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2025 | Buch

Proceedings of the ICSDI 2024 Volume 3

Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Sustainability: Developments and Innovations

herausgegeben von: Yasser Mansour, Umashankar Subramaniam, Zahiraniza Mustaffa, Abdelhakim Abdelhadi, Mohamed Al-Atroush, Eman Abowardah

Verlag: Springer Nature Singapore

Buchreihe : Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering

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SUCHEN

Über dieses Buch

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the latest research, innovations, and practical applications in the field of sustainability, with a focus on construction materials and their use in building and civil engineering structures. As an outcome of the 2nd International Conference on Sustainability: Developments and Innovations (ICSDI 2024), the book presents a selection of peer-reviewed papers from prominent researchers and engineers around the world. The book covers a broad range of topics, including construction and resilient infrastructure, sustainable manufacturing, industrial ecology, renewable energy, future cities, sustainable built environment design, and policies, regulations, and economics for achieving sustainable development goals. This book will serve as an essential reference for graduate students, engineers, and scientists, as well as industry professionals working in the field of sustainability. The book aligns with the scope of book series scope which aims tocontribute to progress in the construction sciences, techniques, and industries through communication between research and practice. It is also a valuable resource for practitioners and policymakers who are interested in understanding the latest technological advancements and innovations in sustainability to solve real-world problems.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Frontmatter
Numerical Study on the External Impact on Electric Vehicle (EV) Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are reported as the most common batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) due to their long service life, environmentally friendly characteristics, high energy and power density, high energy efficiency, decent high-temperature performance, and low self-discharge. However, LIBs can become a source of danger for drivers and passengers under certain circumstances, such as when a mechanical, electrical, or thermal failure occurs. The failure may end with a thermal runaway, resulting in an explosion, smoke, or fire. Therefore, it is essential to determine the level of safety when using batteries in EVs. In this paper, the external impact on Lithium-ion batteries attached to a vehicle model was investigated numerically. A battery pack consisting of twelve battery modules with dimensions of 456 mm length, 274 mm width, and 71 mm height was placed in the Toyota Camry 2015 car model. Each battery module contains 417 LIB cylindrical cells. As per the Euro New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP), the vehicle model was impacted on a 254 mm diameter rigid pole at 32 km/h. The results revealed that only the battery cells directly subjected to the impact suffered significant damage, while the other cells had no major deformation. The total energy absorbed by the battery components was 2.94 MJ, while the maximum transient penetration was 79.23 mm.

Zahiraniza Mustaffa, Ebrahim Hamid Hussein Al-Qadami, Ameen Topa, Nur Aqila Mohd Hamka, Bentang Arief Budiman
Heritage Sustainable Preservation of Traditions

The recent search for cultural identity in Saudi Arabia has raised many questions about the direction of growth after the post-oil era to afford a sustainable future. Several heritage rehabilitation projects have been launched at various scales in the country to revitalize the value of local culture and traditions. The paper presents research about the urban heritage rehabilitation projects in some selected Saudi Arabia case studies. The research methodology assessed the sustainable criteria and principles adopted during the interventions to enhance the heritage's environmental, ecological, social, cultural, and economic values and target long-term holistic sustainable reuses in compliance with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The assessment was done through a questionnaire spread among various participants in the community, including inhabitants, tourists, governmental offices, and educational institutions. Results show that sustainable reuses have enhanced socio-cultural and economic principles by promoting social cohesion and local investment. Restorative approaches have adapted more to users’ needs, while conservative methodologies have preserved the authenticity of old uses.

Silvia Mazzetto
Critical Success Factors for Enhanced Job Satisfaction in Building Sector Projects of Pakistan

Job satisfaction plays a critical role in the development of any organization because satisfied employees eventually develop a strong loyalty to their company and a commitment to increasing production, which ultimately results in the successful completion of projects within stipulated time, allocated budget. Various researchers have worked on this topic for different professionals, but construction industry labours are given less attention. The purpose of this research is to pinpoint the crucial success variables that have an impact on the workers’ job satisfaction in small-scale construction projects. The information was gathered from the labours using a questionnaire survey. Using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), the Average Index (AI) approach was used to analyze the data gathered from 141 completed surveys. The factors salary on time, salary package or wages, relation with co-workers, facilities at site and workload were topmost critical factors which highly affect the job satisfaction. Whereas job security, leadership style, promotion opportunities and company policies were found to be moderately affecting factors. This study will enable the stakeholders of construction businesses and researchers as guidance to concentrate on the essential aspects that impact work satisfaction of the labour in building sector projects.

