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- Title
- Assessment of Links between Sea Level Variations and Climate Variability and Change.
- Creator
- Schmidt, Alejandra R., Teegavarapu, Ramesh, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
A comprehensive study is conducted to evaluate global sea levels for trends and variations due to climate change and variability by using non-parametric methods. Individual and coupled effects of inter-annual ENSO, decadal PDO, multi-decadal AMO, and quasi-decadal NAO on sea levels are evaluated. Combined influences of different phases (cool or warm) of PDO, AMO, and NAO influences and ENSO are also evaluated. The results from this study showed that sea level at 60% of the sites is increasing...
Show moreA comprehensive study is conducted to evaluate global sea levels for trends and variations due to climate change and variability by using non-parametric methods. Individual and coupled effects of inter-annual ENSO, decadal PDO, multi-decadal AMO, and quasi-decadal NAO on sea levels are evaluated. Combined influences of different phases (cool or warm) of PDO, AMO, and NAO influences and ENSO are also evaluated. The results from this study showed that sea level at 60% of the sites is increasing with time with all four oscillations impacting global sea levels. AMO warm phase individually and PDO warm combined with La-Niña phase contribute to higher sea levels throughout the world. Trends and variations in sea levels are noted to be spatially non-uniform. Understanding and quantifying climate variability influenced variations in sea levels and assessment of long-term trends enables protection of coastal regions of the world from sea level rise.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005936
- Subject Headings
- Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University, Climatic changes., Sea level., Sea level rise, Global.
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Assessment of optimality of arterial signal timing plans under diurnal and day-to-day variations in traffic demand.
- Creator
- Ostojic, Marija, Stevanovic, Aleksandar, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Most U.S. urban traffic signal systems deploy multiple signal timing plans to account for daily variability of traffic demand (i.e. morning peak, midday, afternoon peak, off peak and night). Groups of signals (belonging to the one zone or section) along an urban arterial, usually operate in a coordinated manner. This essentially means that timing plans change at the same time for all the signals in the group, so as to facilitate vehicle progression of through a series of signals. Good traffic...
Show moreMost U.S. urban traffic signal systems deploy multiple signal timing plans to account for daily variability of traffic demand (i.e. morning peak, midday, afternoon peak, off peak and night). Groups of signals (belonging to the one zone or section) along an urban arterial, usually operate in a coordinated manner. This essentially means that timing plans change at the same time for all the signals in the group, so as to facilitate vehicle progression of through a series of signals. Good traffic signal timing practices assume a certain level of monitoring and maintenance in order to guarantee that they are efficient in servicing current traffic conditions.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004457, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004457
- Subject Headings
- Electronic traffic controls -- Evaluation, Roads -- Safety measures -- Evaluation, Signalized intersections, Traffic flow management, Traffic signs and signals -- Control systems -- Methodology, Transportation engineering -- Technological innovations
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Assessment of Changes in Precipitation Data Characteristics due to Infilling by Spatially Interpolated Estimates.
- Creator
- Hachmi, Mohammad, Teegavarapu, Ramesh, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Spatial and temporal interpolation methods are commonly used methods for estimating missing precipitation rain gauge data based on values recorded at neighboring gauges. However, these interpolation methods have not been comprehensively checked for their ability to preserve time series characteristics. Assessing the preservation of time series characteristics helps achieving a threshold criteria of length of gaps in a data set that is acceptable to be filled. This study evaluates the efficacy...
Show moreSpatial and temporal interpolation methods are commonly used methods for estimating missing precipitation rain gauge data based on values recorded at neighboring gauges. However, these interpolation methods have not been comprehensively checked for their ability to preserve time series characteristics. Assessing the preservation of time series characteristics helps achieving a threshold criteria of length of gaps in a data set that is acceptable to be filled. This study evaluates the efficacy of optimal weighting interpolation for estimation of missing data in preserving time series characteristics. Rain gauges in the state of Kentucky are used as a case study. Several model performance measures are also evaluated to validate the filling model; followed by time series characteristics to evaluate the accuracy of estimation and preservation of precipitation data characteristics. This study resulted in a definition of region-specific threshold of the maximum length of gaps allowed in a data set at five percent.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004783, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004783
- Subject Headings
- Precipitation (Meteorology), Spatial analysis (Statistics), Geographic information systems--Mathematical models., Climatic changes--Environmental aspects., Functions of real variables.
