Sustainable Infrastructure Development Research Articles

Enhancing Robustness in Precast Modular Frame Optimization: Integrating NSGA-II, NSGA-III, and RVEA for Sustainable Infrastructure

The advancement toward sustainable infrastructure presents complex multi-objective optimization (MOO) challenges. This paper expands the current understanding of design frameworks that balance cost, environmental impacts, social factors, and structural integrity. Integrating MOO with multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), the study targets enhancements in life cycle sustainability for complex engineering projects using precast modular road frames. Three advanced evolutionary algorithms—NSGA-II, NSGA-III, and RVEA—are optimized and deployed to address sustainability objectives under performance constraints. The efficacy of these algorithms is gauged through a comparative analysis, and a robust MCDM approach is applied to nine non-dominated solutions, employing SAW, FUCA, TOPSIS, PROMETHEE, and VIKOR decision-making techniques. An entropy theory-based method ensures systematic, unbiased criteria weighting, augmenting the framework’s capacity to pinpoint designs balancing life cycle sustainability. The results reveal that NSGA-III is the algorithm converging towards the most cost-effective solutions, surpassing NSGA-II and RVEA by 21.11% and 10.07%, respectively, while maintaining balanced environmental and social impacts. The RVEA achieves up to 15.94% greater environmental efficiency than its counterparts. The analysis of non-dominated solutions identifies the A4 design, utilizing 35 MPa concrete and B500S steel, as the most sustainable alternative across 80% of decision-making algorithms. The ranking correlation coefficients above 0.94 demonstrate consistency among decision-making techniques, underscoring the robustness of the integrated MOO and MCDM framework. The results in this paper expand the understanding of the applicability of novel techniques for enhancing engineering practices and advocate for a comprehensive strategy that employs advanced MOO algorithms and MCDM to enhance sustainable infrastructure development.

Sustainability through the use of Building Information Modelling in infrastructure planning

This study examines the role of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in infrastructure planning from a sustainability perspective. It emphasises how BIM can contribute to the promotion of ecological, economic and social sustainability. Interviews with experts have shown that BIM can not only optimise the energy consumption of infrastructure projects, but also lead to precise material quantification and optimisation. Despite the benefits, the use of BIM in infrastructure planning is limited, especially in small and medium-sized projects and with local authorities. The study identifies challenges such as the complexity of BIM software systems and the additional costs of implementing them. Recommendations for action include training clients and engineering firms in the use of BIM for cost forecasting and extending the digital twin concept beyond the construction and planning process. The results show that widespread BIM application is only possible if both clients and planning offices share sustainability goals and are prepared to bear the additional costs for BIM planning. The work emphasises the need to use BIM beyond building construction for sustainable infrastructure development and provides insights into the practice of engineering firms in the infrastructure sector.

Sustainable Tourism Infrastructure Development

This study looks at the development of sustainable tourist infrastructure, focusing only on physical factors. In terms of resource efficiency and environmental sustainability, planning, design, and management techniques are assessed through a review of the literature and case studies. In order to pinpoint problems and offer viable solutions, the research carefully examines how much energy, water, garbage, and transportation systems are used. The report promotes minimising environmental effect and optimising resource conservation in tourism infrastructure projects by highlighting eco-friendly technology and design ideas. Innovative strategies, such as the use of sustainable construction materials, integrated renewable energy, water-saving techniques, and effective transportation systems, are demonstrated in successful case studies. The research prioritises physical factors to ensure lowest ecological impact and long-term environmental resilience, advocating for sustainable tourist infrastructure by integrating theoretical and practical insights. The findings contribute to advancing sustainable development goals within the tourism sector, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, planners, and developers to create destinations in harmony with natural surroundings. Keywords— Sustainable tourism, Tourism infrastructure, Physical parameters, Water usage, Waste management, Transportation systems

INNOVATIVE TORSIONAL STRENGTHENING OF RC T-BEAMS USING NSM FRP ROPES

This study addresses the critical need for effective torsional strengthening techniques in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, with a focus on T-beams. Existing methods, particularly those utilizing externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, have been extensively studied for axial, bending, and shear loads, but torsional behavior remains a complex and underexplored area. The paper introduces a novel approach employing FRP ropes configured as closed stirrups, aiming to enhance torsional capacity while addressing practical challenges associated with conventional methods. Experimental investigations on T-shaped RC beams reveal promising results, demonstrating the effectiveness of FRP ropes in closed stirrup form. The findings not only contribute to a deeper understanding of this specific strengthening technique but also offer practical insights for designing and retrofitting RC structures susceptible to torsional loading. The study's outcomes have the potential to influence design practices, contribute to sustainable infrastructure development, and inform future guidelines for optimizing FRP strengthening strategies in T-beams.

