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E-Port​folio Faris Ali Hamood ​​​​Al-Towayti




Name

Faris Ali Hamood Al-Towayti

Programme

PhD in Civil ​Engineering

University

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS

Year

2023 - Present

Academic Background

· B. Eng. (Civil), Sana'a University in Yemen, 2012

· M.Sc. (Civil), Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 2018

Professional Experience

· Civil Engineer, Yemen Family Care Association (YFCA) in Yemen, 2013 - 2015

Thesis Title

Hydrodynamic characteristics of a semi-circular breakwater system for wave protection of mangrove rehabilitation sites

Supervisor

Ts. Dr. Teh Hee Min, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS

Field Supervisor

Ts. Dr. Teh Hee Min, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS

Abstract

Coastal vegetation plays a crucial role as a natural barrier against destructive forces, including waves and coastal erosion. However, in the aftermath of the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, mangrove rehabilitation efforts by the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) encountered significant challenges due to wave and sediment erosion. In pursuit​ of more effective wave defense structures, geotubes were initially explored but were found to be vulnerable and short-lived. This research introduces an alternative solution in the form of a semi-circular breakwater with a 0.6-meter radius to safeguard vulnerable coastlines. The study aims to investigate the impact of tidal variations on the hydraulic characteristics and dynamic loadings of four semi-circular breakwater models under both random and regular wave conditions, employing a combination of physical modeling and numerical simulations. These four models encompass the semi-circular breakwater, the semi-circular breakwater with a cover, the semi-circular breakwater with a small crown, and the semi-circular breakwater with a large crown. Various water depths (ranging from 0.4 to 1.0 meters) and wave periods (ranging from 0.8 to 2.5 seconds with 0.1-second intervals) are systematically varied to comprehensively analyze the characteristics of these breakwaters. Through meticulously designed experiments and numerical simulations utilizing Flow-3D, this research provides valuable insights into the behavior of the semi-circular breakwater models under different wave conditions and tidal fluctuations. Consequently, it offers guidelines for the geometric design of semi-circular breakwaters with a 0.6-meter radius, furnishing practical tools to streamline the design process. The significance of this project lies in optimizing wave properties and addressing tidal effects for a wide range of coastal applications. Key stakeholders, including FRIM and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), stand to benefit significantly from the outcomes, facilitating their efforts to protect and rehabilitate vulnerable coastal areas. Beyond national boundaries, this research carries a global impact, benefiting countries with coastal regions and enhancing coastal protection and management strategies. By enhancing the durability and effectiveness of coastal defense structures against both random and regular waves, this research contributes substantially to coastal resilience and the sustainability of mangrove ecosystems. It ensures long-term protection against destructive wave forces while preserving coastal biodiversity.

PhD Journey (Arrange your PhD activities in chronological order, provide some photo and evidence as well as a short write-up (50 words) for each activity).

Date

Milestones & Activities

Photos & Evidence

Short Description

13 March 2019

Programme registration

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On ​March 13, 2019, I embarked on my Ph.D. journey by officially registering for the program, signifying the beginning of my academic exploration in the field of coastal research. This significant milestone represented my unwavering dedication to furthering my education and delving into the intricacies of coastal ecosystems.

26 Feb 2020

Research Proposal Defence


I successfully defended my Civil Engineering research proposal, a pivotal step that demonstrates my dedication and academic advancement in the field of coastal research.

01-Apr-2020

Confirmation of Co-Supervisor

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I have secured co-supervisor confirmation, a crucial milestone that affirms the support and guidance I will receive in my research on the hydrodynamic characteristics of semi-circular breakwaters.

2020 - 2023

MARE Summer School


I have actively retained my membership in the Marine Coastal and Delta Sustainability for Southeast Asia (MARE) program, which is part of the Erasmus+ Project. My involvement has included active participation in workshops and contributing to collaborative research initiatives.

25-26 AUG 2021

Participation in "Assessment of Coastal Environments" course


This experience has deepened my understanding of coastal environments, providing me with essential insights that are vital for the effective protection and management of coastal areas.

March 16-17, 2022

Best Paper Award at CSDY 2022 conference


I was honored to receive the Best Paper Award for my paper titled "Pollution of Water from Urban, Agricultural, and Industrial Effluent: A Review" at the Conference of Science and Development in Yemen (CAST 2022).

August 15-28, 2022

COME: Coastal and Marine Sustainability Enacted Summer School 2022


I have successfully completed the COME: Coastal and Marine Sustainability Enacted Summer School 2022 at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS & Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This experience has significantly expanded my knowledge in coastal and marine sustainability, a critical area for the preservation of coastal ecosystems and habitats.

October 2022

ICWR Conference Presentation


I had the privilege of collaboratively presenting "Numerical Simulations of Wave Diffraction Around a Low-Crested Semicircular Breakwater" at ICWR 2022, making a meaningful contribution to the progress of coastal defense research.

December 13-14, 2022

Presenter at the 9th ICETIA 2022 conference


I was honored to be recognized as a presenter at the 9th ICETIA conference, where I shared valuable insights and research findings, contributing to the enriching academic discourse within the field of engineering.

7th June 2023

Participation in the Pitching Competition

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I actively participated in a pitching competition, where I showcased innovation and expertise, two crucial qualities essential for shaping sustainable solutions to address coastal and marine challenges.

19th May 2023

New Patent Application in Malaysia No. PI2023002979

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I have submitted a new patent application in Malaysia (No. PI2023002979) under the title "A CAISSON BREAKWATER." This application underscores my commitment to innovation and dedication to advancing coastal protection measures in Malaysia.

How do MARE programmes contribute to your PhD journey?

The MARE (Marine Coastal and Delta Sustainability for Southeast Asia) program has greatly enhanced my PhD journey. Participating in this program under the Erasmus+ Project has provided me with a profound platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and exposure to diverse perspectives on marine sustainability. The workshops and research initiatives within MARE have imparted invaluable insights and methodologies that are fundamental to my coastal research. Engaging with experts and fellow researchers has broadened my understanding, significantly enhancing the depth and applicability of my PhD work. Moreover, this program has facilitated the establishment of a professional network, further reinforcing my commitment to sustainable marine and coastal development.

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