A Regional Investigation of Inverse Distance Weighting Particulate Matter Prediction within Kirkuk City, Iraq: A Regional Investigation of Inverse Distance Weighting Particulate Matter Prediction within Kirkuk City, Iraq

It is well known that air polluted with particulate matter (PM) has a negative impact on human health. It is important to monitor and evaluate air quality by revealing the nature of the air and identifying the areas affected by particles. The methods and tools used for this purpose vary. This study aims to predict air quality based on PM data collected using an air pollution measuring device to measure the values of particulate matter (PM) in different sizes. The Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) approach was used within the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis tools. The tool was applied to measurements collected in Kirkuk city's study area for 2022. Besides, testing PM2.5 data has been collected in 2025 for the validation process. The results showed that there are higher rates of PM than the acceptable standards, which therefore cause health effects. The accuracy value of the prediction data was also calculated for each of the PM1, PM2.5, PM5, and PM10 concentrations. Model validation accuracy results were 80%, 89%, 84%, and 72%, respectively. While cross validation resulted in 82%. The results indicated a good fit for the prediction determined by the analysis. Moreover, the health risks have also been detected from the spatial distribution of each pollutant. Based on our analysis and results, good, moderate, and unhealthy air was detected in the study area. Keywords: Particulate Matter, IDW, GIS, air quality, health impac

Drinking Water Quality Assessment in Selected Areas of Rawalpindi by Physico-Chemical and Biological Parameters

: In this study drinking water quality of some densely populated areas of Rawalpindi was analysed. The main sources of water in the area are water filtration plants and bore tap waters. As water demand has exceeded the supply, many locals have installed bores in order to meet their water needs. The purpose of this study was to determine the quality of drinking water, and to determine whether it is related to gastrointestinal diseases. For this study, water samples were collected from filtration plants, and tap water. Both physicochemical and microbiological parameters play role in determining water quality. Hence, the pH, EC, Salts, TDS, Turbidity, Total Alkalinity, Total Hardness, Total Chloride, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Carbonates, Arsenic, and microbiological parameters like salmonella, and shigella, E. coli and total coliform were analysed by standard procedures. The results showed all the parameters were within the permissible limits, except for EC and TDS, indicating that ions are present in greater amounts in water samples. In case of microbiological parameters, growth of salmonella and shigella, as well as E. coli was found, and permissible limit for total coliforms exceeded in few samples suggesting that water from these sources is contaminated and not fit for use. In comparison, tap water samples were found more contaminated with bacteria as compared to samples from filter plants. Keywords: Drinking water quality, physico-chemical parameters, gastrointestinal diseases, microbiological analysis, arsenic

Drinking Water Insecurity in the Coastal Parts of Mirsharai, Sonagazi and Companiganj Areas of Bangladesh: Water Quality Analysis : Drinking Water Insecurity in the Coastal Parts of Mirsharai, Sonagazi and Companiganj Areas of Bangladesh: Water Quality Analysis

The people of the coastal parts of Bangladesh are insecure for safe drinking water. Present study is an attempt to delineate the water quality in the coastal parts of Mirsharai, Sonagazi and Companiganj areas. Various parameters of water quality such as free hydrogen (pH), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), oxidation reduction potential (ORP), salinity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), acidity, alkalinity, total hardness and nitrate, phosphate, sulphate, chloride, iron, manganese, cobalt, nickel, arsenic and chromium were determined through field work, available data and laboratory analysis. The results indicate that the arsenic concentration and electrical conductivity in shallow aquifers exceed WHO and Bangladesh standards limit. Additionally, chloride, total hardness, alkalinity, and lead exceed the WHO and Bangladesh standards in both shallow and deep aquifers. In many cases, the turbidity of surface water both inside and outside the coastal embankments also exceeds these limits. The lead, chloride and manganese contents, DO and BOD in the Feni River also exceed the BSTI limits. The analysis reveals that the deep aquifers are free from arsenic, while the shallow aquifers are significantly contaminated. Although, the deep aquifers need precaution for salinity, alkalinity, total hardness and lead contents. Correlation matrix analysis confirms that EC and TDS serve as reliable indicators of salinity levels in both shallow and deep aquifers. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further supports this, showing that EC, TDS, and salinity are influenced by the saline water intrusion in these aquifers. Additionally, pollutants in both shallow and deep aquifers are positively associated with EC, TDS and salinity. Keywords: Drinking water insecurity, water quality analysis, coastal areas, Bangladesh

Assessment of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Gas Poisoning in Coal Mining: Assessment of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Gas Poisoning in Coal Mining

Mine fires are an extremely important problem in underground coal mining in terms of both loss of life, loss of reserves and production stoppages. For this reason, it is necessary to keep the underground under constant control with CO measurements, to constantly monitor it, and to activate a warning system at critical levels. In this study, fires and related CO gas poisoning were evaluated together with the events that occurred, and it was emphasized to what extent they caused mass deaths at a catastrophic level. Keywords: Coal mining, mine fires, CO poisoning, monitoring, warning

