CPG

Dr. Murtada Al-Jawad

Tel: +966 (013) 860-​2688

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 1256

Dr. Murtada Al-Jawad

Associate Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Al Jawad is an Associate Professor in the Petroleum Engineering Department at KFUPM. He has actively participated in research projects on reactive transport, geomechanics, and sustainability. Since joining KFUPM in 2018, Dr. Al Jawad has been a member of several internally and externally funded projects. He led the development of a concentration in unconventional hydrocarbon resources. Also, he established a fully equipped, state-of-the-art lab to study and evaluate hydraulic fractures. Dr. Al Jawad is an active SPE member, as he served as a committee member and session chair in MEOS, IPTC, IHFTC, and other related workshops and symposiums. 

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., in Petroleum Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2018
  • M.S., in Petroleum Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2014
  • B.S., in Chemical Engineering, KFUPM University, 2011

Research Interests

  • Reactive transport
  • Geomechanics
  • Sustainability
  • Productivity enhancement

Selected Publications

  • Samarkin, Y., Amao, A., Aljawad, M. S.*,  et al. (2023). Conductivity Enhancement of Fractured Carbonates through High-Temperature Diammonium Hydrogen Phosphate Consolidation: A Preliminary Study. SPE Journal, 1-17.
  • Al-Darweesh, J., Aljawad, M. S.*, Al-Yousif, et al. (2022). The Impact of Green Chelating Agent and Corrosion Inhibitor on Foam Rheology and Stability at High Temperature, Pressure, and Salinity. SPE Journal, 1-14.
  • Mustafa, A., Alzaki, T., Aljawad, M. S.*, et al. (2022). Impact of acid wormhole on the mechanical properties of chalk, limestone, and dolomite: Experimental and modeling studies. Energy Reports, 8, 605-616.
  • Samarkin, Y., Amao, A., Aljawad, M. S.*, et al. (2022). Hardness Enhancement of Carbonate Rocks by Formation of Smithsonite and Fluorite. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 55(2), 1001-1012.
  • Kadafur, I., BinGhanim, A., Aljawad, M. S., et al, (2022). Rheological study of CO2 foamed chelating stimulation fluids under harsh reservoir conditions. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 208, 109201.
  • Aljawad, M. S.*, Aboluhom, H., Schwalbert, M. P., et al. (2021). Temperature impact on linear and radial wormhole propagation in limestone, dolomite, and mixed mineralogy. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 93, 104031.
  • Aljawad, M. S. *, Schwalbert, M. P., Mahmoud, M., & Sultan, A. (2020). Impacts of natural fractures on acid fracture design: A modeling study. Energy Reports, 6, 1073-1082.

Awards & Honors

  • ARMA Applied Research Award, 2022
  • Early Career Research Award, KFUPM, 2022
  • Prince Mohammad bin Fahd reward for Acadmeic excellence, 2011
Tel: +966 (013) 860 5439

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 2155

Dr. Zaka Emad

Associate Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Mining Science & Engineering Program

Dr. Zaka Emad, a distinguished expert in Mining Engineering, joined the College of Petroleum Engineering and Geosciences (CPG) at KFUPM in November 2024, bringing a wealth of expertise and passion for innovation in the field. Before this, he spent a decade shaping minds at UET Lahore, focusing on underground mine design, rock mechanics, and rock fragmentation.

His impressive postdoctoral research at Creighton Mine in Sudbury, Canada, explored numerical modeling of destress blasting, while his Ph.D. work delved into the dynamic performance of cemented rockfill under blast-induced vibrations. With over 17 years of teaching and research experience, Dr. Emad is a pioneer in underground mining, excavation techniques, rock mechanics, mine safety, and numerical modeling. His commitment to advancing knowledge and solving complex challenges makes him a vital asset to the CPG and the broader mining community.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., in Mining Engineering, McGill University, 2014
  • M.S., in Mining Engineering, UET. Pakistan, 2010
  • B.S., in Mining Engineering, UET. Pakistan, 2007

Research Interests

  • Underground Mining and Excavation
  • Rock Mechanics
  • Rock Fragmentation
  • Mine Safety

