Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Volume 2011 Issue 1

Abstract Fischer-Tropsch synthetic paraffinic kerosines (FT-SPKs), such as Gas-to- Liquids (GTL) Kerosine, are now accepted as suitable blend components for Jet fuel production, via ASTM D7566. This sets limitations on distillation profiles for the final fuel and neat SPK, and the cycloparaffin content of the neat SPK. SPKs, from FT and other production routes, can be envisaged that would fall outside these limits yet produce p Read More

Abstract Increasing oil prices, strict environmental regulations and lack of sufficient growth in renewable energy sector have led to renewed interest in Fischer- Tropsch technology. Improved understanding of reaction mechanisms and development of detailed kinetic models for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) would facilitate better design and optimization of all FTS reactor configurations. In this work, detailed kinetic mo Read More

Abstract Plastics, which are basically polymer materials, are now an integral part of our daily lives: packaging, transport, textile, Hi-technology… Total Petrochemicals produces and develops useful lightweight and durable plastics that play a key role in the sustainable development of our world, making our lives easier, cleaner, safer and more enjoyable. These products include polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene but also si Read More

Abstract Membrane distillation differs from other membrane technologies in that the driving force for desalination is the difference in vapor pressure of water across the membrane, rather than total pressure. The membranes for MD are hydrophobic, which allows water vapor (but not liquid water) to pass. The vapor pressure gradient is created by heating the source water thereby elevating its vapor pressure. The majo Read More

Abstract In the recent years, development of alternative jet fuels is gaining importance owing to the demand for diversifying fuel and cleaner combustion. Liquid fuels have high volumetric energy content and ease of handling therefore preferred by the aviation industry. However, liquid fuels add additional complications in combustion process in thrust generation due to the needed preparatory steps of atomization and v Read More

Abstract Cobalt (Co) turnover frequency (TOF) has been reported to be independent of Co dispersion and support type. However, wide discrepancies in Co TOF values exist in the literature. Differences in catalyst preparation, process conditions, and characterization technique could be major factors that may account for the discrepancies. Therefore, a more accurate assessment of Co turnover frequency (TOF) is nee Read More

Abstract The current technology for CO2 reduction is CO2 capture and storage (CCS). An alternative technology is to capture CO2 and convert it to chemicals by thermal catalysis. The technology is not appropriate to low concentration of CO2 (<1%), such as CO2 in air except it has to be driven by thermal energy mainly produced by fossil fuel combustion. The solar energy driven CO2 conversion is an only technology without ext Read More

Abstract Qatar has high increasing electrical energy demand, from less than 50MW 1954 to 5,250MW in 2010. Electrical energy generating was only 1,500MW in 1995, 4,535MW in 2009, and soon will be 9,000MW. The expected additional capacity needed by 2016 is 5,500MW with high average emission CO2 of 32 tons/capita/year. Qatar has strong solar energy potential, (2070–2250)kWH/m2yr, which could takes place t Read More

Abstract The world is running out of energy, thus energy preservation is of paramount importance. Using current technology, ethylene is purified from petroleum feed stocks using the very energy intensive cryogenic distillation method. However, a purification procedure based on the redox properties of nickel bis-dithiolene complexes has been theoretically studied, in order to design a more convenient route to ethylene purif Read More

Abstract Miniaturization and increase in performance of electronic devices, resulted in an increase of energy density loads generated. In recent times, micro-scale cooling devices such as microchannel heat sinks have evolved as a plausible solution to the above heat transfer challenge. Nanofluids emerged as a good candidate in improving the cooling performance of micro cooling systems. Nanofluids are colloidal suspe Read More

Abstract I. Introduction Photovoltaic (PV) energy generation has been one of the most active research areas in the past decades, because it is essentially inexhaustible and environmental friendly with respect to the conventional energy sources. However, nowadays the higher initial installation cost, lower efficiency and reliability of the PV system still block its widespread application. To overcome these problems, our Read More

Abstract This paper highlights the recent work carried out at Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) in the development of novel synthetic fuels geared towards the aviation industry's utilization. The research activities implemented involve a unique multi-disciplinary collaboration between academia and industry, which was facilitated by QF through funding provided by the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and Roll Read More

Abstract Natural gas and oil processing, among many other applications in the chemical industry, depends on accurate predictions of the thermodynamic and transport properties for their accurate and reliable design. Especially in the energy sector, in which the flow rates of process streams are large and equipment is big, improper design can be costly, both in terms of investment and operating costs. Equations of st Read More

