Welcome to the AI Research Centre at the College of Engineering, National University, where the pursuit of innovation and pioneering research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is our driving force. Under the distinguished leadership of Dr. Ali Bimani, Vice-Chancellor of NUST, our dynamic team of 13 members, headed by Dr. K. Suresh Manic, comprises researchers, doctors, and scientists with diverse backgrounds spanning engineering, pharmacy, and medicine. Together, we are actively shaping the future of AI through collaboration and innovation. Through a global network of esteemed partnerships, including Torrens University, Australia, and Shiraz University, Iran, alongside collaborations with AI researchers in India, Norway, Australia, Pakistan, China, Iran, and the UK (Glasgow Caledonian University), we foster a vibrant exchange of ideas that transcends borders, propelling our research to international significance. Our dedication to advancing AI is evident through the successful completion of TRC-funded projects, valued at a total of 51,000 Omani Rials, and ongoing projects worth 43,000 Omani Rials. Beyond research, we’re making tangible contributions to the field with the publication of two Indian patents and the grant of one Australian and one German patent, underscoring our commitment to transforming innovative ideas into actionable solutions. Our knowledge dissemination efforts shine through more than 120 publications, sharing our insights and discoveries with the global scientific community.
Intelligent condition monitoring, maintenance and reliability research lab has been developed, with the aim of enhancing research activities in condition monitoring by applying modern techniques like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Thing (IoT), Virtual Instrumentation, etc. In the research lab, there are many facilities such as Machine fault simulator, Centrifugal fan belt drive setup, SKF shaft alignment Tool, Tri-axis accelerometer, Thermal cameras, RicoVib-3-axis accelerometer, NI data acquisition system, LabVIEW software, etc. Since AI is being increasingly utilized in condition monitoring to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness in the prediction of conditions of machinery and equipment, the research lab has facilities to apply AI algorithms to analyze real-time data which are received from various equipment such as pumps, compressors, turbines, pipelines and special machines. By monitoring continuously, AI will provide early warnings of equipment issues, which will allow for predictive maintenance. Seven research projects have been completed under this research lab, and the overall research grant amounts to US$ 200 thousand. The research lab has facilities to conduct research activities and consultancy work for various industries by applying AI technologies in maintenance and reliability engineering.
The Center of Excellence in Environmental Science & Technology, situated within the esteemed College of Engineering of the University, is a hub for cutting-edge research and consultancy services in the field of environmental science. Our centre is dedicated to advancing knowledge and expertise in various critical areas, including desalination and wastewater treatment, renewable energy technology and energy optimization, atmospheric and climatological studies, sustainable development and circular economy
Our Waste to Energy Laboratory stands as a testament to our commitment to sustainable practices. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the laboratory analyzes complex organic matter, employs bioprocess engineering technology, and devises solutions to convert waste into energy. Various waste types, including agricultural waste, sludges, and glass waste, undergo meticulous treatment to yield renewable energy solutions. Key equipment in the Waste to Energy Laboratory includes a Capacity Furnace, Digital Flame Photometer, Microprocessor Signal Beam Visible, Centrifuge, Micro Centrifuge, Centrifuge FC5706, Microprocessor Spectrophotometer, Wastewater Treatment Photometer, pH Meter and Conductivity Meter, Digital Ultrasonic Cleaner, Biomedical Freezer, Thermostatic Cabinet, Volume Double Walled Reactor, Lab Scale Bioreactor, and Volumetric Gas Flow Meter (Ritter).
Our Solar Water Research & Nanotechnology Laboratory is equipped with sophisticated analytical instruments to test for organic and inorganic pollutants, heavy metals, crystal structure, chemical composition and microorganisms. The centre boasts cutting-edge equipment, including X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometer (ICPE), Total Organic Carbon Analyzer (TOC), Potentiostat / Electrochemical Workstation for Corrosion test, BOD Incubator, UV Spectrophotometer, Digital turbidity meter, Fluorimeter, Ultra-Sonic Reactor, Nano centrifuge, and Water Analysis Kit etc. Additionally, the College of Engineering houses advanced equipment such as a Profometer (Rebar Corrosion-PDT), Universal Testing Machine (UTM), Digital Rebound Hammer NDT, Concrete Permeability Tester, Hach Multi-parameter Analyzer, and Breakdown Voltage Tester for oil analysis and characterization.
This facility is developed under the Block Funding Scheme in the RG project (Call-2021), MOHERI, and from support of the National University of Science and Technology, Sultanate of Oman. The new facility consists of a Loading Frame with 500 kN Capacity (Vertical Loading) and 100 kN Capacity (Horizontal Loading) with all accessories. The lab has built up excellent facilities and expertise for carrying out R&D in the field of structural engineering, covering analysis, design, and testing of model and porotype structures as well as structural components. The lab has developed many cutting-edge technologies for the construction industry and also offers various services to public and private sector organizations.