Selected Publications

  • Majeed, Y., Sani, K.M., Emad, M.Z. (2024). Estimating Pillar Strength for Rock Salt Mines of the Salt Range Pakistan using Statistical and Artificial Neural Network Modellling Techniques. Journal of Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42461-024-01037-8 (Q4, IF:1.5)
  • Majeed, Y., Emad, M.Z., Abu-Bakar, M.Z., and Ayatullah. (2024). Prediction of Rock Fragmentation in Bench Blasting Operations Based on Multi Parameters—A Case Study. Journal of Mining Science. Vol. 60, No. 1, pp. 74–86. https://doi.org/10.1134/S1062739124010095 (Q4, IF: 0.7)
  • Abbas, N., Li, K.G., Emad, M.Z., and Khan, A. (2024). Quantifying uncertainty in rock mass properties: Implications for GSI, RMi, and RMR assessments. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 124, no. 5, pp. 284–295. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/2599/2024, (Q2, IF: 0.9)
  • Abbas, N., Li, K., Emad, M.Z., Fissha, Y., Ali, M., Ghribi, W., Gamil, Y., Ikeda, H., (2024). Enhancing tunnel stability in the Himalayas: Empirical design support through numerical modelling. J. Eng. 2024, e12369. https://doi.org/10.1049/tje2.12369 (Q4, IF: 0.7)
  • Khan, N.M.; Ma L; Emad, M. Z.; Feroze, T.; Gao, G.; Alarifi, S.S; Sun, L.; Hussain, S.; Wang, H. (2024). Predicting Sandstone Brittleness under Varying Water Conditions Using Infrared Radiation and Computational Techniques. Water, vol. 16, 143. https://doi.org/10.3390/w16010143, (Q2, IF: 3.4)
  • Raza, M.A., Raza S., Khan M.U., Emad M.Z., Jalil, K., and Saki, S.A. (2023), Cost modelling for dimension stone quarry operations. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 123, no. 8, pp. 521–525. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411- 9717/1578/2023 (Q2, IF: 0.9)
  • Abbas, N., Li, KG., Emad, M.Z. et al. Empirical Evaluation of RMR, GSI, and Q for Underground Excavations. Iran J Sci Technol Trans Civ Eng (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40996-023-01275-8 (Q2, IF: 1.7)
  • Sohail, G.M., Yasin, Q., Radewan, A.E., Emad, M.Z., (2023) Estimating hardness and Young’s modulus of shale using drill cuttings: Implications for hydraulic fracturing in shale gas reservoir development. Journal of Gas Science and Engineering, vol. 118. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgsce.2023.205116
  • Majeed, Y., Abbas, N., and Emad, M.Z. (2023), Stability evaluation of room-and-pillar rock salt mines by using a flat jack technique – A case study. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 123, no. 6, pp. 287–298. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/1872/2023 (Q2, IF: 0.64)
  • Jan, M.S., Hussain, S., Zahra, R.E., Emad, M.Z., Khan N.M., Cao, K., Rehman, Z.U., Alarifi, S.S., Raza, S., Sherin, S., Salman, M., (2023). Appraisal of Different Artificial Intelligence Techniques for the Prediction of Marble Strength. Sustainability, Vol 15, No, 11, pp 8835. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118835 (IF 3.889)

Extended Publications (+)