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Assessment of clilmate change impacts on streamflow trends using a water balance model.
- Creator
- Matthews, Kevin., College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Significant changes in climate and their impacts are now visible in various places around the globe and are expected to become more evident in the coming decades. For each increase in temperature, there are environmental and societal consequences. It has important implications for existing water resources systems as well as for future water resources planning and management. Water accounting (identifying, quantifying and reporting information of water flow in a system) is the first step...
Show moreSignificant changes in climate and their impacts are now visible in various places around the globe and are expected to become more evident in the coming decades. For each increase in temperature, there are environmental and societal consequences. It has important implications for existing water resources systems as well as for future water resources planning and management. Water accounting (identifying, quantifying and reporting information of water flow in a system) is the first step towards formulating productive and sustainable water management strategies in a region. Thus, water balance models could be an empowering tool for water resource managers to prepare for and mitigate the effects of climate change on their local hydrologic resources. This thesis offers an insight into how such a tool can be used to assess and predict future stream flow trends in an effort to mitigate or manage any potential effects.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3358599
- Subject Headings
- Climatic changes, Environmental aspects, Hydrology, Water resources development, Natural resources, Accounting
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Analysis of blast/explosion resistant reinforced concrete solid slab and T-Beam bridges.
- Creator
- Abdelahad, Firas A., Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
This study presents and illustrates a methodology to calculate the capacity of an existing reinforced concrete bridge under a non-conventional blast load due to low and intermediate pressures. ATBlast program is used to calculate the blast loads for known values of charge weight and stand off distance. An excel spreadsheet is generated to calculate ultimate resistance, equivalent elastic stiffness, equivalent elastic deflection, natural period of the beam, the maximum deflection, and the...
Show moreThis study presents and illustrates a methodology to calculate the capacity of an existing reinforced concrete bridge under a non-conventional blast load due to low and intermediate pressures. ATBlast program is used to calculate the blast loads for known values of charge weight and stand off distance. An excel spreadsheet is generated to calculate ultimate resistance, equivalent elastic stiffness, equivalent elastic deflection, natural period of the beam, the maximum deflection, and the maximum rotation in the support for a simple span solid slab and T-Beam bridges. The allowable rotation could be taken as to two degrees. Naval Facility Engineering Command (NAVFAC) approach was adopted, where the inputs were material properties, span length, and area of reinforcement. The use of the Fiber Reinforced Polymer for increasing the capacity of an existing bridge is also presented in this study. Parametric studies were carried out to evaluate the performance of the solid slab and T-Beam bridges under the assumed blast load.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/flaent/EN00154040/68_1/98p0132d.pdf, http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/58001
- Subject Headings
- Concrete beams, Vibration, Bridges, Concrete, Fatigue, Reinforced concrete construction, Bridges, Concrete, Design and construction
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Analysis of per capita water use patterns among communities with varying degrees of commercial activity.
- Creator
- Eustice, Robert J., Bloetscher, Frederick, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Water supply managers often look for easily applied metrics to determine where water use can be curtailed. Unfortunately, the one-size-fits-all mentality comes with a price of failing to fully grasp the consequences decision-making based on such metrics. One issue that water supply regulator like to use is per capita water use. Per capital water use is often used to show where there is “wasted” water use, such as excessive irrigation. However such a metric may not be truly applicable...
Show moreWater supply managers often look for easily applied metrics to determine where water use can be curtailed. Unfortunately, the one-size-fits-all mentality comes with a price of failing to fully grasp the consequences decision-making based on such metrics. One issue that water supply regulator like to use is per capita water use. Per capital water use is often used to show where there is “wasted” water use, such as excessive irrigation. However such a metric may not be truly applicable depending on other economic factors. A heavily industrial area may add to apparent per capital use, but actually is an economic development activity. The focus of this project is to look at various water utilities and their per capital usage with the intent of discerning whether or not a better metric could be developed that consider the economic development activities of the region and water use.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004366, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004366
- Subject Headings
- Water conservation, Water conservation projects, Water consumption -- Measurement, Water efficiency -- Measurement, Water use -- Measurement
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A Mathematical Model for Optimizing Mini-Hub Locations of Distribution Centers in Urban Areas.