Addressing future food demand in The Gambia: can increased crop productivity and climate change adaptation close the supply–demand gap?

With rising demand for food and the threats posed by climate change, The Gambia faces significant challenges in ensuring sufficient and nutritious food for its population. To address these challenges, there is a need to increase domestic food production while limiting deforestation and land degradation. In this study, we modified the FABLE Calculator, a food and land-use system model, to focus on The Gambia to simulate scenarios for future food demand and increasing domestic food production. We considered the impacts of climate change on crops, the adoption of climate change adaptation techniques, as well as the potential of enhanced fertiliser use and irrigation to boost crop productivity, and assessed whether these measures would be sufficient to meet the projected increase in food demand. Our results indicate that domestic food production on existing cropland will not be sufficient to meet national food demand by 2050, leading to a significant supply–demand gap. However, investments in fertiliser availability and the development of sustainable irrigation infrastructure, coupled with climate change adaptation strategies like the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties and optimised planting dates, could halve this gap. Addressing the remaining gap will require additional strategies, such as increasing imports, expanding cropland, or prioritising the production of domestic food crops over export crops. Given the critical role imports play in The Gambia’s food supply, it is essential to ensure a robust flow of food imports by diversifying partners and addressing regional trade barriers. Our study highlights the urgent need for sustained investment and policy support to enhance domestic food production and food imports to secure sufficient and healthy food supplies amidst growing demand and climate change challenges.

Stabilization of Loose Soils as Part of Sustainable Development of Road Infrastructure

In the context of growing demand for road infrastructure expansion, sustainability is of key importance. Enhancing road construction technology ensures efficient, durable transportation infrastructure, vital for economic growth. Responsible road construction, especially in areas of historical and environmental significance, is essential. Preserving ecosystems and local heritage in road planning protects valuable areas and supports regional sustainability. Rural roads, often in forested areas, should maintain natural aesthetics. Economic challenges require flexible, efficient roads. Many existing unpaved roads, especially in rural and forest environments, fail to meet increasing traffic and load of heavy agricultural and maintenance vehicles. Soil stabilization methods, discussed in various publications, offer sustainable solutions. Research on ecofriendly binding additives provides the opportunity to reduce cement consumption and CO2 emissions. Such innovations enhance road efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and benefit the environment. Investing in modern road technologies mitigates climate change effects by reducing emissions and protecting ecosystems. Our research indicates that soil stabilization technologies significantly improve road strength and durability. Additives can increase compressive strength by over 50% with minimal cement content. Continued research into road quality and durability is vital for sustainable transport infrastructure development. The results presented in this paper were obtained after two periods of solidification: after 7 and 30 days, with three types of ads (ion-exchangeable, chemical, and polymeric) to cement. In all tests, compaction strength improved by at least 35% in samples with the lowest cement content.

Fuzzy Analysis of Financial Risk Management Strategies for Sustainable Public–Private Partnership Infrastructure Projects in Ghana

Public–private partnership (PPP) is a prominent tool for sustainable infrastructure development. However, the positive contributions of PPPs toward the attainment of sustainable, climate resilience and zero-carbon infrastructure projects are hampered by poor financial risk management. This problem is more prevalent in developing countries like Ghana where private investment inflow has plummeted due to the COVID-19 recession and poor project performance. Thus, this study aims to assess the key financial risk management strategies in ensuring sustainable PPP infrastructure projects in Ghana. The study utilised primary data from PPP practitioners in Ghana solicited through survey questionnaires. Factor analysis, mean scores and fuzzy synthetic analysis are the data analysis techniques for this study. The results revealed that sustainable and green funding models, effective cost-reduction initiatives, a competent team with committed leadership and emerging technologies and regulations constitute the key strategies for managing the financial risks of sustainable PPP infrastructure projects. Although future studies must expand the scope of data gathering, the findings of the study enrich the theoretical understanding of financial risks in sustainable investments in PPP infrastructures. Relevant remedies that will aid the development of practical financial risk management guidelines are also provided in this study for PPP practitioners.