Papers published in refereed Journals

  • Shahzad, M., Majeed, Y., Emad, M.Z., Arshad, S.M., Goraya, R., Akram, M., (2023), Assessing mechanical characteristics of typical support system being used in thin seam coal mining of Pakistan. Int. J. Mining and Mineral Engineering, Vol. 13, No. 4, 2022
  • Raza, M.A., Hassan, A., Khan, M.U., Emad, M.Z., and Saki, S.A. (2023), A critical comparison of interpolation techniques for digital terrain modelling in mining. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 123, no. 2, pp. 53–62. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/2271/2023. (Q2, IF: 0.64)
  • Khan, M.U., M. U. Tahir, Z. Emad, M. A. Raza, S. A. Saki. (2023). Investigating Strength Anisotropy of Plain and Steel Fiber Reinforced Shotcrete. Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration https://doi.org/10.1007/s42461-022-00715-9 (Q2, IF: 1.695)
  • Xu, Y.; Khan, N.M.; Rehman, H.; Hussain, S.; Khan, R.M.A.; Emad, M.Z.; Cao, K.; Bin Mohd Hashim, M.H.; Alarifi, S.S.; Cui, R.; Li, X. (2022) Research on Leakage Detection at the Joints of Diaphragm Walls of Foundation Pits Based on Ground Penetrating Radar. Sustainability 2023, 15, 506. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010506 (Q2, IF: 1.695)
  • Hussain, S. N. M. Khan, Z. Emad, A. M. Naji, K. Cao, Q. Gao, Z. U. Rehman, S. Raza, R. Cui,
    M. Salman, S. S. Alarifi. (2022) An appropriate model for the prediction of rock mass deformation modulus among various artificial intelligence models. Sustainability by MDPI, 14(22), 15225; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215225, (Q1, IF: 3.889)
  • Saleem Y.; Z. Emad; A. Ali; S. Naz. (2022) Synergetic Effect of Different Plant Growth Regulators on Micropropagation of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) by Callogenesis. Agriculture by MDPI, (Agriculture technology). 12, 1812. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12111812 (Q1, IF: 3.408)
  • Khan N. M.; K. Cao; Z. Emad; S. Hussain; H. U. Rehman; K. S. Shah; F. U. Rehman; A. Muhammad (2022). Development of Predictive Models for Determination of the Extent of Damage in Granite Caused by Thermal Treatment and Cooling Conditions Using Artificial Intelligence. Mathematics by MDPI, Special Issue Mathematical Problems in Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 10, 2883. https://doi.org/10.3390/math10162883 (Q1, IF: 2.592)
  • Khan N. M.; K. Cao; Q. Yuan; M. H. B. M. Hashim; H. Rehman; S. Hussain; Z. Emad; B. Ullah; K. S. Shah; S. Khan (2022). Application of artificial neural networks and multivariate statistics to predict Uniaxial Compressive Strength and Static Elasticity using physical properties under different thermal conditions. Sustainability 2022, 14(16), 9901; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14169901 (Q1, IF: 3.889)
  • Emad M.Z., Majeed, and G. Rehman. (2022), Rock splitting techniques for reducing undesirable cracks and fissures in rock salt blocks. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, vol. 122, no. 3, pp. 147-154. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/1780/2022 . (Q4, IF: 0.68)
  • Emad M. Z., M. U. Khan, S. A. Saki, M. A. Raza, and M. U. Tahir. (2022) Correlations Between Mechanical and Index Properties of Sandstone from the Central Salt Range. Journal of Mining Science, 2021, Vol. 57, No. 6, pp. 901–910. © Pleiades Publishing, Ltd., 2021. Published in Fiziko-Tekhnicheskie Problemy Razrabotki Poleznykh Iskopaemykh, 2021, No. 6, pp. 27–37. DOI: 10.1134/S106273912106003X (Q4, IF: 0.456)
  • Rehman A., Z. Emad, M.U. Khan. (2021) Improving the environmental and economic aspects of blasting in surface mining by using stemming plugs. The Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy VOLUME 121 JULY 2021369. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/1573/2021. (Q4, IF: 0.68)
  • Rehman, A., Z. Emad, M.U. Khan, M.A. Saleem, S.A. Saki. (2021) Investigation and analysis of fatal accidents reporting practices in the Punjab province of Pakistan and remedial measures. Resources Policy, 73, 2021, 102186, ISSN 0301-4207, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resourpol.2021.102186. (Q1, IF: 3.99)
  • Hayat, M.B., M. Danishwar, A. Hamid, M.M. Zaid, Z. Emad. (2021) Quadratic Mathematical Modeling of Sustainable Dry Beneficiation of Kaolin. Minerals 2021, 11(4), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/min11040429 (Q2, IF: 2.38)
  • Emad, M.Z., Khan, M.U., Raza, M.A. et al. (2021) Optimum Design of Half Tunnels for Transportation in the Himalayas. Transp. Infrastruct. Geotech. 2021, 8(1), 31-Mar-2021. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40515-021-00162-x (X-cat on HJRS)
  • Khan, M.U., K. O. Homan, S. A. Saki, Z. Emad & M. A. Raza (2020). Real-time diesel particulate matter monitoring in underground mines: evolution and applications, International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment, 35:4, 291-305, DOI: 10.1080/17480930.2020.1818937. (Q2, IF:1.917)
  • Shah, K.S.; M. H. M. Hashim, Z. Emad, K. S. Ariffin, M. Junaid and N. M. Khan, (2020). Effect of particle morphology on mechanical behavior of rock mass. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 13(15), Article number: 708(2020), 1-17, DOI: 10.1007/s12517-020-05680-5. (Q2, IF:1.327)
  • Rehman, A., Z. Emad, M.U. Khan. (2020). Role of Ergonomics in the Selection of Stemming Plugs for Surface Mining Operations. Archives of Mining Sciences, 65(1), 59-70, DOI: 10.24425/ams.2020.132706. (Q4, IF:0.77)
  • Majeed, Y., Z., Emad, G. Rehman, & M. Arshad (2019). Block Extraction of Himalayan Rock Salt by Applying Conventional Dimension Stone Quarrying Techniques. Journal of Mining Science, 55(4), 610-625. Doi:10.1134/S1062739119045965. (Q4, IF:0.336)
  • Naji, A.M.; H. Rehman.; Z. Emad; H. Yoo. (2019) Static and Dynamic Influence of the Shear Zone on Rockburst Occurrence in the Headrace Tunnel of the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project, Pakistan. Energies 2019, 12(11), 2124. (Q3, IF:2.702)
  • Ahmed, S.; M.U. Khan; Z. Emad. (2019) Challenges and Opportunities in Underground Coal Mines of the Salt Range in Pakistan. Georesources Journal. Volume 5, No 1, February 2019, Pages 42-46.
  • Naji, A.M.; Z. Emad; H. Rehman,.; H. Yoo. (2019) Geological and geomechanical heterogeneity in deep hydropower tunnels: A rock burst failure case study. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology. Volume 84, February 2019, Pages 507-521. (Q1, IF:4.45)
  • Ahmed, S.; Z. Emad. (2018) Blast performance improvement using stemming plugs at limestone quarries in Salt Range Pakistan. Georesources Journal. Volume 4, No 4, December 2018, Pages 42-46.
  • Naji, A.M.; H. Rehman; Z. Emad; H. Yoo. (2018) Impact of Shear Zone on Rockburst in the Deep Neelum-Jehlum Hydropower Tunnel: A Numerical Modeling Approach. Energies 2018, 11, 1935. (Q3, IF:2.702)
  • Emad, M. Z., Mitri, Hani, & Kelly, Cecile. (2018). Dynamic model validation using blast vibration monitoring in mine backfill. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 107, 48-54. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrmms.2018.04.047. (Q1, IF:3.780)
  • Emad, M. Z. (2017). Numerical modelling approach for mine backfill. Sādhanā, 42(9), 1595-1604. doi: 10.1007/s12046-017-0702-0. (Q2, IF:0.769)
  • Sainoki, A.; Z. Emad; & H.S. Mitri. (2016). Study on the efficiency of destress blasting in deep mine drift development. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 54(4), 518-528. doi: 10.1139/cgj-2016-0260 (Q1, IF:2.802)
  • Saki, S.A., J.F. Brune,; G.E. Bogin Jr.; J.W. Grubb; Z. Emad & R.C. Gilmore. (2017). CFD study of the effect of face ventilation on CH4 in returns and explosive gas zones in progressively sealed longwall gobs. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 117, 257-262. (Q2, IF:0.407)
  • Emad, M. Z., Mitri, Hani, & Kelly, Cecile. (2017). In-situ blast vibration monitoring in cemented rockfill stope – a case study. International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment, 31(2), 119-136. doi: 10.1080/17480930.2015.1123600. (Q2, IF:1.917)
  • Shehzad, M., Z. Ali, Majeed ,  M. Z. Emad,  M.  Aaqib,  B. Adeel,  (2015) “Liberation Studies of Padhrar Coal By Using Fractionation Method, XRD Analysis, and Megascopic and Microscopic Techniques.” Pakistan Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, 59 (2).  [PJSIR-1339-8849- SA] (X-Category)
  • Emad, M. Z.; Z.Ali; F. Noor; Z. Anwar; H. Ali, (2015), “Slag testing for cut and fill mining operations” Journal of the Pakistan Institute of Chemical Engineers, 43 (1) 15 – 20. (HEC: X-Category)
  • Emad, M. Z., Mitri, Hani, & Kelly, Cecile. (2015). State-of-the-art review of backfill practices for sublevel stoping system. International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment, 29(6), 544-556. doi: 10.1080/17480930.2014.889363. (Q2, IF:1.917)
  • Sheraz, A.M.; Z. Emad, M. Shahzad, S.M. Arshad (2014). “Relation between uniaxial compressive strength, point load index and sonic wave velocity for dolerite.” Pakistan Journal of Science, 66 (1), 60 – 66 (HEC: X-Category).
  • Emad, M. Z., Mitri, Hani S., & Kelly, Cecile. (2014). Effect of blast-induced vibrations on fill failure in vertical block mining with delayed backfill. Canadian Geotechnical Journal 51 (9): 975-983. doi: 10.1139/cgj-2013-0305. (Q1, IF:2.802)
  • Emad, M. Z., H. S. Mitri, J.G. Henning (2012). “Effect of blast vibrations on the stability of cemented rockfill.” International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment 26(3): 233 – 243. (Q2, IF:1.917)

