Dynamic response data include vertical amplitudes (displacement, velocity, and acceleration), settlement, and pressures at various depths. Despite different in magnitudes, it was found that the stepped footings significantly reduced the machine-foundation system's pressure, settlement, and amplitude movements. For instance, the stepped footing with area ratio of (A2/A1=2.0) displayed the lowest dynamic response. The pressure decreased by an average of 14.5% when the area ration changes from (A2/A1=1.0) (A2/A1=2.0), while the total settlement, amplitude displacement and acceleration were reduced by about 30%, 42% and 54%, respectively. Further, compared to a uniform footing, stepped footing is more cost-effective with high-performance.
https://rengj.uomosul.edu.iq/index.php/rengj/article/view/53855

21/05/2026

Energy Management and Cost Reduction: A Predictive Approach to Monthly Electricity Billing in Mosul Residential Settings
Abstract
Efficient electrical power management is crucial for both suppliers and consumers, significantly affecting consumer budgets and national economies. In Iraq, residential electricity consumption constitutes 56% of the national demand, leaving households with unpredictable monthly bills due to the absence of real-time usage monitoring. This financial uncertainty worsens grid instability and hinders efficient energy management. This paper proposes a methodology for energy management by estimating monthly electricity bills. We propose a predictive billing system that estimates monthly costs by analyzing kWh meter readings at 6-hour intervals, aligned with Iraqs tiered pricing structure (10120 IQD/kWh). The readings were collected over 30 days from a household in Mosul (House-1). To simulate high-consumption households (House-2 and House-3), the dataset was subsequently expanded by generating statistically and mathematically modeled synthetic data based on House-1 readings. Five management strategies were tested, including dynamic reductions (210 kWh) triggered by tiered thresholds. This methodology not only provides an estimate but also offers suggestions to help reduce the total bill, ensuring it stays within a reasonable range. The implementation of the proposed methodology led to a decrease in electricity consumption between 6% and 23%, resulting in cost savings of 14% to 49% across three different household profiles. The tiered feedback approach (Scenario 4) achieved the highest monthly cost savings, with a 49% reduction for households consuming more than 4000 kWh per month. This approach empowers consumers to align usage with budgetary goals while alleviating grid stress. Future work will integrate IoT-based outage detection and mobile app deployment.
https://rengj.uomosul.edu.iq/index.php/rengj/article/view/53844

19/05/2026

Assessment and Statistical Analyses of Rutting, Cracking and Fatigue Resistance of Warm-Mix Asphalt
Abstract
Warm-mix asphalt (WMA) is produced at lower temperatures than hot-mix asphalt (HMA), suggesting reduced compaction efforts. This study aims to evaluate rutting, cracking, and fatigue resistance of WMA under three compaction efforts (CE: 35, 50, and 75 blows/face) using Kim and Semi-Circular Bending tests to measure deformation strength, fracture energy, flexibility index, and J-integral (fatigue parameter). A 40/50 pe*******on grade base binder was modified with 5% natural zeolite (NZ) and 5% synthetic zeolite (SZ) by mass to produce natural zeolite-warm mix asphalt (NZWMA) and synthetic zeolite-warm mix asphalt (SZWMA). Seventy-two Marshall-compacted samples underwent statistical analysis to determine optimal CE. Key finding can be listed as follows: NZWMA required 50 blows/face and SZWMA 75 blows/face to meet the minimum 3.2 MPa deformation strength (Kim test) and J-integral 0.5 (critical strain energy rate); NZWMA at 50 blows saved more time and fuel than SZWMA while satisfying performance criteria; Rutting, cracking, and fatigue resistance exhibited consistent trends with increasing CE for both mixes. The results demonstrate NZWMAs efficiency under moderate compaction, offering practical advantages in asphalt production by balancing performance and energy savings. This study provides insights into optimizing CE for WMA technologies, emphasizing NZWMAs potential for sustainable pavement applications
https://rengj.uomosul.edu.iq/index.php/rengj/article/view/53850

16/05/2026

Effect Of Sprinkler Riser Height And Cyclic Pressure Head Variation On Water Distribution Pattern For Grid Sprinkler Irrigation Systems

Abstract
Operating pressure is one of the most important factors in breaking up and dispersion of the water jet into droplets. In addition, the sprinkler riser helps calm, stabilize, and regulate the flow entering from the lateral pipe. The research aims to determine the effect of the sprinkler riser height and the variation of cyclic pressure head on the water distribution pattern for a single sprinkler and their interaction with the spacing and for rectangular and triangular arrangements of sprinklers. The results showed that the water distribution patterns for a single sprinkler operating under constant pressure head and under a cyclically varying pressure head are similar, and the largest differences didnt show a noticeable change in Christiansen's uniformity coefficient (UC). In addition, increasing riser height resulted in water distribution patterns of lower depths with increase in the wetted radius. Moreover, the largest increase in UC appeared in the triangular arrangement and in the lowest pressure head, and the average increase in UC was 8.65%. It was also noted that increasing the pressure head led to distribution pattern of greater depths near the sprinkler, while the pattern tends to stabilize after that. The overall increase in UC under all variables considered is 1.98%, and 70% of the UC values in the rectangular arrangement are greater than or equal to those in the triangular arrangement
https://rengj.uomosul.edu.iq/index.php/rengj/article/view/53843

Address

جامعة الموصل/كلية الهندسة
Mosul
41002

Website

https://jamh.uomosul.edu.iq/index.php/rengj

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Al-Rafidain Engineering Journal posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Want your business to be the top-listed Engineering Company in Mosul?