Sustainable Financing for Transport Infrastructure: An Integral Approach for the Russian Federation

The development of global transport infrastructure is a crucial aspect of economic growth and prosperity. In this study, the main trends in the development of global transport infrastructure are analyzed, with a focus on the state and trends in the functioning of the national transport infrastructure of the Russian Federation. By identifying key problems and determinants of financial growth, a preliminary decomposition is made to guide future development. Proceeding from the fact that the innovative development of Russia’s transport infrastructure should occur through state stimulation of the development of intellectual and partnership relationships and the formation of a digital environment for managing projects for its innovative transformation at the state level, this study identifies the goals, methods, and levels of ensuring the implementation of innovative transformations in transport infrastructure. Consideration of the historical aspects of the formation of the modern economy and comprehension of the mechanisms of state management and tools to ensure innovative transformations in the sphere of transport allowed us to identify three stages (dogmatic, strategic regulation, and innovative integration) of transformation regarding the theory of the state management for the innovative development of transport infrastructure in Russia. Taking into account the content of these periods of transformation allowed us to detail the specifics of the modern stage; highlight the shortcomings; and propose theoretical and methodological foundations for revising the provisions of the state regulation of innovative development in transport infrastructure. To determine the effectiveness of the processes of the state regulation of innovation activity in the transport industry, we propose a model for assessing the effectiveness of innovation activity in the transport complex, which is presented in the form of a three-level parametric system, where the first group of indicators allows us to assess the innovation activity of economic entities in the transport industry; the second allows us to assess innovation potential; and the third allows us to assess the effectiveness of innovation. The novelty of the proposed model is the consideration of the principles of dynamism, perspective, and expediency, and its application allows us to establish the level of innovative development in transport infrastructure. An important factor in ensuring the sustainable development of a country’s economy and forming its positive image in the world is its financial attractiveness. Therefore, the assessment of financial attractiveness is a priority task for the development of modern sustainable transport infrastructure in Russia.

Review On Evolution and Development of Electric Road Roller

The evolution and development of electric road rollers mark a significant advancement in the construction machinery industry, driven by the imperative of sustainable infrastructure development. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the historical progression, technological innovations, and current trends shaping electric road rollers. Beginning with the early developments of steam-powered and diesel-driven road rollers, the transition towards electric propulsion systems is traced, highlighting the environmental benefits and operational efficiencies offered by electric models. An electric-applied road roller vehicle represents a sustainable and innovative solution for the construction industry. This eco-friendly equipment utilizes electric power to propel the roller, reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution compared to traditional fossil fuel-powered counterparts. The vehicle's design incorporates advanced technology, such as gear chain mechanism to maximize energy efficiency and extend battery life. With its quiet operation and reduced environmental impact, the electric road roller vehicle demonstrates a promising step towards greener construction practices, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future. Top of Form Keywords— Electric Road Roller, Battery, High torque dc motor, propulsion system, gear assembly, etc.