 

Papers published in Conference Proceedings

  • Khan, M.U., M., Waqas, Z., Emad, M.U., Tahir. Examining the Anisotropic Strength of Plain and Steel Fiber Reinforced Shotcrete, to be presented in American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA 2024) to be held on 22-24 June 2024.
  • Ali, H., Shahzaib, M., Z., Emad, Waqas, M., Ijaz, W. Stability analysis of a tunnel nearby folded strata using numerical modeling, to be presented in American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA 2024) to be held on 22-24 June 2024.
  • Ashraf, M., Z., Emad, M., Waqas, H., Moazzam. Numerical Simulation of Toppling Failure in Sedimentary Rock Slope Cuts with Alternating Soft and Hard Bands, to be presented in American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA 2024) to be held on 22-24 June 2024.
  • Emad, M.Z., Majeed, and M. Waqas, Rock salt block extraction using conventional rock mining methods, to be presented in American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA 2023) to be held on 28-30 June 2023.
  • Emad, M.Z., Waqas, and M.U. Khan, Investigating the impacts of porosity on the rock mechanical properties of sandstone, to be presented in American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA 2023) to be held on 28-30 June 2023.
  • Emad, M.Z., U. Khan, and Zahid Mir, Stability Evaluation of Ground at Tunnels Crossing (16ICGE-NAT-02). In Sixteenth International Geotechnical Engineering Conference (16-ICGE) held in Lahore Pakistan. 7-8 Dec 2022
  • Emad, M.Z., and M. Waqas, Design of Larger Span Overhanging Cliffs Constructed in Himalayas (ARMA22-0534). In American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA2022). 27-29 June 2022.
  • Emad, M.Z., Majeed, Y., Ali, Z., and Hayat, B. (2021). An Insight of Lithium Resources, Mining, Environmental Aspects and Way Forward. In International Conference on Energy, Water and Environment, (ICEWE 2021) in Lahore. 31-March-2021.
  • Naji, A.M., Rehman, H., Emad, M.Z., Ahmed, S., Kim, J., and Yoo, H., (2019), Rockburst evaluation in complex geological environment in deep hydropower tunnels, WTC 2019 in Naples, Italy. Tunnels and Underground Cities: Engineering and Innovation meet Archaeology, Architecture and Art. 03 May – 09 May, 2019.
  • Ur Rehman A., Emad M.Z., Khan M.U., 2019. Ergonomic Selection of Stemming Plugs For Quarry Blasting Operation. In: Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc. Denver, CO, p 6.
  • Emad, M.Z. (2019). Blast-induced vibrations in underground mines. Submitted to ISCMRE 19, held in Nilore Islamabad Pakistan Sept 24th to 26th 2019 (Invited Talk).
  • Emad, M.Z. (2018). Ground control related problems in headrace tunnel of NJHPP. Submitted to ISCMRE 18, held in Nilore Islamabad Pakistan October 16th to 18th 2018 (Invited Talk)
  • Emad, M.Z. (2018). Construction of tunnel portal in weak rock mass. Submitted to World Tunneling Congress 2018, held in Dubai UAE between April 22nd to 26th 2018.
  • Emad, M.Z. (2018). Two dimensional model of gate entries of a thin-seam coal mining operation. Submitted to International Conference on Advances in Engineering and Technology, ICAET2018 held between April 2-3 2018 (Invited Talk).
  • Khan, R.M.A.; Z. Emad and B. WanJo (2017). Tunnel Portal Construction using Sequential Excavation Method: A Case Study, submitted to MATEC Web of Conferences 138, 04002 (2017), EACEF. DOI: 10.1051/matecconf/20171380400.
  • Emad, M. Z.; M.U. Khan; and R. Goraya (2017). 3D Modelling of Mine Stopes. Submitted to ICGCM 2017 to be held on 24 to 27 July 2017 in Morgantown WV.
  • Emad, M. Z.; M.U. Khan, (2017). Numerical modeling of main and tail gate of a modified long wall mining operation. In SME annual conference/meeting, Denver CO – February 2017.
  • Emad, M. Z., H. Mitri, (2013). Backfill practices for sublevel stoping system. MPES 2013 – held in between 14 – 19 October 2013 in Dresden Germany.
  • Emad, M. Z., and H. Mitri, (2013). Modelling dynamic loading on backfilled stopes in sublevel stoping systems. SINOROCK 2013-3rd ISRM Symposium on Rock Mechanics, “Rock Characterisation, Modelling and Engineering Design Methods”. F. Tan. Shanghai, China, CRC Press 2013: 351–356.
  • Emad, M. Z., and H. Mitri (2013). Optimization of cemented rockfill properties and practices for sublevel mining systems. Presented in the CIM 2013 Convention held in between May 5 – 8, 2013 in Toronto Canada.
  • Emad, M. Z., H. Mitri, and C. Kelly (2012). Effect of blast-induced vibrations on ore dilution due to fill failure. 65th Canadian Geotechnical Conference – GeoManitoba2012. G. Robinson and K. Bannister. Winnipeg Canada, Canadian Geotechnical Society: Paper number: 390.
  • Emad, M. Z., H. Mitri, and J.G. Henning (2012). “Effect of Backfill Placement Method on Its Stability: A Dynamic Modelling Case Study.” 21st Canadian Rock Mechanics Symposium, RockEng12 Edmonton AB 5 – 9, May 2012: 187 – 196.
  • Emad, M. Z., H. S. Mitri, et al. (2011). “Some factors affecting cemented rockfill failure in longhole mining.” Proceedings of the Twentieth International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection MPES 2011, Edited by A. Zharmenov, R.Singhal, S.Yefremova: 163 – 174.
  • Bagde, M. N., Z. Emad, H. Mitri (2011). “Examining the influence of stope dimensions and mining sequence on backfill dilution: a review with case study ” In Int. Conf. on Technological Challenges and Management issues for sustainability of Mining Industries (TMSMI), August 04-06, 2011, organized by Dept. of Mining Eng., NIT Rourkela, India, B. K. Pal and S. Chatterjee (Eds.): 13-28.

