Resource Sustainable Development Research Articles

Optimizing Micro-CT Resolution for Geothermal Reservoir Characterization in the Pannonian Basin

In the context of global efforts to transition toward renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, geothermal energy is increasingly recognized as a viable and sustainable option. This paper presents a comprehensive assessment derived from a subset of a larger sample collection within the Dunántúli Group of the Pannonian Basin, Hungary, focusing on optimizing micro-computed tomography (µ-CT) resolution for analyzing pore structures in sandstone formations. By categorizing samples based on geological properties and selecting representatives from each group, the study integrates helium porosity and gas permeability measurements with µ-CT imaging at various resolutions (5 µm, 2 µm, and 1 µm). The findings reveal that µ-CT resolution significantly affects the discernibility and characterization of pore structures. Finer resolutions (2 µm and 1 µm) effectively uncovered interconnected pore networks in medium- to coarse-grained sandstones, suggesting favorable properties for geothermal applications. In contrast, fine-grained samples showed limitations in geothermal applicability at higher resolutions due to their compact nature and minimal pore connectivity, which could not be confidently imaged at 1 µm. Additionally, this study acknowledges the challenges in delineating the boundaries within the Dunántúli Group formations, which adds a layer of complexity to the characterization process. The research highlights the importance of aligning µ-CT findings with geological backgrounds and laboratory measurements for accurate pore structure interpretation in heterogeneous formations. By contributing vital petrophysical data for the Dunántúli Group and the Pannonian Basin, this study provides key insights for selecting appropriate µ-CT imaging resolutions to advance sustainable geothermal energy strategies in the region. The outcomes of this research form the basis for future studies aimed at developing experimental setups to investigate physical clogging and enhance geothermal exploitation methods, crucial for the sustainable development of geothermal resources in the Pannonian Basin.

Delineation of groundwater vulnerable zone for sustainable development in the southwestern part of Bihar, India

In the face of the global groundwater crisis and climate change challenges, the groundwater potential (GWP) and quality (GWQ) assessment for tackling the depletion and contamination of aquifers are imperative for India's sustainable development of groundwater resources. This study explores the GWP and GWQ in the southwestern part of Bihar state, located in the declining groundwater of the lower Indo-Gangetic plain, where population growth, rapid urbanization, and escalating agricultural demands have strained aquifer systems. This study uses the Analytical Hierarchy Process and weighted average techniques in the GIS framework to assess groundwater vulnerability. Our results reveal that over 82% of the area exhibits good groundwater potential, except for the southern part. The presence of Vindhyan mountains in the southern part has different geology, elevation, and land use and land cover, leading to poor groundwater potential. Considering the desirable and acceptable limits by BIS (2012) and Who (2022), it has been found that 89% and 18% of the study area falls under the poor to unsuitable groundwater category, affecting a staggering 7.7 million and 1.6 million individuals, respectively despite substantial groundwater potential. Findings from this investigation indicate that groundwater contamination resulted from anthropogenic and geogenic factors; however, it remains suitable for agricultural purposes. Our research will assist policymakers in implementing sustainable management strategies to ensure a lasting and reliable supply for domestic and agricultural uses of groundwater.

Strategi Pengelolaan Budidaya dalam Industri Udang: Tinjauan Produktivitas Budidaya Udang

Vannamei shrimp marketing and cultivation strategies highlight how entrepreneurs can take advantage of existing strengths and opportunities to maximize profits and business growth. Through SWOT analysis, the proposed strategy includes increasing seed production and quality, recruiting experts to increase production and promotion, as well as managing threats and weaknesses with effective strategies. This strategy aims to optimize market segmentation, targeting, positioning and marketing mix, with an emphasis on the importance of adapting to changing business conditions and active support from the government in overcoming regulatory obstacles. This study explores the economic and social impacts of vannamei shrimp farming in Ivory Coast villages, identifying factors that contribute to community well-being, including access to resources, work ethic, and economic motivation, as well as challenges faced, such as lack of financial support from local government . The recommendations given emphasize the importance of government support, improving farmer skills, and further research focusing on the welfare of shrimp farm workers. By implementing effective marketing strategies and paying attention to sustainable development and utilization of coastal and marine resources, this research proposes that vannamei shrimp cultivation can not only develop but also contribute significantly to the economic and social welfare of society.