Impact of Seawater Intrusion on Coastal Aquifers of Karachi, Pakistan: Impact of Seawater Intrusion on Coastal Aquifers of Karachi, Pakistan

Groundwater is an important resource for domestic and agricultural use. In several countries coastal regions are facing groundwater salinization due to seawater intrusion. The coastal aquifers of Karachi are continuously at risk of salinization. The deeper aquifers in the study area are mainly hosted in Nari (Oligocene) and Gaj (Miocene) formations, while shallow aquifers are situated in Holocene and Pleistocene unconsolidated deposits. In order to evaluate the impact of seawater intrusion on groundwater quality of Karachi region, 25 groundwater samples were collected from different wells (ranging from 12 to 46 m) of Chanesar Gotth, Karachi, Sindh for determining their physical and chemical characteristics. The analytical results of physical (turbidity, pH, TDS, EC, hardness, odor, and chemical (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride, nitrates, bicarbonate, sulfate, zinc, nickle, cobalt, copper and iron) constituents showed that EC and TDS range between1828- 5190 μS/cm, and from 1550 to 4920 mg/L, respectively. The results indicate that groundwater EC and TDS are above the guidelines set by WHO and did not satisfy the requirement for various purposes like domestic and agricultural use. Data revealed that groundwater is dominated by sodium and chloride, and dominant water types in the area are NaCl>NaHCO3>CaCl. Seemingly, low Na/Cl ratio suggests that groundwater is severely affected by seawater intrusion. High Na/Cl ratio in few water samples reflect impact of infiltration of polluted surface water. In addition Gibbs plot showed evolution of groundwater from seawater intrusion to evaporative process. Durov diagram revealed the mixing of fresh water with seawater. Furthermore, sodium absorption ratio (SAR) and Wilcox diagrams showed that water is highly saline and is unsuitable for irrigation purpose. The natural cause of seawater intrusion is sea-level rise, which has significantly impacted the groundwater salinization dynamics in the study area. Keywords: Seawater intrusion, groundwater salinity, hydro-geochemistry, Karachi

Risk Assessment of a Ceramic Factory Using the Fine-Kinney Method : Risk Assessment of a Ceramic Factory Using the Fine-Kinney Method

With increasing population in the world and in Türkiye, along with the growing demand for energy and raw materials, mechanization in production lines has become inevitable. As in every sector where machine and human activities are synchronized, serious occupational accidents can occur in the ceramic industry, if necessary precautions are not taken. Today, many professional companies conduct various studies to identify occupational hazards in a timely manner and implement acute preventive measures. The common aspect of these studies is the classification and identification of risks and the elimination of hazardous risks using academically recognized methods. In this study, a risk analysis was conducted using the Fine-Kinney method in a ceramic manufacturing plant to ensure a healthy and safe working environment by performing environmental measurements to prevent occupational accidents. Based on the risk scores obtained, potential hazard points were identified. The results indicate that a total of 150 risks were detected. The most significant hazards across the factory include dust (risk score: 4000) and fire (risk score: 6000), both posing high risks. Additionally, the noise risk score in the granule preparation and raw material sections (risk score: 4000) was found to be at an intolerable level. The identified risk levels within the facility have been reduced to acceptable levels through corrective actions. Keywords: Fine-Kinney method, occupational health and safety, risk assessment, ceramic industry

Human Health Risk Assessment of Physicochemical and Selected Trace Metal Contents of Borehole Water from Zebediela Sub-Region, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical public health concern, particularly in rural communities. This study assessed borehole water quality from eight villages in Zebediela sub-region, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Twenty (20) borehole samples were collected and analyzed for physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and salinity) and the concentration of selected trace metals (Boron, Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Selenium and Molybdenum). The physicochemical water quality of some areas exceeded the WHO regulatory guidelines and trace metals such as Mn, Se Mo, Cu and Mg exceeded the threshold limit associated with aesthetic and long-term health exposure. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that the hydrochemical parameters were enriched by natural geochemical processes including ion exchange, dissolution of silicate minerals from limestone and agricultural activities. The health risk assessment revealed that non-carcinogenic risks were higher for children than for adults, with long-term cumulative exposure identified as the key contributor to these risks. Se and Mo were the major contributors to non-carcinogenic risks in both age groups. Therefore, targeted monitoring and management of Se and Mo concentrations in groundwater are strongly recommended to reduce potential public health impacts. Keywords: Borehole water, trace metals, physico-chemical properties, health risk assessment, Zebediela

Groundwater Quality Assessment Using Hydrochemical and Multivariate Approaches in Coastal Taluka Shaheed Fazil Rahu, District Badin, Sindh, Pakistan