Awards & Honors

Membership and Association with Professional Groups

  • Pakistan Engineering Council – Professional Engineer (since 2015)
  • Institute of Engineers Pakistan – Member (since 2017)
  • Pakistan Geotechnical Society – Member (since 2019)
  • Society of Mining Engineers – Member (since 2016)
  • Reviewer for Tunneling and Underground Excavation
  • Reviewer for International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences

Awards & Honors

  • Joint Best Teacher Award (2022-23)
  • Medal for excellence in research (2014)
  • Excellence in research award (2012, 2013 and 2014)
  • Falconbridge scholarship (2012)
  • James Douglas fellow (2011 and 2013)
  • Fully funded scholarship for PhD studies (2010-2014)
  • UET postgraduate scholarship
  • Merit scholarship in undergraduate studies
  • Secured an overall 1st position in all semesters
Tel: +966 (013) 860-8716

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 2171

Dr. Sulaiman A. Alarifi

Associate Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Alarifi is an associate professor in the petroleum engineering department at KFUPM. He has been with KFUPM since 2013 when he joined as a graduate assistant. He has taught courses in Petroleum Economics, Reservoir Description and Unconventional Resources Evaluation

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA, 2020.
  • Minor Degree, Mineral and Energy Economics, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, USA, 2020.
  • M.S., Petroleum Engineering, KFUPM, Dhahran, KSA. 2016.
  • B.S., Petroleum Engineering, KFUPM, Dhahran, KSA, 2012.

Research Interests

  • Development of unconventional reservoirs
  • Petroleum production optimization
  • Petroleum reserves estimation
  • Enhanced oil recovery

Selected Publications

  • Baig, A. R., Alarifi, S. A., Mahmoud, M., Kamal, M. S., Murtaza, M., AlAhmari, M. M., & Alhumam, A. (2024). Experimental Investigation of a Modified Enzyme-Induced Carbonate Precipitation Solution for Sand Production Control Applications. SPE Journal, 29(05), 2463-2475.
  • Omarov, K., Alarifi, S. A., Mahmoud, M., Kamal, M. S., Murtaza, M., Humam, A., & AlAhmari, M. M. (2023). Sand consolidation using enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation: new insights on temperature and particle size effects. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 15528.
  • Murtaza, M., Rasm, M. Y., Alarifi, S. A., Kamal, M. S., Mahmoud, M., & Al-Ajmi, M. (2023). An Efficient Single Step Approach for Barium Sulfate (BaSO4) Scale Removal at High Temperature. Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 48, 16879–16888.
  • Alarifi S. A., Mustafa A, Omarov K., Baig AR., Tariq Z. and Mahmoud M. (2022). A Review of Enzyme-Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation Applicability in the Oil and Gas Industry. Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol. 10:900881. 
  • Alarifi, S. A. (2022). Workflow to predict wellhead choke performance during multiphase flow using machine learning. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 214, 110563.
  • Alarifi, S. A., Abdel Rahman, S., & Al-Ajmi, M. (2022). Feasibility study formulation for the applicability of rigless temporary esps. Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology, 12(9), 2493-2509.
  • Tariq, Z., Aljawad, M.S., Hasan, A., Murtaza, M., Mohammed, E., El-Husseiny, A., Alarifi, S.A., Mahmoud, M. and Abdulraheem, A. (2021). A systematic review of data science and machine learning applications to the oil and gas industry. J Petrol Explor Prod Technol 11, 4339–4374.
  • Murtaza, M., Alarifi, S. A., Abozuhairah, A., Mahmoud, M., Onaizi, S. A., & Al-Ajmi, M. (2021). Optimum selection of H2S scavenger in light-weight and heavy-weight water-based drilling fluids. ACS Omega, 6(38), 24919-24930.
  • Alarifi, S. A., & Miskimins, J. (2021). A new approach to estimating ultimate recovery for multistage hydraulically fractured horizontal wells by utilizing completion parameters using machine learning. SPE Production & Operations, 36(03), 468-483.
  • Alarifi, S. A., Mahmoud, M. A., & Kamal, M. S. (2018). Interactions of DTPA chelating agent with sandstone rocks during EOR: Rock surface charge study. Fuel, 232, 684-692.

