AUS Engineering College And SNOC Team Up For Sustainable Research Initiatives

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) College of Engineering (CEN) has recently embarked on a significant collaboration with the Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC), focusing on research projects that cater to market demands with an emphasis on sustainability. This partnership is set to fund six pivotal projects within CEN, harnessing the expertise of faculty members across six research clusters, notably in energy, water, sustainable environment, and material and manufacturing sectors.

Among the funded initiatives is a project dedicated to Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) and the development of hydrogen infrastructure. Led by Dr. Mostafa Shaaban and Dr. Akmal Abdelfatah, in collaboration with a colleague from South Valley University, this research aims to foster sustainable transportation in the UAE. It focuses on promoting the adoption of low- or zero-emission vehicles, examining the scalability of hydrogen infrastructure, consumer attitudes towards FCEVs, and the economic viability of their widespread use.

Another innovative project delves into the challenges associated with repurposing existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport and storage. Spearheaded by Dr. Maen Al-Khader and Dr. Mohammad Hamdan, the study seeks to understand the behavior of hydrogen-natural gas mixtures within pipelines. The goal is to mitigate hydrogen leaks, enhance flow stability, prevent separation and fluctuations, and reduce the costs linked to hydrogen transport.

Dr. Maruf Mortula and Dr. Sameer Al-Asheh are at the forefront of developing a sustainable wastewater treatment technology aimed at addressing heavy-metal contamination from petroleum operations. Their approach utilizes seashell and date palm waste as treatment materials, promoting sustainable practices and local waste material reuse.

In an effort to streamline contractor selection for oil and gas projects, Dr. Sameh El-Sayegh is creating a decision-making system powered by artificial intelligence. This system evaluates contractors' prequalification and sustainability potential, aiding organizations in aligning with environmental responsibilities and fostering sustainable development.

The integrity of pipes within the petroleum industry is vital for ensuring safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency. To this end, one project focuses on employing ultrasonic testing techniques for monitoring pipe wall thickness, while another investigates microwave non-destructive testing methods. These initiatives aim to accurately gauge pipe wall thickness and detect defects such as cracks and corrosion, thereby guaranteeing the safe conveyance of oil and gas.

Overall, this collaboration between AUS CEN and SNOC is poised to tackle real-world challenges by promoting sustainability and involving both researchers and students in meaningful research endeavors. The funded projects span various domains including FCEVs, hydrogen infrastructure, wastewater treatment, contractor selection processes, and pipe inspection techniques, showcasing a comprehensive approach to addressing current market demands through innovative solutions.

With inputs from WAM