Pakistan ranks 14th among the most water-stressed countries globally, with groundwater (GW)serving as the primary water source for both rural and urban populations. However, GW contamination is agrowing concern, driven by excessive agrochemical use, improper wastewater disposal, and toxic elements.Coastal Sindh, particularly District Badin, faces severe water scarcity and deteriorating GW quality, exacerbatedby seawater intrusion and the absence of proper water storage and supply infrastructure. This study assesses GWquality in Taluka Shaheed Fazil Rahu (SFR), District Badin, using hydrochemical and multivariate statisticalapproaches to evaluate contamination sources and freshwater availability. A total of 105 GW samples wereacquired from communal bore wells across three union councils and analyzed for physical, chemical, andmicrobiological parameters. Results showed that 65.71% of samples exceeded turbidity limits, 64.76% had highEC, and 58.1% surpassed TDS thresholds. Microbiological analysis detected total coliforms in 29.52% and E. coliin 12.38%, indicating fecal contamination. Contaminants followed the order: Cl⁻ (56.19%) > HCO₃⁻ (54.29%) >Na⁺ (37.14%) > SO₄²⁻ (31.43%) > K⁺ (25.71%) > Mg²⁺ (24.76%) > Ca²⁺ (22.86%) > F⁻ (14.29%) > As (5.71%) >NO₃⁻ (1.90%). Multivariate analysis identified salinity (EC, TDS), bicarbonate, chloride, and sodium as primaryinfluences on GW quality. WQI classification showed only 7.62% of samples as excellent, while most werecategorized as poor, with UC Tarai (38.46%) having the highest proportion. The findings highlight critical waterquality concerns and threats to public health, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring, water treatment,disinfection, and sustainable utilization of resources to ensure safe drinking water. Keywords: Coastal Sindh, groundwater quality, hydrochemical assessment, multivariate analysis, public healthrisk, water contaminatio

Evaluation of the Early Cambrian Khewra Sandstone by Using Well Log Data, Potwar Plateau, Upper Indus Basin, Pakistan

This study presents a petrophysical analysis aimed at evaluating the reservoir characteristics of the Khewra Sandstone in the Saba-1 well, located in the Potwar Plateau, Upper Indus Basin, Pakistan. The study area lies in the southeastern part of the Potwar Plateau. The Early Cambrian Khewra Sandstone is extensively developed and widely distributed across the Upper Indus Basin of Pakistan. The thickness of the Khewra Sandstone in the Saba-1 well ranges from 2526 to 2654 m. Based on variations in petrophysical properties, the reservoir section of the Khewra Sandstone is subdivided into three distinct zones: Sb1, Sb2, and Sb3. Among these, Sb1 is primarily composed of sandstone and exhibits favorable reservoir potential for hydrocarbons, as indicated by relatively high effective porosity (13%) and hydrocarbon saturation (59.8%). Sb2 includes sandstone with minor shale and has moderate reservoir potential for hydrocarbons, as reflected by low effective porosity (10%) and hydrocarbon saturation (58%). Sb3 is composed of shale with minor sandstone and has poor reservoir potential due to its poor effective porosity (2.50%) and hydrocarbon saturation (40%), respectively. The prospective reservoir intervals are found in the upper and middle reservoir zones, and are recommended for future exploration and development. Overall, this study highlights the significance of integrating petrophysical analysis for reservoir characterization and provides valuable insight for future hydrocarbon exploration in the Potwar Plateau and adjoining areas of the Upper Indus Basin. Keywords: Early Cambrian, Khewra Sandstone, Potwar Plateau, petrophysical analysis, hydrocarbon potential

Simulation of a Pilot-Scale Plant to Produce Biodiesel from Waste Cooking Oil: Simulation of a Pilot-Scale Plant to Produce Biodiesel from Waste Cooking Oil

The increasing demand for alternative fuels and the environmental concerns surrounding fossil fuels have increased interest in biodiesel as a biodegradable and renewable fuel. This study focuses on the simulation of a pilot-scale biodiesel production plant using waste cooking oil (WCO) as the primary feedstock. The process was modeled using Aspen Plus software including the crucial stages of the process and production process simulated by two step reactions. The property method selection and reaction kinetics were implemented to ensure realistic and industrially relevant simulation results. The simulated process was optimized for conversion efficiency, product quality, and energy utilization. The simulated process produced 84.38% and 10.5% by mass of biodiesel and glycerol, respectively, while the excess methanol is collected and charged back into the reactor. The method also yields glycerol, a valuable by-product that is utilized as a raw ingredient in numerous process industries. The experimental yields of biodiesel and glycerol via mass production were 89.74% and 10.26%, respectively. The biodiesel produced through this route meets ASTM standards, confirming its suitability as an alternative fuel. The use of WCO not only adds value to a commonly discarded waste but also aligns with the goals of waste minimization and circular economy. This work provides a scalable and environmentally conscious framework for biodiesel production, demonstrating the practicality of integrating simulation-based design into real-world renewable energy systems. Keywords: Biodiesel, transesterification, simulation, waste cooking oil, alternative fuel