РАЗВИТИЕ ГОРОДА НА ОСНОВЕ КОНКУРСНОЙ ЗАЯВКИ ПО МАЛЫМ ГОРОДАМ И ИСТОРИЧЕСКИМ ПОСЕЛЕНИЯМ

Abstract. The article is a study devoted to the development and implementation of the project "Tatar legends – to the city by the old road along Commune Street" in the city of Arsk. The study is based on the analysis of surveys of residents who identified the need for improvement and development of the route, as well as the identification of problems existing in the project area.
 The subject of the study: The reconstruction of the Commune Street in the city of Arsk on the basis of its comprehensive strategic development plan, which includes effective management strategies, sustainable infrastructure development and the promotion of cultural and social events to attract tourism and increase the economic potential of the city.
 Materials and methods: During the study, an analysis of the existing urban infrastructure was applied to identify critical issues requiring improvement in the city of Arsk, a survey and collection of feedback from residents to determine their needs and preferences for urban development.
 Results: The article describes the proposed solutions, which include the creation of convenient sidewalks, lighting, bike paths, the construction of a new bridge and the reorganization of the intersection. The restoration of the identity of the station square and the development of the historical space are also being considered. The authors emphasize the importance of the project for the city of Arsk and its potential to improve infrastructure and attract tourists. Landscaping of the territory will allow for various events such as wedding ceremonies, fairs and festivals, which helps to increase the attractiveness of the city. The article presents the financing of the project and the projected revenues from the operation of the projected territory, as well as its connection with the development of municipal districts. It is expected that the implementation of the project will lead to positive and long-term changes in the city of Arsk, contributing to its economic development.
 Conclusions: The study presents important practical and theoretical results, supported by data from surveys of residents and proposed solutions to improve the infrastructure of the city of Arsk and its development as a tourist destination.

Identifying children’s perception of interior space to the earthquake disaster: A case study of elementary school students in Jakarta

Earthquake disasters affected several physical damages and left traumatic experiences to sensitive groups, especially children. This kind of damage results in after-effect risks from the earthquake. Associated with this condition, the United Nation has published that the number of countries with disaster risk reduction strategies starting in 2015 should be increased. This research is aimed to identify children’s perceptions after the earthquake disaster through virtual settings. The framework used a literature review and a simulation of 3D virtual model testing on a group of elementary school students in Jakarta using a certain model type of room and aperture (window). Colour and window size are the main parameters for data showing the children’s preferences. Potential parameters are expected to be produced as guidance and recommendations on the post-disaster (earthquake-specific) in the future design decision. The parameters are aimed to help decision makers and designers to reach disaster risk reduction, in relation with SDGs on social aspect for the future sustainable development of resilient infrastructure, communities, and cities.

The influence of crystalline technology as concrete admixture on compressive strength and permeability

In regions prone to frequent rainfall or coastal exposure, concrete gradually becomes porous due to environmental influences. This study systematically examines the impact of different concrete formulations on compressive strength and permeability. It evaluates standard concrete, concrete with 1% and 2% crystalline admixtures, and concrete utilizing Portland cement type V. Compressive strength tests reveal that concrete with 1% and 2% crystalline admixtures, alongside Portland cement type V concrete, exhibit superior quality compared to standard concrete. Permeability assessments unveil intriguing trends: Portland cement type V concrete displays heightened permeability relative to standard concrete, while 1% and 2% crystalline admixture concretes exhibit significantly reduced permeability, surpassing both standard concrete and Portland cement type V concrete. The heightened concrete density associated with crystalline admixtures can be attributed to their dual influence on augmenting compressive strength and decreasing permeability. By reinforcing these mechanisms, crystalline admixtures effectively enhance concrete durability. This research contributes to the understanding of advanced construction materials and offers insights into sustainable infrastructure development possibilities. Subsequent sections delve into experimental intricacies, result explications, and wider implications of these findings, shaping the trajectory of future construction practices.

Investigation on the potential of Eulaliopsis binata (babiyo) as a sustainable fiber reinforcement for mortar and concrete

The production of synthetic materials emits harmful gases, driving researchers to seek eco-friendly alternatives, leading to increased demand for natural fiber-based composites in various industries. With advantages like cost-effectiveness, renewability, and biodegradability, natural fiber reinforced composites gain popularity in concrete applications. Their use in concrete has gained global acceptance for its smaller carbon footprint, reduced energy consumption, and minimized wastage. This research aims to evaluate the suitability of Eulaliopsis binata (EB) fiber in mortar and concrete applications. Mortar samples were prepared using different proportions of alkaline-treated EB fibers (0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, 1% and 1.25% by total weight of mortar) in a cement-sand-water mixture with a 1:1:0.35 ratio. Additionally, concrete with a mix proportion of 1:2.15:3.13 (cement: fine aggregate: coarse aggregate) and a water-cement ratio of 0.618 was prepared. The flexural strength test was conducted using plain concrete as well as concrete with untreated and epoxy-treated EB fiber bars of varying diameters. The results revealed that EB fiber-reinforced mortar exhibited a notable increase in flexural and splitting tensile strength, with a 10.85% and 6.23% improvement compared to plain mortar at 0.75% EB fiber content, while compressive strength decreased. Similarly, concrete reinforced with untreated and epoxy-coated EB fiber bars of 14 mm diameter demonstrated 12.32% and 13.27% higher flexural strength, respectively, than that of unreinforced concrete. These results highlight the potential for affordable green concrete production, supporting sustainable infrastructure development. The EB fiber usage presents an encouraging pathway for environmentally conscious construction practices with reduced environmental impact.