Pentingnya Pengembangan Sumber Daya Manusia pada Lembaga Pendidikan

Education is the main foundation in building quality human resources. In the current era of global competition, the quality of education is the key to producing the next generation who are competent and competitive. This article aims to find out the importance of human resource development in educational institutions. This study uses a qualitative approach, where data collection uses library research. The main source of data for this research is the research articles published through the Journal and indexed by Google Scholar. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawn. The findings of this study are that the development of educational human resources is the key to ensuring the quality and success of the education system. The development of educational human resources can be carried out through various programs, such as training, workshops, seminars, further studies, mentoring, and certification programs. The government, educational institutions, and professional organizations have an important role in designing and implementing effective and sustainable human resource development programs

Efficient recovery of gallium(Ⅲ) from alkaline solution by electrosorption using biomass-derived carbon aerogel electrodes

The effective extraction of gallium(Ⅲ) from alkaline solutions is a crucial strategy for the sustainable development of gallium resources. However, the conventional adsorption method is limited in terms of both the adsorption capacity and adsorption rate of gallium(Ⅲ). In this study, the optimal nitrogen-doped persimmon-powder activated carbon aerogel (NPAC) was prepared via optimizing synthesis conditions such as hydrothermal time, hydrothermal temperature, mass ratio of zinc chloride, and pyrolysis temperature to investigate the electrosorption effect of NPAC on gallium(Ⅲ). The results demonstrated that the electrode prepared from NPAC（NPAC@CF） exhibited exceptional electrochemical performance, attributed to the synergistic effect of reduced impedance, enhanced reversibility, and controlled capacitance (the capacitive contribution can be accurately quantified). At a bias voltage of 1.2 V, a pH of 11 and an initial concentration of NaGaO2 of 160 mg/L, the NPAC@CF electrode reached an outstanding electrosorption capacity of 250.69 mg g−1 for gallium(Ⅲ), which surpassed that of the conventional adsorption by over twofold. Electrosorption not only notably enhanced the adsorption capacity of NPAC for gallium(Ⅲ) but also elevated the adsorption rate, reducing the adsorption equilibrium time to just 40 min. The electrosorption mechanism of GaO2- on the surface of NPAC@CF was further understood by FTIR and XPS analyses, which mainly involved capacitive adsorption and the interaction of N/O-containing functional groups with GaO2-. Consequently, the electrosorption technology emerges as a promising, novel, and efficient approach for gallium extraction from alkaline solutions.

New Perspectives on the Impact of Human Activities on Natural Resources in Oasis Areas: A Case Study of Oasis in Wuwei, China

An accurate analysis of the relationship between humans and the land in oasis areas is essential for the formulation of policies for differentiated oasis urban development and resource management measures. Therefore, researchers have conducted numerous studies based on the linear relationship between “people and land” in oasis areas. To address this gap, this paper takes the Wuwei oasis as an example and re-examines the impact of human activities on the sustainability of natural capital from a new research perspective (nonlinear perspective). The study selected four variables, namely planted forests, scientific R&D investment, urbanization, and population density, as the main human activities affecting the Wuwei oasis area. The NARDL model, the nonlinear Granger causality test, is employed to investigate the interactions between the variables and the oasis natural capital in both the short and long term. The results indicate the following: (1) During the study period, the consumption of natural capital in the Wuwei oasis has been increasing annually and has long exceeded the local ecological carrying capacity. (2) In the short term, planting forests is the most beneficial human activity. The most beneficial human activity is the planting of trees, while in the long term, scientific R&D investment has the most positive effect on enhancing the oasis’ resource reserves. (3) Urbanization, population density, and planted forest land all have a direct effect on the sustainable development of natural resources in the oasis. The findings of the study indicate that the application of scientific and technological innovation to promote the sustainable development of resources and the environment is a more reliable approach for oasis cities with a high degree of industrialization.

Penataan dan Pengembangan Strategi Promosi Pariwisata Melalui Sosial Media di Gunung Telomoyo

This study aims to assess and analyze the structuring and development of tourism promotion strategies through social media in Mount Telomoyo. The management of Mount Telomoyo tourism has an important role in sustainable development and management of natural and cultural resources. the reason for structuring tourism is for Economic Development. Tourism can be one of the significant sectors of the economy. With a good arrangement, tourism can create jobs, increase community income, and contribute to the economic growth of a region. The methods used in this study are qualitative, data collection, and analysis techniques conducted through observation, interviews, and literature. The research results show that the strategy and promotion aspects of Mount Telomoyo tourism through social media are very important in providing information to tourists to make decisions to visit Mount Telomoyo.