- Creator
- Charisis, Anastasios, Kaisar, Evangelos I., Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Logistics play a vital role in the prosperity of today’s cities, but current urban logistics delivery practices have proven problematic and to be causing various negative effects in cities. This study proposes an alternative method for delivering cargo with the leasing of a network of logistics hubs within urban areas for designated daily time intervals and handcart last-mile deliveries. The objective of the study is the development of a mathematical programming model for identifying the...
Show moreLogistics play a vital role in the prosperity of today’s cities, but current urban logistics delivery practices have proven problematic and to be causing various negative effects in cities. This study proposes an alternative method for delivering cargo with the leasing of a network of logistics hubs within urban areas for designated daily time intervals and handcart last-mile deliveries. The objective of the study is the development of a mathematical programming model for identifying the optimal number and locations of hubs for serving demand with the minimum cost, as well as the optimal times during the day for leasing the facilities, while also allocating hubs to customers. The problem is effectively solved by applying a Lagrangian relaxation and subgradient optimization approach. Numerical examples and a sensitivity analysis provide evidence of the robustness of the model and its ability to be effectively applied to address real problems.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013129
- Subject Headings
- Logistics--Mathematical models, Logistics, Distribution centers, Urban areas, Lagrangian functions
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A Mathematical Modeling Approach Using Time Constraints: The Case of Economies of Scale and Sustainability in Intermodal Facilities.
- Creator
- Goulianou, Panagiota, Kaisar, Evangelos I., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Over the last thirty years, intermodal freight transportation has been a constantly expanding sector. The vast increase of freight volumes contributes to the increase of various issues in the freight corridors as well as the urban environment. The deterioration of congestion in the urban environment and the increase on freight movements on the highways have resulted in the increase of emissions. For this reason, new policies and regulations are put forth to address the environmental effects...
Show moreOver the last thirty years, intermodal freight transportation has been a constantly expanding sector. The vast increase of freight volumes contributes to the increase of various issues in the freight corridors as well as the urban environment. The deterioration of congestion in the urban environment and the increase on freight movements on the highways have resulted in the increase of emissions. For this reason, new policies and regulations are put forth to address the environmental effects of freight transportation. This study deals with the intermodal freight network design problem from the shipping company's perspective, aiming to simultaneously minimize emission levels and cost of freight transportation. We propose a mathematical model for optimizing the design of an intermodal freight network and the location of intermodal hubs between the origins and the destinations, under delivery time constraints. The goal is to identify the mode choice patterns considering transport cost and emissions, and the effects of new emission regulations on network costs. We consider a network with marine terminals as the origins, inland intermodal terminals as the hubs, and fulfillment centers as the destinations. Numerical experiments highlight that the proposed model can provide useful insights to the shipper.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2020
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013439
- Subject Headings
- Intermodal transportation, Containerization, Containerization--Mathematical models, Container ships--Environmental aspects, Economies of scale
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- CRITICAL EVALUATION OF LEACHATE CLOGGING POTENTIAL IN GRAVITY COLLECTION SYSTEMS AND MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS.
- Creator
- Shaha, Bishow Nath, Meeroff, Daniel E., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
-
Leachate clogging in the Leachate Collection System (LCS) due to chemical precipitations and biofilms produced by microbial activities is a common phenomenon in any Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) landfill. This study focuses on quantifying the factors that impact the micro-environment of leachate; and microbial activities that help the precipitates to form and attach to the LCS. It also evaluates the performance of operational changes that have been implemented or the potential alternatives and...