Design and simulation of 4 kW solar power-based hybrid EV charging station

Electric vehicles (EVs) have become an attractive alternative to IC engine cars due to the increased interest in lowering the consumption of fossil fuels and pollution. This paper presents the design and simulation of a 4 kW solar power-based hybrid EV charging station. With the increasing demand for electric vehicles and the strain they pose on the electrical grid, particularly at fast and superfast charging stations, the development of sustainable and efficient charging infrastructure is crucial. The proposed hybrid charging station integrates solar power and battery energy storage to provide uninterrupted power for EVs, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing grid overload. The system operates using a three-stage charging strategy, with the PV array, battery bank, and grid electricity ensuring continuous power supply for EVs. Additionally, the system can export surplus solar energy to the grid, reducing the load demand. The paper also discusses the use of MPPT techniques, PV cell modeling, and charge controller algorithms to optimize the performance of the hybrid charging station.

Inside into GNSS CORS infrastructure setup in Malaysia

Global Navigation Satellite Systems is a space-based technology that are used in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) applications. Accordingly, the Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) networks, which are a common type of GNSS ground-based augmentation infrastructure are used to distribute PNT information with centimetre accuracy. In Malaysia, multiple CORS networks are operated independently by various government agencies, universities, and industries. Numerous users have licenced CORS data and services for their positioning and navigation applications. There may be issues with the existing CORS operational model among public and industrial positioning and navigation applications that need to be considered. This paper reviewed the country's CORS management and technical issues and discussed the Higgins model and quadruple helix concept to local CORS operations. A conceptual framework for sustainable development of CORS infrastructure and data is proposed to support the social economy context of the nation.

Theoretical Foundation for Pricing Climate-Related Loss and Damage in Infrastructure Financing

This paper presents a novel theoretical framework for incorporating climate risks and adaptation investments into infrastructure debt pricing. Utilizing the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), the framework extends the conventional modeling of infrastructure project revenues and costs to include climate risk considerations. It proposes three climate-informed revenue and cost formulations: adjustmentment of mean and standard deviation, incorporation of extreme climate events via Pareto and Poisson distributions, and a climate-informed cost model that includes adaptation investment. The paper demonstrates the application of this model in pricing a loan for a Light Rail Transit project in Costa Rica, introducing the concepts of “flood risk premium” and “adaptation curves”. This study not only offers a novel lens through which to view infrastructure investment under climate uncertainty but also sets the stage for transformative policy and practice in financial risk assessment, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable and resilient infrastructure development.

SUSTAINABLE SMART CITIES: THE ROLE OF FINTECH IN PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainable smart cities are at the forefront of urban development, striving to balance economic prosperity with environmental sustainability. This Review delves into the critical role played by Financial Technology (Fintech) in advancing environmental sustainability within smart city initiatives. Fintech innovations are instrumental in optimizing resource management, enhancing citizen engagement, and fostering collaborative governance models, thereby contributing to the overarching goal of creating sustainable urban ecosystems. Through a historical perspective, this Review traces the evolution of sustainable smart cities, highlighting the transformative impact of technological advancements and the integration of Fintech solutions. From early urban planning concepts to the emergence of smart technologies in the 21st century, the evolution of sustainable smart cities underscores the importance of leveraging innovation to address urban challenges. The rise of Fintech has further accelerated this evolution, offering innovative financial services tailored to support green finance, renewable energy investment, and sustainable infrastructure development. Fintech platforms enable efficient allocation of resources, facilitate transparent and secure transactions, and empower citizens to participate in sustainable initiatives. By integrating Fintech solutions into urban development strategies, cities can unlock new opportunities for environmental sustainability while fostering economic growth and social equity. Looking ahead, the integration of sustainable smart cities and Fintech holds immense potential to address pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. As cities continue to embrace digital transformation and adopt data-driven approaches, the role of Fintech in promoting environmental sustainability will become increasingly crucial. By leveraging historical insights and embracing emerging technologies, cities can chart a path towards a more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable future. This Review underscores the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including governments, businesses, academia, and civil society, to drive collective action and accelerate the transition towards sustainable smart cities.
 Keywords: Sustainable, Smart Cities, Fintech, Promoting, Environmental.