Abstract Many developed and developing economies are seeking to mitigate future climate change risks by developing strategies to reduce carbon emissions and the use of fossil fuels. Industrial energy use efficiency can be significantly enhanced by better energy recovery and integration promises significant potential to reduce emissions at low cost. These approaches are seen as crucial enablers of sustainable solutions in Read More

Abstract To face new hydrocarbon production metering systems and back allocation challenges, Total E&P Qatar and its Research Center (TRC-Q), located in the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), test novel approaches to improve current production metering system in the Al-Khalij field. This field is operated under a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with Qatar Petroleum (QP). A field pilot, which involves three pl Read More

Abstract There have been a number of studies regarding the efficiency of state-of-the-art thermal (Multi-Effect Distillation, MED), power driven (sea water reverse osmosis, SWRO) and hybrid (MED/SWRO) desalination systems. The comparisons between desalination technologies can be made on a number of critical parameters such as (i) cost of produced water, (ii) energy efficiency, (iii) environmental impact, (iv) reliability and (v) Read More

Abstract The estimated sulphur output from Qatar is around 4 Mtpa by 2012, primarily from gas processing operations(Sulphur magazine, March/April 2009). Shell is using novel technologies to utilize sulphur in various applications such as concrete (Shell Thiocrete*), asphalt (Shell Thiopave*) and fertilizers (Shell Thiogro*). The sulphur utilization programme in Qatar Shell Research and Technology Centre is part of a Read More

Abstract Background: Laser - Ultrasound is a new non-contact technique used to detect the defects in the hot surfaces like hot billets etc. Determination of corrosion in the plates, using this non-contact technique seemed a promising research effort. Objectives: In this work, an inspection system has been presented that uses Laser-Ultrasound (LU) technique for Nondestructive testing (NDT) of metallic structures Read More

Abstract To adequately predict reliability and optimize the time-to-maintenance for complex system design and reliability problems, this research develops a new model for complex systems, which are subject to performance degradation and multiple dependent failure modes. In particular, the hazard rate corresponding to each failure mode depends both on time and system state. The system state stochastically degrades o Read More

Abstract Depleting oil reserves, environmental pressure, as well as abundant reserves of coal, natural gas and biomass, have all contributed to a revived interest in Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) technology for producing ultra-clean, virtually sulfurfree, transportation fuels and chemicals. F-T technology involves conversion of synthesis gas (i.e., a mixture of H2 and CO) to a wide spectrum of hydrocarbons. In this study, the kinetics of the Read More

Abstract Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) Engines hold promises of being the next generation of internal combustion engines due to their ability to produce high thermal efficiencies, in addition to low nitric oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). HCCI combustion is achieved through the auto-ignition of a compressed homogeneous fuel-air mixture, thus making it a “fusion” between spark-ignition and compres Read More

Abstract Qatar is one of the largest producers of polymers in the Middle East, with a total annual turnover of $3.5 billion. The annual consumption of industrial and domestic polymers in the region generates significant amount of plastic waste in Qatar and in Gulf Corporation Countries (GCC). Recently, recycling of plastics has become an optimum waste management solution due to the efficiency of incorporating the plastic wa Read More

Abstract Qatar has experienced great change in its infrastructure, continuous upgrading of its major industrial cities, of its network of roads and highways and major construction and development along its coastline in particular the eastern coastline. These activities can all have an impact on the marine life and terrestrial wildlife, vegetation and floristic composition. One strip of coastline on the north-eastern section of Qatar r Read More

Abstract Nanotechnology is regarded as the next great scientific/industrial revolution due to the possibility of designing nanostructured materials that possess novel electronic, optical, magnetic, and catalytic properties. Nanomaterials could potentially be applied in pollution control, catalysis, water remediation, clean energy. Nanocatalysis is a phenomenon of significant research and important practical applications in a variety Read More

Abstract Barchan dunes in Qatar are restricted to the southeastern region of the country. They are currently a disappearing natural habitat due to the northwesterly Al Shamal winds, which are scouring the landscape and spreading desertification, as they pass. This research aims to understand whether the synergy between the physical transport of dust, moisture retention and microbial growth beneath the dune surface, could b Read More

Abstract The debate around carbon emission reduction seems to be hinging on capture and storage despite limited information about suitable sites and associated risks. It is unfortunate that alternatives to underground storage have not been discussed and disseminated for public opinion. This presentation aims at demystifying the broader picture on carbon management and the associated issues. Given the current lack of prog Read More

Abstract Clean air is an essential requirement to protect human health and the ecosystem. Achieving acceptable air quality requires the monitoring of ambient air quality, the setting of standards by the Ministry of Environment (MoE), and the implementation of control technologies. Air quality is a national priority for Qatar. The Qatar Energy and Environment Research Institute (QEERI) and TOTAL Research Center-Qatar, with their Read More