Awards & Honors

  • SPE Regional Service Award, by: Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Middle East and North Africa region, June 2024
  • Excellence in academic advising, by: King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM), May 2024.
Tel: + 966 (013) 860-2159
Fax: + 966 (013) 860-4447

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 2145

Dr. Talal Al Shafloot

Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

My mission is to insure energy security of the planet while addressing emissions issues. This can be accomplished by finding economically viable solution for producing energy from unconventional resources, as well as predicting the short and long-term impact of sequestering CO2 in geomechanical and transport aspects.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., in Petroleum Engineering, Stanford University
  • M.S., in Petroleum Engineering, Texas A&M University
  • B.S., in Petroleum Engineering, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals

Research Interests

  • Unconventional rocks characterization
  • Reservoir Geomechanics (conventional and unconventional)
  • CO2 sequestration and seal integrity
  • Waterless Fracturing

Selected Publications

  • Al Shafloot, T. S., Kim, T. W., & Kovscek, A. R. (2022, November). Investigating the Influence of sc-CO2 on Short-term Creep Behavior for Green River Shale Samples under Triaxial Conditions. In ARMA/DGS/SEG International Geomechanics Symposium. OnePetro.
  • Al Shafloot, T., Kim, T. W., & Kovscek, A. R. (2021). Investigating fracture propagation characteristics in shale using sc-CO2 and water with the aid of X-ray Computed Tomography. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 92, 103736.
  • Rafieisakhaei, M., Al Shafloot, T. S., Afra, S., & Barazandeh, B. (2017, May). A System Dynamics Analysis on the Economic Potentials of CO2 Management System on Latin American Oil Producers. In SPE Latin America and Caribbean Petroleum Engineering Conference. Society of Petroleum Engineers.

Awards & Honors

  • Ph.D., scholarship, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
  • M.S., scholarship, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
  • B.S., scholarship, Saudi Aramco
Tel: +966 (013) 860-4970

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 1252

Dr. Mustafa Al-Ramadan

Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Al Ramadan joined the Department of Petroleum Engineering at KFUPM as a graduate assistant in 2011, and he is currently an Assistant Professor. He has more than 9 years of experience in academia and research.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA, 2020
  • M.Sc. in Petroleum Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, USA, 2014
  • B.SC. in Petroleum Engineering, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, KSA, 2011

Research Interests

  • Cementing
  • Gas Migration
  • Well Integrity
  • Conformance Control

Selected Publications

  • Al Ramadan, M., Salehi, S., Kwatia, G., Ezeakacha, C., & Teodoriu, C. (2019). Experimental investigation of well integrity: Annular gas migration in cement column. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 179, 126-135
  • Al Ramadan, M., Salehi, S., Ezeakacha, C., & Teodoriu, C. (2019). Analytical and Experimental Investigation of the Critical Length in Casing–Liner Overlap. Sustainability, 11(23), 6861
  • Al Ramadan, M., Salehi, S., & Teodoriu, C. (2019). Robust Leakage Modeling for Plug and Abandonment Applications. In ASME 2019 38th International Conference on Ocean, Offshore and Arctic Engineering. American Society of Mechanical Engineers Digital Collection
  • Kwatia, G., Al Ramadan, M., Salehi, S., & Teodoriu, C. (2019). Enhanced cement composition for preventing annular gas migration. In ASME 2019 38th International Conference on Ocean, Offshore and Arctic Engineering. American Society of Mechanical Engineers Digital Collection
  • Phi, T., Elgaddafi, R., Al Ramadan, M., Ahmed, R., & Teodoriu, C. (2019, November). Well Integrity Issues: Extreme High-Pressure High-Temperature Wells and Geothermal Wells a Review. In SPE Thermal Well Integrity and Design Symposium. Society of Petroleum Engineers.
  • Imqam, A., Bai, B., Al Ramadan, M., Wei, M., Delshad, M., and Sepehrnoori, K. (2015). Preformed-Particle-Gel Extrusion Through Open Conduits During Conformance-Control Treatments, SPE Journal, 20:5, 1083-1093

Awards & Honors

  • Imperial Barrel Award (IBA), AAPG, 2012
Dr-Bashirul-Haq
Tel: +966 (013) 860-​8359
Fax: +966 (013) 860-4447

Location: Bldg.76, Rm. 2211

Dr. Bashirul Haq

Associate Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Haq is employed as an Assistant Professor at The Department of Petroleum Engineering. His association with the University began in 2008 when he took on a part-time Lecturers role and this was in place for 3 years.

Dr. Haq has spent a number of years working in Australia and this involved being an Associate Lecturer at The School of Oil and Gas Engineering, The University of Western Australia from 2006-08. He then became a Consultant with Chevron and Western Australian Energy Research Alliance from 2010-15.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Australia, 2013.

Research Interests

  • Green Enhanced Oil Recovery
  • Microbial Enhanced Oil Recovery
  • Dynamic Reservoir Characterization
  • Production Health Analysis
  • Production Optimization