Qasim Hussain Khahro, Noor Yasmin Zainun, Shabir Hussain Khahro, Haseeb Haleem Shaikh
Geopolymer Composites for 3D Printing Applications: A Statistical Analysis Approach

In this research, a groundbreaking statistical design methodology is introduced for the optimization of geo-polymer concrete mixes suitable for 3D printing. The study delves into the influence of five key parameters, including fine aggregate size and type, binder type (slag or metakaolin) and ratio, and alkaline solution amount and ratio (NaOH:Na2SiO3). By conducting a full factorial analysis, the individual and interactive effects of these parameters on crucial quality attributes are thoroughly examined. To strike a balance between workability and mechanical properties, a multi-objective optimization problem is formulated. Leveraging established regression models, the optimal combination of factors that satisfy this complex balance is identified, taking into account the study's inherent constraints.

Passant Youssef, Muhammad S. El-Feky, Ahmed M. Ragab, Mohamed I. Serag
Facilitating Agile Applications in Software Projects in Local Saudi Arabia Companies

Saudi Arabia is concentrating on Vision 2030 to further digitalize its economy and become a global technology leader. Modern business development for any organization depends on project management and its applications. Due to the rapid advancement of technology and the continually rising expectations of clients, methods for managing software development projects are always changing. The study focused on enhancing the effectiveness of Agile techniques and methodology in the regional software development projects in Saudi Arabia. It surveyed experts through a Delphi Questionnaire to identify the challenges faced by the local software industry when implementing Agile practices and how to increase adoption. The study highlighted expected changes in management style and organizational culture as major obstacles to overcome. Experts recommended reinforcing the transformation, improving the working environment, and enhancing organizational culture to promote the adoption of Agile techniques and improve the performance of local software development businesses.

Basel Sultan, Zubair Memon, Meshri Alatiki
Machine Learning Based Image Classification with COREL 1K Dataset

Image classification is a critical domain in computer vision with diverse practical applications. Recent advancements in deep learning have shown significant success in this field, with the COREL 1K dataset serving as a standard benchmark for evaluating such algorithms. This paper delves into an extensive investigation of machine learning (ML) based image classification using the COREL 1K dataset. The study comprehensively explores various ML algorithms, including decision trees, k-Nearest Neighbors, and Support Vector Machines (SVM), comparing their performance on the dataset. Additionally, the research scrutinizes the impact of different feature extraction techniques, such as Local Binary Patterns (LBP), color histograms, and Gray-Level Co-occurrence Matrix, on the accuracy of classification. The experimental results on the test set reveal noteworthy insights. Specifically, SVM employing the LBP feature extraction method achieves the highest accuracy at 87.5%. This outcome underscores the efficacy of both feature extraction methods and ML algorithms in the context of image classification on the COREL 1K dataset. By systematically evaluating and comparing these approaches, the study contributes valuable insights into optimizing image classification techniques, offering a nuanced understanding of the interplay between ML algorithms and feature extraction methods for enhanced accuracy in real-world applications.

Ibrohim Abdivokhidov, Mohamed Uvaze Ahamed Ayoobkhan
Factors Affecting Health and Safety Performance in Building Projects of Sindh Pakistan

The construction industry in Pakistan has made a significant contribution to the country’s growth sector, accounting for approximately 2.74% of Pakistan’s GDP. The trend of construction of buildings is on the rise in most major cities. However, it is important to note that this industry is prone to accidents, as workers often operate in unsafe environments. Despite the prevalence of safety issues, the construction industry has yet to prioritize the health and safety of its labor force. The accident rates on construction sites can be primarily attributed to poor safety performance, which is influenced by several factors. In order to enhance safety performance, it is crucial to thoroughly analyze the potential factors associated with Health and safety performance. This research focuses on evaluating the significant factors that affect performance of Health and Safety in building projects of Sindh Pakistan. This study focuses on quantitative approach by using questionnaire survey forms and distributed among participants to collect the data regarding factors that affect it. The received data were analyses through Average Index (AI) method and achieved significant factors was lack of PPE availability, health and safety trainings, accident reporting mechanism, unsafe working conditions, and fall protecting system. This Studies suggest that the construction industry in Pakistan should prioritize the safety of workers by focusing on significant factors and enforcing workplace safety regulations to enhance health and safety conditions in the sector.