A sustainable utilization approach of waste biomass resources to smart materials for buildings

Resource utilization of solid waste promotes resource conservation, energy transformation and sustainable development. In this study, we developed a synthetic strategy for converting biomass waste, such as waste bamboo powder, into a smart material with thermochromic properties - hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC). The synthesis process includes extraction of cellulose and modification with hydroxypropyl groups. The maximum extraction efficiency of cellulose from raw bamboo powder was up to 48 % by carefully adjusting the reaction conditions including NaOH concentration, reaction time, and treatment temperature. The maximum yield of modification process was achieved to 1.32 g/g by optimizing alkalization temperature, alkalization time, NaOH concentration, propylene oxide concentration, etherification temperature and etherification time. The samples were characterized by a variety of techniques such as FTIR, 1H NMR, XRD, SEM to validate the micro-structure of the extracted cellulose the HPC materials. Moreover, this study explored the potential application of HPC hydrogel in smart window application, and evaluated its building energy saving efficiency under different climate conditions through computational simulation. The corresponding results showed that the HPC hydrogel smart window could have significant energy saving potential compared to ordinary clear glass window. This novel approach of converting waste resources into high valued thermochromic materials for smart windows, not only reduces waste disposal demand for excessive land-use and energy consumption but also shows a positively contributes to sustainable development, environmental protection, as well as energy conservation.

Prediction of land use for the next 30 years using the PLUS model's multi-scenario simulation in Guizhou Province, China

Land use changes significantly impact the structure and functioning of ecosystems. The current research focus lies in how to utilize economic and policy instruments to regulate conflicts among stakeholders effectively. The objective is to facilitate rational planning and sustainable development of land utilization resources. The PLUS model integrates a rule-based mining method for land expansion analysis and a CA model based on multi-type stochastic seeding mechanism, which can be used to mine the driving factors of land expansion and predict the patch-level evolution of land use landscapes. Using the PLUS model, a simulation was conducted to study the future land use distribution in the research area over the next 30 years. Based on land use data from Guizhou Province in 2000, 2010, and 2020, a total of 16 driving factors were selected from three aspects: geographical environment, transportation network, and socio-economic conditions. Four scenarios, namely natural development, urban development, ecological conservation, and farmland rotection, were established. Comparative analysis of the simulated differences among the various scenarios was performed. (1) The overall accuracy of the land use simulation using the PLUS model in the study area was 0.983, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.972 and a FoM coefficient of 0.509. The research accuracy meets the simulation requirements. (2) Through the simulation of four different scenarios, the study investigated the land use changes in Guizhou Province over the next 30 years. Each scenario exhibited distinct impacts on land utilization. Comprehensive comparison of the different simulation results revealed that the farmland protection scenario aligns with the sustainable development goals of the research area. Currently, there is a relative scarcity of research on land use simulation, particularly in model application, for Guizhou Province. This study aims to provide a reference for the rational planning of land resources and high-quality urban construction in Guizhou, promoting the high-quality economic development in tandem with advanced ecological and environmental protection.

Research Hotspots and Trends of Large-Diameter Trees Based on Bibliometric Data

The current challenges facing large-diameter timber forests include low yield and low eco-economic benefit. As a result, the development of large-diameter timber forests has become one of the most important strategies for the development of forestry in China. The present study employed bibliometric analysis and Citespace software v.6.1.R3 to examine the literature from CNKI and WOS databases spanning 2002–2021. This analysis aimed to identify the research hotspots and trends in large-diameter timber trees while providing theoretical support and guidance for developing large-diameter timber forests. The research results showed the following data. (1) The number of articles published increased year by year, approximately 4.8 times in 20 years. (2) The journal “Forest Ecology and Management”, where the number of papers is up to 53, has a significant impact on the field of large-diameter timber research. The Tropical Forestry Experimental Center of the Chinese Academy of Forestry and the Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands possess strong research capabilities, with average citation frequencies of the articles of 26.8 and 51.5, respectively. (3) Research on large-diameter trees focuses on “large-diameter timber cultivation technology and cultivation measures”, “forest conservation management”, “large-diameter timber stand structure”, and “dynamic monitoring of large-diameter timber growth”. “Selection of suitable seed sources”, “Innovation of large-diameter timber cultivation technology”, and “improvement of large-diameter timber forest management mode” are the future research trends of large-diameter trees. In the future, it will be a challenge to realize the sustainable development of large-diameter timber resources. Concurrently, long-term monitoring and scientific management of large-diameter timber forests will be a key issue in promoting the development of large-diameter timber forests.