Selected Publications

  • GOLDSCHMIDT, P., HAQ, B., CRAWLEY, C., PALANISAMY, S., 2013, “ARTAM-WH Early Predictive Well Health (WH) Meta Monitoring Tool”, APPEA 2014 Journal.
  • SERFATY, J.L., POGSON, M. AND HAQ, B. 2011 “Western Australia’s First Underground Gas Storage Field: Specific Failure Modes” APPEA  2011 Journal
  • LI, J., LIU, J., TREFRY, M.G., PARK, J., LIU, K., HAQ, B., JOHNSTON, C.D., CLENNELL, B., VOLK, H. 2011, “Impact of Rock Heterogeneity on Interactions of Microbial Enhanced Oil Recovery Processes”,Journal of Transport in Porous Media, 92, pp. 373-396.
  • LI, J., LIU, J., TREFRY, M.G., PARK, J., LIU, K., HAQ, B., JOHNSTON, C.D., CLENNELL, B., VOLK, H. 2010, “Interactions of Microbial Enhanced Oil Recovery Processes”, Journal of Transport in Porous Media, 87(1) pp. 77-104.
  • HAQ, M.B. AND RAHMAN, M.K., 2008 “A Comparative Study of Three Methods for Estimating Initial Gas In Place Applied to Gas Fields in Bangladesh” Journal of Petroleum Science and Technology, 26, pp. 532-544.
  • HAQ, M.B., GOMES, E., TAMIM, M., 2005 “Production Optimization Study of Saldanadi Gas Field” Journal of Chemical Engineering. Published by Chemical Engineering Division, The Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh. Vol. ChE 23, No. 1, ISSN: 0379-4318, December, 2005.

Awards & Honors

  • Western Australia CSIRO-University Postgraduate Scholarship (WACUPS)
  • Scholarship for International Research Fees (SIRF)
Tel: + 966 (013) 860-1934

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 1253

Dr. Hasan J. Khan

Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Hasan J Khan joined KFUPM as an Assistant Professor at the Petroleum Engineering department in 2022. He received a BE (2012) in Petroleum Engineering from NED University, Pakistan, and a MS & PhD in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 2016 and 2019 respectively. His research focused on understanding particle deposition patterns in vuggy carbonaceous media for which he extensively utilized CT scanning and image analysis techniques. He then worked for 2 years as a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where his work focused on characterizing fracture evolution in shales during acidized core floods. His research interests include digital rock petrophysics, reusing produced water for hydraulic fracturing, formation damage in carbonaceous media, and reactive transport in unconventional rocks.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, USA (2019)
  • M.S., Petroleum Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, USA (2016)
  • B.Engg., Petroleum Engineering, NED University of Engineering & Technology, Pakistan (2012)

Research Interests

  • Particulate transport in carbonaceous porous media
  • Reactive imbibition
  • Produced water rehabilitation
  • Reactive transport in unconventional rocks
  • Digital rock petrophysics

Selected Publications

  • Khan, Hasan Javed, Eleanor Spielman-Sun, Adam D. Jew, John Bargar, Anthony Kovscek, and Jennifer L. Druhan. “A critical review of the physicochemical impacts of water chemistry on shale in hydraulic fracturing systems.” Environmental science & technology 55, no. 3 (2021): 1377-1394. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.0c04901
  • Khan, Hasan Javed, David DiCarlo, and Maša Prodanović. “The effect of vug distribution on particle straining in permeable media.” Journal of Hydrology 580 (2020): 124306. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhydrol.2019.124306
  • Khan, Hasan J., Maša Prodanovic, and David A. DiCarlo. “The effect of vuggy porosity on straining in porous media.” SPE Journal 24, no. 03 (2019): 1164-1178. https://doi.org/10.2118/194201-PA
  • Khan, Hasan J., Maryam S. Mirabolghasemi, Hongtao Yang, Maša Prodanović, David A. DiCarlo, and Matthew T. Balhoff. “Study of formation damage caused by retention of bi-dispersed particles using combined pore-scale simulations and particle flooding experiments.” Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 158 (2017): 293-308. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.petrol.2017.08.061

Awards & Honors

  • Petroleum Engineering Department Fellowship – Pioneer Natural Resources (2014)
  • Curator – Digital Rocks Portal
Tel: + 966 (013) 860-7983
Fax: + 966 (013) 860-4447

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 2169

Dr. Shabeeb N. Alajmi

Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Alajmi is an Assistant Professor in the Petroleum Engineering Department at the College of Petroleum and Geosciences. Before joining KFUPM, he worked for 3 years as a reservoir engineer in HPHT offshore gas reservoirs. His research interests focus on proppant transport for hydraulic fracturing applications, acid stimulation, geomechanics, and CO2 sequestration, in which he has authored and co-authored several journal articles and conference proceedings.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, CO, USA, 2022.
  • M.S., Engineering and Technology Management, Colorado School of Mines, CO, USA, 2022.
  • M.S., Natural Gas Engineering and Management, University of Oklahoma, OK, USA, 2017.
  • B.S., Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, West Virginia University, WV, USA, 2012.

Research Interests

  • Proppant Transport
  • Hydraulic Fracturing
  • Stimulation
  • Geomechanics
  • Unconventional Reservoirs
  • Natural Gas Engineering

Selected Publications

  • Lawal, U., Khan, Alajmei, S., & Alyaseri, A. (2024). Evaluating CO2 residuals in water aquifers and depleted oil reservoirs via X-Ray Core-Flooding experiments. Energy & Fuels. https://lnkd.in/d4XMsaEV.
  • Bahri, A., Alajmei, S., & Miskimins, J. (2024). Particle dune height prediction. Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13369-024-09402-x
  • Al-Darweesh, J., Aljawad, M. S., Tariq, Z., Alajmei, S., Yan, B., & Kamal, M. S. (2024). Prediction of Foam Rheology Models Parameters Utilizing Machine Learning Tools. ACS Omega. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.4c00965
  • Afagwu, Clement, Alafnan, Saad, Mahmoud, Mohamed A., Alajmei, Shabeeb, and Shirish Patil. “Permeability Modeling of Pore Shapes, Compaction, Sorption, and Molecular Diffusivity in Unconventional Reservoirs.” SPE J. (2024;): doi: https://doi.org/10.2118/219460-PA
  • Alajmei, S. (2023). Prediction of proppant distribution as a function of perforation orientations. Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology, 1-13.
  • Budiman, O., & Alajmei, S. (2023). Seawater-Based Fracturing Fluid: A Review. ACS Omega.
  • Alajmei, S. and Miskimins, J. L. Effects of Altering Perforation Configurations on Proppant Transport and Distribution in Freshwater Fluid. SPE Prod & Oper (2022): 1-16. https://doi.org/10.2118/210573-PA.
  • Alajmei, S. and Miskimins, J. L. 2021. Limited Entry Perforation Configurations Effect on Proppant Transport and Distribution in Fresh Water. Paper presented at the SPE Hydraulic Fracturing Technology Conference and Exhibition, Virtual, 4–6 May. SPE-204163-MS. 10.2118/204163-MS.
  • Alajmei, S. and Miskimins, J. 2020. Effects of Variable Perforation Configurations on Proppant Trasport and  Distribution in Slickwater Fluids. Paper presented at the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, Virtual, 26–29 October. SPE-201605-MS. 10.2118/201605-MS
Tel: +966 (013) 860-7062