Show moreLeachate clogging in the Leachate Collection System (LCS) due to chemical precipitations and biofilms produced by microbial activities is a common phenomenon in any Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) landfill. This study focuses on quantifying the factors that impact the micro-environment of leachate; and microbial activities that help the precipitates to form and attach to the LCS. It also evaluates the performance of operational changes that have been implemented or the potential alternatives and recommends the possible measures to reduce the severity of clogging. A field scale side-by-side pipe network, and several laboratory setups were used in this study. Calcite is identified to be the predominant phase present in the precipitates using XRD/XRF analysis which, concur with the previous studies. Microbial growth and activities enhance the precipitation of CaCO3 in LCS. Clogging in LCS pipes can be controlled if not eliminated by continuous monitoring along with frequent cleaning with physiochemical processes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2020
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013493
- Subject Headings
- Leachate, Solid waste management, Sanitary landfills, Calcite, Leachate--Purification
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Biofilm Detection through the use of Factor Analysis and Principal Component Analysis.
- Creator
- Gallant, Richard, Bloetscher, Frederick, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Safe drinking water is paramount to a healthy society. Close to a hundred contaminants are regulated by the government. Utilities are using chloramines to disinfect water to reduce harmful byproducts that may present themselves with the use of chlorine alone. Using chlorine and ammonia to disinfect, ammonia oxidizing bacteria can present themselves in an unsuspecting utilities distribution network.
- Date Issued
- 2019
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013309
- Subject Headings
- Biofilms, Factor analysis, Principal components analysis, Drinking water--Analysis, Nitrification
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Blast/explosion resistant analysis of composite steel girder bridge system.
- Creator
- Zhou, Fang., College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
The design of bridge structures to resist explosive loads has become more of a concern to the engineering community. This thesis proposes a method to evaluate the effects of conventional blast loads on a two span continuous composite steel girder bridge system. The bridge design is based on AASHTO LRFD method. Resistance capacities of bridge deck and composite steel girder are calculated according to AASHTO specifications. Equivalent blast pressures on the bridge components are obtained....
Show moreThe design of bridge structures to resist explosive loads has become more of a concern to the engineering community. This thesis proposes a method to evaluate the effects of conventional blast loads on a two span continuous composite steel girder bridge system. The bridge design is based on AASHTO LRFD method. Resistance capacities of bridge deck and composite steel girder are calculated according to AASHTO specifications. Equivalent blast pressures on the bridge components are obtained. Response and performance of concrete deck, steel girders, and supporting piers are evaluated under typical blast loads. The blast induced force in the bridge components are computed in the static analyses for varying amounts of TNT. The blast effects in the supporting pier are determined using both static and dynamic analyses. Further research needs to be done in the dynamic analysis of the bridge system subjected to blast loads.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/227976
- Subject Headings
- Steel, Structural, Testing, Bridges, Design and construction, Structural dynamics
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Biogas Production from Organic Waste, Meat and FOG by Anaerobic Digestion and Ultimate Sludge Digestibility.
- Creator
- Sethi, Rohan, Meeroff, Daniel E., Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
The anaerobic biodegradability of food waste (FW), meat waste and FOG (fats, oils and greases) with municipal primary sewage sludge was assessed using a laboratory scale anaerobic digester and by ultimate sludge digestibility, at mesophilic conditions by varying the inoculum to feedstock ratio (1:2-1:10) and solids retention time (SRT). Preliminary analysis assessed the anaerobic digestion of food waste and meat at a biogas production over 30 days at 1000 mL and 1400 mL, respectively. The...
Show moreThe anaerobic biodegradability of food waste (FW), meat waste and FOG (fats, oils and greases) with municipal primary sewage sludge was assessed using a laboratory scale anaerobic digester and by ultimate sludge digestibility, at mesophilic conditions by varying the inoculum to feedstock ratio (1:2-1:10) and solids retention time (SRT). Preliminary analysis assessed the anaerobic digestion of food waste and meat at a biogas production over 30 days at 1000 mL and 1400 mL, respectively. The maximum methane yield was 0.18 m3/kg VS and 0.50 m3/kg VS for 1:10 in meat and FOG, respectively in 28 days with 56-61% volatile solids of destruction and first order methane generation rate of 0.15 d-1 for both meat and FOG. The optimal ratio for meat and FOG was determined to be beyond highest ratio tested (1:10), and longer SRT should be considered to investigate the impact of feedstock on methane yield. Preliminary modeling suggests that for one 1.74 MG digester, diverting just 0.6% of the food waste generated in one-third of Palm Beach County could produce enough methane to power 130-360 homes for one full month.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013032
- Subject Headings
- Biogas, Organic wastes, Methane, Food waste, Anaerobic digestion
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Cement stabilization of organic soils for controlling secondary compression behavior.