Abstract A limestone-plateau of 11,400 sq. km, Qatar continues to import approximately 90% of its food. By establishing a position of foreign dependence, Qatar's food security is at risk due to fluctuating prices (as experienced in 2008) and potential disruptions in supply. The total arable land in the GCC is in the order of 1.7%, resulting in an industry that only accounts for 1–4% of total revenue (0.1% in Qatar). As such, Qa Read More

Abstract Compared with conventional diesel refining process, GTL diesel offers significant environmental advantages such as less carbon emissions and improvement of air quality. However, the GTL technology often requires intensive energy and resources input. This paper applies Life cycle assessment (LCA) method to quantify the environmental impacts of gas-to-liquid fuel processes. LCA is a tool for the analysis of environ Read More

Abstract Amidoximes are an important class of organic compounds featuring a fused amide and oxime functionality and their use as starting materials for the synthesis of valuable heterocyclics and related intermediates enabled wide applications in novel pharmaceuticals, antitumor agents, antimalarial agents, nitric oxide synthase (NOS) substrates, enhanced textile materials, synthetic polymers, and chelating resins. Read More

Abstract This paper presents the results of an experimental work and life cycle analysis of reinforced mortar samples retrofitted with natural, and virgin and recycled polymers. The objectives of this study were to investigate the behavior of retrofitted concretes experimentally, and to compare the defined fiber reinforced concrete samples from environmental point of view using life cycle analysis. The mixtures of reinforced con Read More

Abstract Due to exponential growth of population and consumption of natural resources at an even faster pace, the impact of human behavior on the natural environment is becoming readily apparent. Resources are becoming less abundant, space is becoming more limited, and pollution of air, water, and land are beginning to have a direct impact on the inhabitants of the planet. This paper presents the findings of the study Read More

Abstract A new class of treatment processes called Advanced Reduction Processes (ARPs) has been developed and employed for destroying persistent organic contaminants in wastewater. ARPs combine reducing reagents with activating methods to produce highly reactive reducing free radicals. These ARPs have the potential to effectively destroy a wide range of oxidized contaminants such as chlorinated organics, perch Read More

Abstract CO2 is one of the byproducts of natural gas production in Qatar. High rate of natural gas production in Qatar has led to significant amounts of CO2 production. Release of CO2 into the atmosphere may be harmful from the global warming standpoint. Recent increase in CO2 concentration in atmosphere due to burning of fossil fuels and deforestation may be one of the main causes for acceleration in global w Read More

Abstract Background: The impact of heat stress alone on immune function is complex in nature; however, it appears a core temperature within the range of 37–39±C has little impact on neutrophil, lymphocyte and natural killer cell function. However, during passive heating where core temperature increases outside of this range there is a proliferation in leukocytes and cytokines with the magnitude dependent upon the Read More

Abstract We aim to develop an energy-efficient, low-cost desalination technology for creating new, affordable water sources from brackish waters. Since Qatar has extremely limited rechargeable water sources, technologies facilitating safe use of impaired and unconventional water sources are needed. Capacitive deionization (CDI) technology can meet the unique, logistical and economic needs for inland desalination. CDI techno Read More

Abstract While much has been made of sustainable living, green architecture and home design, the vast majority of green home technologies and related environmental innovations have been developed and tested in countries that do not possess the harsh climate found in Qatar. Systems and equipment designed and tested in the UK, for example, would not have been exposed to the heat, humidity and dust commonly found h Read More

Abstract Resource distribution among and within habitats affects the abundance, richness and composition of communities. Yet, the role of resource distribution on species interactions is rarely studied. Generalist predators have the ability to survive extreme conditions by using a variety of foods that allows the population to grow during times of low food availability. Most lizard species are generalist predators, including th Read More

Abstract Thermal desalination process is proven to be robust for large scale installation and meet specific water quality requirement, but it needs high energy cost with serious environmental concerns related to discharge of brine. On the other hand, membrane processes have started gaining market acceptance due to improvement in membrane chemistry, efficient pre-treatment and smaller foot print, but still face many chall Read More

Abstract B. thuringiensis is a gram-positive bacterium which produces, during sporulation, crystalline inclusions containing one or more delta-endotoxins. The latter are selectively toxic against a wide variety of insects, including important pests. Formulations based on B. thuringiensis have been used safely in developed countries as bioinsecticides for agriculture, forestry and disease vector control. This kind of bioinsecticide Read More