Haseeb Haleem Shaikh, Noor Yasmin Zainun, Shabir Hussain Khahro, Qasim Hussain Khahro
Digital Capability as an Enabler of Circular Economy in Saudi Arabia's Manufacturing Sector

Circular Economy (CE) minimizes waste through reduce, reuse, and recycle principles across product lifecycles. Digital technologies like IoT, AI, and big data analytics can significantly enhance CE implementation when integrated into manufacturing operations and decisions. Benefits include resource efficiency, supply chain transparency, predictive maintenance, and circular business models. However, barriers exist like high investment costs and lack of infrastructure. The paper uses mixed methods to explore how digitalization can promote CE practices within Saudi manufacturing. It summarizes the global digitalization trends enabling CE in manufacturing and provides an outlook on Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030 strategy. It also highlights early sustainability initiatives in Saudi manufacturing, key challenges identified via stakeholder engagements, and policy measures needed to incentivize adoption. It concludes that digitalization presents an immense opportunity to advance CE manufacturing in alignment with Saudi’s economic diversification and resilience goals. However, realizing sustainability and competitiveness benefits requires urgent multi-stakeholder collaboration and interdisciplinary perspectives.

Serhan Shaman Alshammari, Uchenna Daniel Ani, Shoaib Sarfraz, Okechukwu Okorie, Konstantinos Salonitis
Natural Ventilation for Transitional Spaces: Case Study of an Airport Terminal

Transitional public spaces, such as airport terminals, consume considerable energy resources and induce a large carbon footprint. The application of passive strategies, particularly the use of natural ventilation, to reduce operational energy use can be an effective strategy to reduce the environmental impacts of these spaces and reduce the capital, maintenance and replacement costs associated with these large spaces. This work investigates the feasibility of natural ventilation as a passive cooling strategy in an airport terminal. This preliminary study identifies opening sizes for a hypothetical airport terminal in Kinmen County, China. It is observed that large openings are required in June compared to July and August. Detailed computational simulations and field measurement studies can help provide more tailored natural ventilation solutions for airport terminal buildings.

Humera Mughal, Anber Rana
Affordable Housing Strategy as a Pillar of Sustainability: The Case of Al Jaradiyah, Riyadh

This paper investigates the living conditions in low-income neighborhoods of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, providing suggestions to improve living standards for current and future generations. The research fits into the Housing Program as part of Vision 2030 to achieve the Vision’s objective for Saudi families to access appropriate housing and go beyond its purposes. In this framework, the contribution presents a mixed-method approach through measurable data, observational research, and critical analysis conducted on Al Jaradiyah, a low-income district of Riyadh, aimed at identifying current limits and future possibilities to ensure a better life for people in their residential houses and the urban spaces of the neighborhood. Through the analysis of the built and unbuilt environment of the district, it was possible to define strategic guidelines to lead the neighborhood to adopt sustainable solutions to improve the living conditions of households. The research aims to provide recommendations to help government institutions, policymakers, and architects create affordable and sustainable housing solutions that meet the needs of low-income families in Riyadh.

Monica Moscatelli, Ranem Mazen Abduljabbar
Biophilic Urbanism for Sustainable and Resilient Neighborhood. The Case of Al Murabba, Riyadh

Incorporating biophilic design principles into Saudi neighborhoods aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by promoting sustainability, enhancing the quality of life, diversifying the economy, and embracing innovation. By creating more human-centric and nature-integrated environments, Saudi Arabia can make its cities and neighborhoods more attractive, sustainable, and resilient in the face of future challenges. This research explores the potential benefits of integrating biophilic design principles into urban areas of Riyadh neighborhoods, providing simple strategies to achieve positive benefits of nature interaction into human life biophilic urbanism design. This study applied a mixed methods approach to collect data, including analysis of existing literature reviews on biophilic urbanism, site visits and observation, and questionnaires and interviews in the Al Murabba neighborhood of Riyadh to identify some strategies to implement the biophilic design in the urban areas. The findings highlight the importance of integrating biophilic design principles into urban areas of Al Murabba neighborhoods to improve the quality of life, and enhance cultural preservation and tourism development. The research provides recommendations and strategies to create more nature-based, climate-positive, sustainable urban environments. This strategy can be generalized and applied in other neighborhoods of Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries to implement a nature connection to create sustainable, healthy, and livable spaces for the future.