- Creator
- Ramirez, Juan., College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Western Palm Beach County, FL is characterized by thick deposits organic soils at shallow depths. Because of their high void ratio and compressibility, these soils undergo large primary consolidation followed by extended periods of secondary compression causing excessive premature structural distress. Although soil stabilization has been largely used with remarkable results in soft, expansive and non-organic soils, limited research and practice exist in the implementation with highly organic...
Show moreWestern Palm Beach County, FL is characterized by thick deposits organic soils at shallow depths. Because of their high void ratio and compressibility, these soils undergo large primary consolidation followed by extended periods of secondary compression causing excessive premature structural distress. Although soil stabilization has been largely used with remarkable results in soft, expansive and non-organic soils, limited research and practice exist in the implementation with highly organic soils. The main motivation of this research was to investigate the effects of cement stabilization on the compressibility behavior of organic rich soils, and develop mix design criteria for optimum cement contents necessary to induce the desired engineering behavior. This optimized mix design may provide guidelines for Deep Mixing Methods in organic soils.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/367760
- Subject Headings
- Soil consolidation, Measurement, Soils, Organic compound content, Soil remediation, Technological innovations, Concrete construction, Structural stability, Design
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Centrally prestressed fiber reinforced concrete columns.
- Creator
- Grijalba, Daniel A., College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
With the need to improve corrosion resistance in columns and piles, the innovative idea of Centrally Prestressed Fiber Reinforced Concrete (CPFRC) columns is a promising solution. The first step is to compare if the compressive strength of any mix is affected by the size, geometry, or even the inclusion of polyolefin fibers in a specimen. The results showed that the cylinder size of 4 in. x 8 in., which is the most common size used by the testing labs, has the highest compressive strength....
Show moreWith the need to improve corrosion resistance in columns and piles, the innovative idea of Centrally Prestressed Fiber Reinforced Concrete (CPFRC) columns is a promising solution. The first step is to compare if the compressive strength of any mix is affected by the size, geometry, or even the inclusion of polyolefin fibers in a specimen. The results showed that the cylinder size of 4 in. x 8 in., which is the most common size used by the testing labs, has the highest compressive strength. There was no sign on compressive strength improvement with the use of polyolefin fibers, except for reduction in cracking size and concrete spalling. The second step compared the ultimate strength, ductility characteristics and failure mode of CPFRC columns to conventional columns. CPFRC showed adequate axial and flexural resistance, in addition to ductile behavior similar to regular reinforced concrete columns.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3332253
- Subject Headings
- Prestressed concrete construction, Strength of materials, Composite reinforced concrete, Concrete, Chemical resistance
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- CALCULATION AND COMPARISON OF THE FLOOD RISK POTENTIAL DUE TO RAINFALL EVENTS AND SNOW MELT USING TECHNIQUES DEVELOPED FOR FLOOD RISK IN FLORIDA.
- Creator
- Weaver, Jared, Bloetscher, Frederick, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
- Abstract/Description
-
CASCADE 2001 is a multi-basin flood routing program used in areas of flat terrain. CASCADE was used for different situational elements including the Florida Keys, Broward County, and Pensacola. The goal for this screening tool was to create flood inundation watershed mapping for the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM). After showing the risks of flooding that could occur in Florida, the thought of how useful CASCADE can be in other environmental conditions. The Rocky Mountains...