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 2157

Dr. Ahmed Farid Ibrahim

Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Ibrahim is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Petroleum Engineering, KFUPM. He worked as a Teaching Assistant at the Department of Petroleum Engineering, Cairo University for three years and as a Geo-mechanical Engineer at Advantek International Co. for three years. He worked as a senior reservoir Engineer at Apache’s North America Unconventional Resources Region. He earned his Ph.D. in December 2017 from Texas A&M University.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, Texas A&M University, USA, 2017.
  • M.S., Petroleum Engineering, Cairo University, Egypt, 2011.
  • B.S., Petroleum Engineering, Cairo University, Egypt, 2009.

Research Interests

  • Reservoir modeling and simulation for conventional and unconventional reservoirs.
  • Production and well performance analysis
  • Reservoir Simulation, History Matching, and Parameter Estimation.
  • CO2 sequestration, Foam Injection, Waterflooding, EOR, Coalbed methane.

Selected Publications

  • Ibrahim, A. F., Assem, A., & Ibrahim, M. (2020). A Novel Workflow for Water Flowback RTA Analysis to Rank the Shale Quality and Estimate Fracture Geometry. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 103387. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jngse.2020.103387.
  • Ibrahim, A. F., and Nasr-El-Din, H. A. 2019. Effect of well shut-in after fracturing operations on near-wellbore permeability. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 106213.
  • Ibrahim, A. F., Ibrahim, M, Pieprzica, C. 2019. Effect of Soaking Process on Gas Well Performance in shale formations: Actual Cases and Correlations Development. SPE Reservoir Evaluation & Engineering.
  • Ibrahim, A. F., & Nasr-El-Din, H. A. 2019. Stability Improvement of Carbon Dioxide Foam Using Nanoparticles and Viscoelastic Surfactants for Enhanced-Oil-Recovery Applications. SPE Reservoir Evaluation & Engineering.
  • Ibrahim, A.F. and Nasr-El-Din, H.A. 2017. Effects of Formation Water Salinity, Formation Pressure, Gas Composition, and Gas Flow Rate on CO2 Sequestration in Coal. Accepted for publication in SPEJ.
  • Ibrahim, A. F., and Nasr-El-Din, H.A. 2016. Effect of Water Salinity on Coal Wettability During CO2 Sequestration in Coal Seams. Energy & Fuel. DOI: 10.1021/acs.energy fuels.6b01205

Awards & Honors

  • OGAPS Grant, Texas A&M University, 2015
  • SPE student paper Contest, Ranked First place in the subregional Middle East Level.
  • Schlumberger Distinguished Student Award,2007 and 2008.
Tel: + 966 (013) 860-2749

Location: Bldg. 76, Rm. 1249

Dr. Yuzhu Wang

Assistant Professor, Department of Petroleum Engineering

Dr. Wang is an Assistant professor in the Petroleum Engineering Department at KFUPM. His research interest focuses on multiscale reservoir characterization using machine learning.  His academic experience covers geology, geophysics, and petroleum engineering. Besides, Dr. Wang has four years’ work experience as an engineer in the SINOPEC, China.

Educational Qualification

  • Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, 2018
  • M.S., Geophysics, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China, 2010
  • B.S., Geology, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China, 2007

Research Interests

  • Digital Core Analysis
  • Multiscale Reservoir Modelling
  • Geostatistics

Selected Publications

  • Yuzhu Wang, Shuyu Sun, A rock fabric classification method based on the grey level co-occurrence matrix and the Gaussian mixture model, Jounal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 2022.
  • Yuzhu Wang, Abdulaziz Alzaben, Christoph H.Arns, Shuyu Sun. Image-based rock typing using local homogeneity filter and Chan-Vese model, Computers & Geosciences, 2021.
  • Yuzhu Wang, Shuyu Sun, Image-based rock typing using grain geometry features, Computers & Geosciences, 2021.
  • Yuzhu Wang, Shuyu Sun, Multiscale pore structure characterization based on SEM images, Fuel, 2021.
  • Yuzhu Wang, Christoph H Arns, Sheik S Rahman, Ji-Youn Arns. Porous Structure Reconstruction Using Convolutional Neural Networks, Mathematical geosciences, 2018.
  • Yuzhu Wang, Ji-Youn Arns, Sheikh S. Rahman, and Christoph H. Arns. Three-dimensional porous structure reconstruction based on structural local similarity via sparse representation on micro-computed-tomography images, Physical Review E, 2018.
  • Yuzhu Wang, Sheik S Rahman, Christoph H Arns. Super resolution reconstruction of -CT image of rock sample using neighbour embedding algorithm. Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, 2018

Awards & Honors

  • Best paper Award 2018, Computers and Geosciences
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