Monica Moscatelli, Njoud Albrahim, Razan Aldawood
Sustaining the Legacy of Langkasuka Through the Architectural Design of Long-Roofed Masjids

The long-roofed masjid is unique and vernacular to the region once known as the Langkasuka Kingdom. The long-roofed masjid has a rectangular plan with long ridges and distinctly differs from the pyramid-roofed masjids commonly found throughout Southeast Asia. In considering the sustainable development goals (SDG) for communities and heritage, the long-roofed masjid should be included in preserving the identity and culture of the region. The paper highlights the character of the long-roofed masjid to expose and preserve the form that is no longer recognized or associated as a vernacular form in the region. The objectives are to underline the characteristics and form of existing vernacular masjid and houses to deduce the regional identity of the Langkasuka region. The analysis dissected the architecture of long-roofed masjids into several typologies according to the roof design. The samples for the study are collected through site visits and supported by literature reviews, and a visual analysis is performed to extract the unique characteristics of the masjids. The results suggested that cultural sustainability is manifested in the use of the balai lintang and serambi in the long-roof masjid. In addition, environmental sustainability is seen in the architectural components and construction incorporated. Due to its cultural and environmental significance, the long-roofed masjid architecture needs to be preserved as a manifestation of the beliefs, way of life, or culture of the Langkasuka kingdom. The legacy of the long-roofed mosque from the area can reveal the identity or ancestry of a community that lived there in the past.

Noor Hanita Abdul Majid, Siti Aisyah Muhammad
Mechatronic Design and Development of Autonomous Mobile Robotics System for Road Marks Painting in Smart Cities

This paper presents the development of autonomous mobile robotics system for road marks painting in smart cities. The current road marks painting is manually applied on the road worldwide, and the quality of construction depends mostly on the experience of operators. To address such an issue, this study focusses on developing an autonomous mobile robotics system for road marks painting that can replace or assist traditional manual painting for new or renovated roads. This study uses the turtlebot3 wheeled mobile robot platform along with laser in Robot Operating System (ROS) software platform. The path planning of the autonomous mobile robot is accomplished using a combination of A* algorithm for global planning and the Dynamic Window Approach (DWA) algorithm for local planning. A simulation study on the road environment is developed using the ROS platform to test and verify the feasibility of the proposed robotic road marks painting system. The simulation is performed through applying the road marks painting on three types of road conditions, namely, straight, turning, and roundabout roads. The path planning using A* algorithm and DWA algorithms has been successfully validated in a simulated environment, demonstrating its feasibility and potential. Results show that the robot was able to apply road marks on the middle of the roads in both straight, turning, and roundabout roads.

Chao Ma, Mohammed A. H. Ali, Yusoff Nukman, Bushroa Abd Razak
Impact of Integrated ICT Approaches in Improving Urban Mobility in Riyadh City

Urban mobility stands as a pivotal aspect in the development of cities, significantly influencing the overall quality of life. Nowadays, many cities recognize the importance of smart mobility in the context of smart cities, leading them to invest in transportation systems and infrastructure to address traffic challenges. The rapid progress in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has played a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of mobility and addressing critical issues in the field. ICT in smart mobility aims to find innovative and sustainable approaches, supported by advanced technology and proactive citizens’ behaviors. Accordingly, this paper aims to study the concept of smart mobility and the impact of ICT as one of its areas on reducing traffic congestion and developing traffic systems in Riyadh city. Moreover, the paper sheds light on governmental initiatives aimed at fostering connected, safe, and sustainable urban mobility. The study uses quantitative techniques to achieve its goals by collecting data about ICT implications, developing questionnaires, and analyzing its data to measure the quality and most effective ICT system. The study’s findings present the crucial role of government in developing strategies to overcome traffic problems. In addition, the results reflect the main aspects and design criteria that contribute to enhancing the performance and quality of mobility systems in megacities and generating sustainable mobility.