Show moreCASCADE 2001 is a multi-basin flood routing program used in areas of flat terrain. CASCADE was used for different situational elements including the Florida Keys, Broward County, and Pensacola. The goal for this screening tool was to create flood inundation watershed mapping for the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM). After showing the risks of flooding that could occur in Florida, the thought of how useful CASCADE can be in other environmental conditions. The Rocky Mountains were selected to show the effect of flood inundation that can be mirrored in an opposite condition from prior experimentation. We chose to test this program in an area with mountainous terrain like the region of Grand Lake, Colorado. Rainfall, in collaboration with groundwater tables, ground soil storage and topography have the most effect on the CASCADE modeling program. Effects that were not used in the Florida models but added for Grand Lake included snowmelt. Snowmelt in the Rocky Mountains affects the flow of the Colorado River causing excess discharge that flows throughout the valleys and into Shadow Mountain Lake. WINSRM was a recommended model that could be used to simulate snowmelt during different months of Colorado’s spring season. The effects of snowmelt and rainfall flooding can be compared in relation to each other.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2021
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013774
- Subject Headings
- Floods--Risk assessment, Rain and rainfall, Runoff, Flood routing
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Catastrophic event planning and response for urban areas through dynamic traffic assignment and departure time-slot allocation.
- Creator
- Degnan, William C., College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Catastrophic event emergency planning has emerged as one of the most important operations management areas. Much of the successes of a response plan rely on the ability to maintain an operating transportation infrastructure. In recent years urban areas have become susceptible to biological terrorist attacks due to their size and demographics. To mitigate the devastating effects of an attack, a comprehensive catastrophic event response plan is devised. The characteristics of the disease ...
Show moreCatastrophic event emergency planning has emerged as one of the most important operations management areas. Much of the successes of a response plan rely on the ability to maintain an operating transportation infrastructure. In recent years urban areas have become susceptible to biological terrorist attacks due to their size and demographics. To mitigate the devastating effects of an attack, a comprehensive catastrophic event response plan is devised. The characteristics of the disease (dormant periods, signs/symptoms), daily traffic operations and trip distributions, patient-choice hospital modeling and emergency center corridor optimization are all elements of an effective response plan. Simulation and optimization modeling of this plan becomes a faster-than-real-time tool in replicating urban area degradation. Therefore, allowing planners to identify "worst case scenarios" within the network and implement Dynamic Traffic Assignment (DTA) techniques and a non-linear departure time slot allocation mathematical model ensuring infected populations receive treatment and/or vaccinations efficiently.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3359332
- Subject Headings
- Emergency management, Bioterrorism, Government policy, Evacuation of civilians, Planning
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Evaluation of future design rainfall extremes and characteristics using multiple-model and multiple-scenario climate change models.
- Creator
- Dezmain, Celyn, Teegavarapu, Ramesh, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
Climate models are common tools for developing design standards in the hydrologic field; however, these models contain uncertainties in multi-model and scenario selections. Along with these uncertainties, biases can be attached to the models. Such biases and uncertainties can present difficulties in predicting future extremes. These hydrologic extremes are believed to be non-stationary in character. Only in the recent past have model users come to terms that the current hydrologic designs are...
Show moreClimate models are common tools for developing design standards in the hydrologic field; however, these models contain uncertainties in multi-model and scenario selections. Along with these uncertainties, biases can be attached to the models. Such biases and uncertainties can present difficulties in predicting future extremes. These hydrologic extremes are believed to be non-stationary in character. Only in the recent past have model users come to terms that the current hydrologic designs are no longer relevant due to their assumption of stationarity. This study describes a systematic method of selecting a best fit model in relationship to location and time, along with the use of that best fit model for evaluation of future extremes. Rain gage stations throughout Florida are used to collect daily precipitation data used in extreme precipitation and quantitative indices. Through these indices conclusions are made on model selection and future extremes, as they relate to hydrologic designs.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA0004016
- Subject Headings
- Climatic changes -- Environmental aspects, Climatic extremes, Hydrologic models, Percipitation (Meteorology) -- Measurement
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Estimating Pedestrian Impact on Coordination of Urban Corridors.
- Creator
- Chowdhury, Sharmin-E-Shams, Stevanovic, Aleksandar, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
-
At most of the US signal, pedestrian walk timings run in concurrence with relevant vehicular traffic signal phases which means that major-street coordinated operations can be interrupted by a pedestrian call. Such interruption may increase delays and stops for major traffic flows. An alternative to this design is to increase the cycle length and embed pedestrian timings within the ring-barrier structure of the prevailing coordination plan. Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages....