Effective Strategies for Human Resource Development in the Digital Era

The rapid development of digital technology has brought significant changes in various aspects of life, including the field of human resource management (HR). This article aims to identify and analyze effective strategies that can be applied in human resource development in the digital era. In this context, HR development strategies do not only focus on improving technical skills, but also on developing soft skills which are essential for adaptation in a dynamic work environment. This research uses a qualitative approach with a comprehensive literature study method, reviewing various academic and practical sources. relevant to the topic. The main findings of this study show that the integration of technology in the training and development process, the formation of a work culture that supports innovation, and the implementation of a digital-based performance management system are some of the key effective strategies. Apart from that, the importance of visionary and adaptive leadership has also been identified as a determining factor for success in HR development in the digital era. This article provides insight for HR practitioners and managers to formulate HR development policies and programs that are relevant to the demands of the times. In addition, this research also makes a theoretical contribution by offering a conceptual framework for holistic and sustainable human resource development in the digital era.

Potential and Influencing Factors of Urban Spatial Development under Natural Constraints: A Case Study of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area

As urbanization in China progresses, urban spatial development is transitioning from rapid expansion to more intensive and compact growth. This study examined the role of physical geography and environmental factors in shaping the urban spatial development in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Based on the current natural conditions, we selected evaluation indices from topography, hydrogeology, climatic conditions, and natural disasters. These indices were used to create a carrying capacity and suitability evaluation system for development land under natural constraints. Finally, the spatial development potential of the city was finalized by taking into account the current state of the built-up area of the city. Meanwhile, we employed the Optimal Parameters-based Geographical Detector and assessed the impact of 14 natural factors on the spatial development of urban built-up areas. In 2020, the GBA had 52,168.77 km2 of land suitable for construction, of which 34,241.13 km2 was highly suitable (61.29%) and 17,927.64 km2 was moderately suitable (32.09%). At the Bay Area level, 90.15% of the development potential remains untapped; at the city level, Zhaoqing City has the highest potential at 99.56%, while Macao has the lowest at 26.83%. Key factors influencing urban development include silty sand content, annual average relative humidity, and cumulative temperature above 0 °C, with varying impacts across different urban scales. At the Bay Area level, the silty sand content, annual average relative humidity, and cumulative temperature above 0 °C are the main influencing factors on the spatial development of urban built-up areas; at the city level, the main factors are annual average relative humidity and cumulative active temperature above 0 °C. This study reveals the important influence of natural environmental factors on urban spatial development, which is conducive to promoting sustainable development of land resources in GBA.

Coupling efficiency and spatial dynamic evolution of urban water–energy–food in China–A case of evidence from 94 cities

Quantifying and interpreting the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus is critical to achieve the sustainable development of urban resources. The mismatch between urban water, energy and food allocations is a prominent problem that is particularly acute in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) of China. In this study, models for the WEF coupling degree and coupling efficiency were constructed. The WEF coupling efficiencies of the 94 cities in the YRB from 2011 to 2020 were quantified using a data envelopment analysis (DEA) model. On this basis, the spatial distribution characteristics and evolutionary trends of different urban WEF coupling efficiencies were analysed and explored using an exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) model and a parametric kernel density estimation model. The results show that the energy subsystem constrain the development of the WEF nexus, and the food subsystem, in turn, regulates the development of the WEF nexus. In some years, the phenomenon of ‘resource curse’ occurred, in which the WEF coupling degree increased while the coupling efficiency decreased. Overall, the values of the urban WEF coupling efficiency were low, ranging from 0.5300 to 0.6300, which is not effective. Spatial clustering was detected in the urban WEF coupling efficiency. The clustering types were ‘high–high’ clustering areas in less developed regions and ‘low–low’ clustering areas in developed regions. The two clusters and the median contiguous group had different evolutionary trends. Both efficiency and polarisation increased in the high-clustering group, efficiency improved in the low-clustering group, and a new efficiency pole was formed in the median contiguous group. Among the three grouped cities, we discuss the potential of policies such as cross-city cooperation, intra-city multi-sectoral cooperation and cultivating new central growth cities to improve the WEF coupling efficiency in the YRB.