A limit analysis-based topology optimisation method for geostructure design

Geostructures, vital for the progress of civilisation, often face inefficiencies and suboptimal performance due to the lack of optimisation in current designs. Achieving cost-efficiency in geostructure design involves optimising material usage while considering practical construction aspects. While size and shape optimisations are common in geostructure design, the application of topology optimisation remains underexplored. This paper addresses this gap by introducing a novel topology optimisation method for three-dimensional geostructure design. The method integrates mixed limit analysis and density-based topology optimisation theories, allowing for two-material design focused on the ultimate bearing capacity of the geostructure. The innovation resides in aligning the applied external load in the topology optimisation process with the ultimate load that the designed geostructure can sustain. The robustness of the proposed method is exemplified through its application to the design of an embankment and soil foundation, showcasing its potential to enhance the efficiency and performance of geostructures. This research contributes to the advancement of geostructure design practices, ultimately promoting sustainable and resilient infrastructure development.

Hydrogen refueling station location optimization under uncertainty

Hydrogen refueling stations (HRS) are essential for the growth of the hydrogen energy and fuel cell vehicle industry, making the strategic decision of their location and scale critical. This study advances the HRS location optimization problem by integrating network planning and hydrogen scheduling optimization, a novel approach that addresses both where and how big HRSs should be, alongside managing supply relations and hydrogen transportation scheduling. Uniquely, it incorporates uncertainty factors in hydrogen demand, using a two-stage multi-period stochastic programming model designed to minimize both construction and operational costs under variable demand scenarios, while also ensuring customer satisfaction. Our main contributions include the development of this comprehensive model and the introduction of an efficient metaheuristic algorithm to solve it, significantly enhancing computational efficiency. The effectiveness of our approach is demonstrated through numerical experiments, and a sensitivity analysis provides crucial insights, underlining the practical implications for HRS infrastructure development. The findings not only offer a methodological advancement in HRS location selection but also deliver tangible results that can guide industry stakeholders in strategic decision-making, marking a significant step forward in the sustainable development of hydrogen energy infrastructure.

Implementation of Road Equipment Installation in South Sumatera Province (Case Study of Installation of Street Lighting Equipment on the Betung – BTS Section, Palembang City)

Road infrastructure plays a pivotal role in the development and functionality of urban areas, and installing road equipment, such as street lighting, is crucial for ensuring safety and accessibility. This study focuses on the implementation of road equipment installation, with a specific case study of installing street lighting equipment on the Betung – BTS section in Palembang City, South Sumatra Province. The research employs a comprehensive approach, combining technical assessments, project management analysis, and stakeholder engagement evaluations. It examines the planning and design phases of the street lighting installation, considering factors such as traffic patterns, safety requirements, and energy efficiency. The study also investigates the procurement process for the equipment, including vendor selection, quality control, and cost management. Furthermore, the research evaluates the installation process, including on-site challenges, coordination among involved parties, and adherence to established timelines. The effectiveness of the installed street lighting equipment in enhancing road safety and urban aesthetics is assessed through field observations and community feedback. The findings of this study aim to provide insights into the best practices and challenges encountered during the implementation of road equipment projects, mainly focusing on street lighting in the Betung – BTS section. Recommendations derived from the research contribute to optimizing future road equipment installations in South Sumatra Province, emphasizing the importance of efficient project management, technical considerations, and community engagement in achieving sustainable and safe urban infrastructure development.