Show moreAt most of the US signal, pedestrian walk timings run in concurrence with relevant vehicular traffic signal phases which means that major-street coordinated operations can be interrupted by a pedestrian call. Such interruption may increase delays and stops for major traffic flows. An alternative to this design is to increase the cycle length and embed pedestrian timings within the ring-barrier structure of the prevailing coordination plan. Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages. This study attempts a novel approach to address this situation by a comprehensive experimental evaluation of traffic performance under various pedestrian signal timing strategies. Findings show that either abovementioned approach works well for very low traffic demands. When the traffic demand increases findings cannot be generalized as they differ for major coordinated movements versus overall network performance. While coordinated movements prefer no interruption of the coordinated operations, the overall network performance is better in the other case.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013128
- Subject Headings
- Transportation corridors, Pedestrians, Urban traffic, Traffic estimation
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Experimental evaluation of cement stucco surfacing material (CSSM) removal for reducing particulates in air.
- Creator
- Cowan, David, Meeroff, Daniel E., Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
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Every year millions of construction workers are exposed to dust in levels that create a hazard to them (Fundukian, 2011). Their environment is contaminated by activities such as cutting, chipping, grinding and sanding building materials. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) refers to this general collection of building materials debris and fine particulates as nuisance dust. Some of the particles in nuisance dust possess properties that make them especially hazardous, such...
Show moreEvery year millions of construction workers are exposed to dust in levels that create a hazard to them (Fundukian, 2011). Their environment is contaminated by activities such as cutting, chipping, grinding and sanding building materials. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) refers to this general collection of building materials debris and fine particulates as nuisance dust. Some of the particles in nuisance dust possess properties that make them especially hazardous, such as their shape or specific gravity. It has been found by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) that inhalation of quantities of silica dust above the permissible exposure limit (15.0 mg/m3) causes a deterioration of the outside lining of the lung.This research seeks to limit this exposure by a pretreatment process using acid application and then absorbed moisture content that reduces airborne particulate during the removal of cement stucco surfacing materials. Successful pretreatment would allow removal of CSSM from substrates such that the release of airborne particulates does not exceed the permissible exposure limits (PEL) found in the 29 CFR-Table Z-3 for mining applications (15-mg/m3).
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004438, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004438
- Subject Headings
- Air -- Pollution -- United States -- Measurement, Air quality management, Concrete -- Deterioration, Environmental health, Particles -- Environmental aspects
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Experimental evaluation of the durability of fly ash-based geopolymer concrete in the marine environment.
- Creator
- Edouard, Jean-Baptiste., College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering
- Abstract/Description
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The construction industry is increasingly turning to the use of environmentally friendly materials in order to meet the sustainable aspect required by modern infrastructures. Consequently, for the last two decades, the expansion of this concept, and the increasing global warming have raised concerns on the extensive use of Portland cement due to the high amount of carbon dioxide gas associated with its production. The development of geopolymer concretes offers promising signs for a change in...
Show moreThe construction industry is increasingly turning to the use of environmentally friendly materials in order to meet the sustainable aspect required by modern infrastructures. Consequently, for the last two decades, the expansion of this concept, and the increasing global warming have raised concerns on the extensive use of Portland cement due to the high amount of carbon dioxide gas associated with its production. The development of geopolymer concretes offers promising signs for a change in the way of producing concrete. However, to seriously consider geopolymer binders as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement, the durability of this new material should be evaluated in any comparative analysis. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the durability characteristics of low calcium fly ash-based geopolymer concretes subjected to the marine environment, compared to ordinary Portland cement concrete with similar exposure. To achieve this goal, 8 molar geopolymer, 14 molar geopolymer and ordinary Portland cement concrete mixes were prepared and tested for exposure in seawater. Compressive strengths in the range of 2900 to 8700 psi (20-60 MPa) were obtained. The corrosion resistance performance of steel-reinforced concrete beams, made of these mixes, was also studied, using an accelerated electrochemical method, with submergence in salt water. The test results indicated that the geopolymer concrete showed excellent resistance to chloride attack, with longer time to corrosion cracking, compared to ordinary Portland cement concrete.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3170960
- Subject Headings
- Reinforced concrete, Corrosion, Testing, Reinforced concrete construction, Concrete, Mixing, Quality control, Environmental chemistry, Industrial applications, Polymer composites
- Format
- Document (PDF)