Effect of Cr2O3 on the break temperature and crystallization behavior of Cr-containing molten titanium slag

In the current study, the effect of Cr2O3 on the break temperature and crystallization behavior of Cr-containing molten titanium slag was investigated. The type, composition, and morphology of crystallized phase were analyzed by FactSage, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). It was found that the break temperature (TBr) of Cr-containing molten titanium slag tended to increase with the increase of Cr2O3 content. When the Cr2O3 content was 4 wt%, the TBr was 1470 °C. With the increase of Cr2O3 content, the Ti-containing phase began to appear at the temperature above the TBr. Moreover, the main crystallized phase that existed at the temperature below the TBr transformed from only anosovite to both anosovite and spinel, indicating that Cr2O3 promoted the precipitation of spinel. The rapid increase in viscosity was mainly determined by the precipitation of anosovite in the slag without Cr2O3. When the Cr2O3 content was 2 wt%, the increased precipitation amount of Ti-containing phase caused the abrupt change in viscosity. As the Cr2O3 content further increased to 4 wt%, the precipitation amounts of anosovite and spinel significant increased, which resulted in the sudden increase in viscosity. This study could provide theoretical support for the comprehensive utilization of Cr-containing molten titanium slag and sustainable development of titanium and chromium resources.

Preface

Proceeding of the 4th International Conference on Environmental Technology and Innovations (ICETI 2023) Dear Colleagues, We are delighted to present the proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Environmental Technology and Innovations (ICETI 2023), which was part of the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science. This event was a collaborative effort involving several prestigious institutions: Ton Duc Thang University, National Cheng Kung University, and Cheng Shiu University in Taiwan; Thammasat University in Thailand; Universiti Sains Malaysia; and Nagaoka and Hokkaido Universities in Japan. ICETI 2023 served as a multidisciplinary platform for experts from academia, industry, and research to discuss and share advancements in Environmental science and technology, Sustainable development and conservation of natural resources, Technologies for adapting to climate change, and Occupational health and safety engineering. The conference proceedings feature a series of peer-reviewed articles that uphold our discussions' high scientific standards and integrity, highlighting our authors’ significant contributions towards innovative practices and policy development in environmental stewardship. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the editorial board and reviewers, whose meticulous work guaranteed the quality of these proceedings. Their expertise was crucial to the success of this publication. We are also grateful to our keynote speakers and all participants for their invaluable insights and contributions, which greatly enriched our conference. Their diverse perspectives and experiences are essential in advancing our sustainable future agenda. Special thanks go to the conference organizers and the support staff at Ton Duc Thang University for their unwavering commitment and effort in making this conference a success. We trust that the insights shared at ICETI 2023 will inspire ongoing research and collaboration within our community. As we look forward to future conferences, we remain committed to advancing the field of environmental technology and innovation. Together, we can continue to make significant strides towards a sustainable and prosperous future for all. Editorial Board Members of the ICETI 2023 - The Manuscript Section for the IOP List of Conference Proceedings is available in the pdf.

The paradigm of tax-reward and tax-punishment strategies in the advancement of public resource management dynamics.

In contemporary society, the effective utilization of public resources remains a subject of significant concern. A common issue arises from defectors seeking to obtain an excessive share of these resources for personal gain, potentially leading to resource depletion. To mitigate this tragedy and ensure sustainable development of resources, implementing mechanisms to either reward those who adhere to distribution rules or penalize those who do not, appears advantageous. We introduce two models: a tax-reward model and a tax-punishment model, to address this issue. Our analysis reveals that in the tax-reward model, the evolutionary trajectory of the system is influenced not only by the tax revenue collected but also by the natural growth rate of the resources. Conversely, the tax-punishment model exhibits distinct characteristics when compared with the tax-reward model, notably the potential for bistability. In such scenarios, the selection of initial conditions is critical, as it can determine the system's path. Furthermore, our study identifies instances where the system lacks stable points, exemplified by a limit cycle phenomenon, underscoring the complexity and dynamism inherent in managing public resources using these models.

Isotope Hydrology and Hydrogeochemical Signatures in the Lake Malawi Basin: A Multi-Tracer Approach for Groundwater Resource Conceptualisation

