DCU Expo 2024 - Final Year Projects

71 123. An Investigation into the Artificial Rapid Patination of Brass Alloys This project investigates the artificial rapid patination of brass alloys using different oxidisers and acids. A chemical was then formulated andmanufactured internally to achieve an “antique brass” colour. Computer-aided software then determined the best formula based on colour, uniformity and brightness. Student Programme Mechanical andManufacturing Engineering (Year 4) Project Area AdditiveManufacturing, Mechanical Design andManufacture Project Technology ImageJ Student Name(s) Jonathan Daly Email jonathan.daly48@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Prof Dermot Brabazon 124. Investigating Feasible Retrofit Plans Specific to Irish Residential Buildings: ATechno-Economic Study This project investigates the feasibility of retrofitting homes in Ireland within the context of government initiatives aimed at promoting retrofitting to reduce carbon emissions in the residential sector. The technical aspect of the project analyses the benefits of different retrofit upgrades for homes, assessing their impact on energy efficiency, CO 2 emissions, and comfort levels using Energy Plus, a simulation software highly accredited in the energy modelling industry. Economic factors such as ROI (Return on Investment) and NPV (Net Present Value) are considered for each upgrade. The analysis includes specific scenarios to assess the feasibility of each upgrade and provides insights into the general feasibility of the retrofitting process in Ireland. Student Programme Mechanical andManufacturing Engineering (Year 4) Project Area Energy Conservation, Renewable Energy Technology, Simulation, Statistical Analysis, Economic Analysis Project Technology Excel/VB, DesignBuilder/Energy Plus Student Name(s) Vincent Fleming Email vincent.fleming2@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Reihaneh Aghamolaei 125. Metal Oxide Sensors Calibration for Acetone Sensing froman Artificially Simulated ControlledHuman Breathing Rig Acetone detection in exhaled breath is a crucial aspect when it comes to non-invasive diagnosis of diabetes for patients. The project establishes a calibration procedure for acetone-sensingmetal oxide gas sensors. The calibration system ensures the sensors, made with variations in concentrations of TitaniumOxide (TiO 2 ) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO), are functioning correctly by accurately detecting acetone. SolidWorks was used to design the rig, and an Arduino board was used to collect the data from the sensor to provide accurate calibration graphs from the sensors. The project highlights how acetone detection holds importance in multiple industries, especially in the healthcare field, where there is a demand for innovative approaches. Student Programme Biomedical Engineering (Year 5) Project Area Arduino, Biomedical Engineering, Sensor Data, Sensor Technology Project Technology C/C++, Solidworks Student Name(s) GeslynMary Lantin Email geslyn.lantin3@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr InamUl Ahad