Reliance on groundwater is outpacing natural replenishment, a growing imbalance that requires detailed and multi-faceted water resource understanding. This study integrated water-stable isotopes and hydrogeochemical species to examine hydrogeochemical processes during groundwater recharge and evolution in the Lake Malawi basin aquifer systems. The findings provide insights into groundwater source provenance, with non-evaporated modern precipitation dominating recharge inputs. Grouped hydrochemical facies exhibit five groundwater water types, prominently featuring Ca-Mg-HCO3. Modelled hydrogeochemical data underscore dominant silicate dissolution reactions with the likely precipitation of calcite and/or high-Mg dolomitic carbonate constrained by ion exchange. Isotope hydrology reinforces water resource system conceptualisation. Coupled isotopic-hydrogeochemical lines of evidence reveal a discernible spatial-seasonal inhomogeneity in groundwater chemical character, revealing a complex interplay of meteoric water input, evaporative effects, recharge processes, and mixing dynamics. Findings show that measurable nitrate across Malawi highlights a widespread human impact on groundwater quality and an urgent need for detailed modelling to predict future trends of nitrate in groundwater with respect to extensive fertiliser use and an ever-increasing number of pit latrines and septic systems arising from rapid population growth. This study not only refined the Lake Malawi basin aquifer systems conceptualisation but also provided isotopic evidence of groundwater and lake water mixing. This study sets a base for groundwater management and policy decisions in support of the Integrated Water Resources Management principles and Sustainable Development Goal 6 objectives for groundwater sustainability in the transboundary Lake Malawi basin.

Sustainable development and formative evaluation of mathematics open educational resources created by pre-service teachers: an action research study

In the post-pandemic world, UNESCO advocates the development of open educational resources (OER) to remedy the financial pressures of students and their families. We thus conducted a dual-cycle action research study aiming to develop a sustainable model with minimal cost for creating OER for secondary school mathematics teachers and students. Our theoretical foundations drew upon existing sustainable models of OER development and experiential learning theory to enhance the efficacy of OER. Formative evaluation techniques were employed in both action research cycles, where pre-service teachers developed the OER and in-service teachers provided suggestions for improvement. In the second cycle, we tested the use of our OER with 35 Grade 11 students to examine both student achievement and retention. The test results showed a significant learning gain (pre-test: Mdn = 2.00; post-test: Mdn = 10.00), which was retained over 2 weeks (delayed post-test: Mdn = 11.00). However, the students’ performance on more advanced questions was not satisfactory. Based on an overall reflection on the study, we proposed a sustainable model of OER development, which leveraged the manpower of pre-service and in-service teachers and incorporated formative evaluation techniques. Furthermore, we provided recommendations for enhancing the future development of OER in mathematics education.

Development and evaluation of fiber-enhanced RAP interlayer for HMA overlay treatment

To scientifically and efficiently utilize reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) generated during asphalt pavement maintenance, and to promote resource recycling and sustainable development, this paper developed and evaluated the Fiber-enhanced RAP interlayer for HMA overlay and preservation treatments. In this paper, RAP interlayer was designed based on the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the pull-out strength and the shear strength of were tested. Through double-objective optimization and analysis, the recommended proportions were determined as 2.22 kg/m2 of rubber asphalt, 10.57 kg/m2 of aggregate, and 30% RAP content. Subsequently, the effects of different basalt fiber contents on the pull-out strength, shear strength, flexural strength, fatigue life, and permeability coefficient of asphalt mixture with interlayer containing RAP were investigated. The results indicated a significant improvement in these properties with an 80 g/m2 basalt fiber content. The performance of asphalt mixture with Fiber-enhanced RAP interlayer was obviously superior to the asphalt mixture with interlayer without fiber and RAP. According to the test results of Digital Image Correlation (DIC), it was found that basalt fibers effectively reduce stress concentration, delaying the initiation and propagation of cracks.

Advancing urban water-energy demand predictions with a rotor hopfield neural network model optimized by contracted thermal exchange optimizer

ABSTRACT The relationship between urban water and energy demand is crucial for resource efficiency, sustainability, and environmental conservation. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change necessitate integrated models that capture the complex interdependencies, feedback loops, and trade-offs between water and energy systems. This research addresses this intricate relationship by developing a modified Rotor Hopfield Neural Network (RHNN) Model using input indicators like population data, GDP, water consumption, precipitation, electricity consumption, wastewater discharge, and industrial coal usage. The model is optimized using a modified metaheuristic, called Contracted Thermal Exchange Optimizer (CTEO), resulting in a comprehensive forecast of urban water-energy demand. The model’s superior efficiency is demonstrated by comparing it with other contemporary methods. Upon comparison with alternative approaches, it is clear that the RHNN/CTEO model surpasses them, showcasing a mean relative error of 1.47% for water usage and 2.60% for energy consumption. This leads to an overall average MRE of 2.03%. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering an advanced model for urban water-energy demand forecasting, providing valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders in making informed decisions related to resource allocation, infrastructure development, and sustainable urban development.