Rasha A. Moussa
Reshaping Architectural Identity in Contemporary Mosques. A Comparative Analysis in Riyadh

Saudi Vision 2030 is planning to preserve the Kingdom’s cultural identity by sustaining and improving 130 historical mosques that emphasize Saudi’s rich culture and unique architecture and represent the beauty of Islam within such spaces. This research highlights the importance of architectural identity in historical mosques in which “Masjids”, the place for worship and prayer, served the Muslim people and provided them with all the required services needed in one place to have a community engagement. Nowadays, the purely aesthetic aspects of architecture prevail in contemporary mosques, relating less and less to their history and Muslim community. The research applied a qualitative methodology, selecting four case studies of mosques in Riyadh. The four case studies were analyzed according to four criteria that characterized the architectural identity of a mosque: form, program, structure, and lighting. The comparison of the case studies through critical analysis underlined the loss of the identity of the contemporary mosques, demonstrating how architecture attentive to place and history, can represent an opportunity to provide guidelines for architects facing today the design of contemporary mosques. This methodology can be applied more broadly across Saudi Arabia.

Mariam Maatouk, Monica Moscatelli
Enabling Smart Sensing Systems with Thread Protocol for IoT Connectivity and Cloud Integration

The Internet of Things (IoT) has opened exciting possibilities for creating smart sensing systems that can collect and process data from various sensors. These sensors are often connected to a network of devices, which then send this real-time data to cloud servers. This technology finds application in diverse fields, from home automation to smart cities, offering improved efficiency, cost savings, and safety enhancements. Building effective smart sensing systems comes with specific requirements, with one crucial element being the communication protocol. For this purpose, we present a Thread protocol-based smart sensing system here. Thread is an IEEE 802.15.4-based wireless communication protocol designed for smart sensing and home applications. Thread protocol offers several advantages over other IoT protocols, like mesh network design, support for IPv6, low power usage, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for our smart sensing systems. In this work, we have successfully designed and implemented a smart sensing system that leverages the Thread protocol, and further connects to an IoT cloud. The paper shows the practical use of technology, also offering insights into its performance.

Khalid Omar Dahyan, Sohaib Bin Altaf Khattak, Moustafa M. Nasralla, Maged Abdullah Esmail, Mudessar Iqbal
3D Printing Technology for Construction: A Structural Shift in Building Infrastructure

The construction sector, a cornerstone of infrastructural development, has historically been characterized by set processes and practices. However, the emergence of 3D printing technology is poised to bring in a new era of construction, challenging these established conventions. This study provides an in-depth exploration of the numerous consequences of 3D printing within the construction arena. We explore the various advantages afforded by this technology, from rapid prototyping and greater customization to considerable reductions in material waste and labor expenses. Concurrently, we address the challenges that industry professionals may experience, including material constraints, structural integrity concerns, and the need for new regulatory frameworks. Through a comprehensive assessment of real-world applications and case studies, we underline the practical consequences of 3D printing on modern construction projects. By comparing traditional construction approaches with this new technology, we hope to highlight the transformative and competitive potential of 3D printing, emphasizing its role in defining the future landscape of the construction sector.

M. Y. Laissy, H. F. Rashed
Integrating Cob-Earth material and Sand-Filled Plastic Bottles to Combat Environmental Challenges: A Sustainable Construction Solution

With all the environmental threats that the world is facing by the day, the need for solutions that address such challenges keeps arising more than any previous time. It has become quite factual now that the harms directly caused by the construction industry and plastic waste generation significantly represent the highest negative influence on the environment. Cement-based concrete structures and their carbon emissions remain the highest contributors to the global predicament. Similarly, plastic bottle waste still presents a daily risk of worsening the solid waste situation. Therefore, innovative solutions that merge more than one environmental dilemma together become essential to prioritize. With regards to the growing problem of plastic bottle waste and the reliance on cement-based construction methods, this paper seeks to address this aspect. The research's primary contribution is the thorough testing and evaluation of the proposed cob and plastic bottle combination to proceed with a larger prototype. An array of investigations has been included to determine the weight-carrying capability and load distribution within a prototype that includes different plastic bottle patterns. The samples with the cob mix and designed bottles pattern projected the highest load resistance subjected to more than 4800 kgs which exceeded the results of the other tested samples and was accordingly selected to be used in the larger prototype. Furthermore, this study explores the utilization of cob earth material to create an exterior finishing layer in an effort to lessen the additional need for cement.

Mayar M. Khairy, Zeinab M. Ahmed, Ahmed K. Abodonya, Omar El Kadi, Khaled A. Tarabieh, Khaled Nassar, Ezzeldin Yazeed
Assessing the Impact of Sand and Dust Storms on Residents’ Health in the State of Kuwait

Wind plays a critical role in desert ecosystems as it transports fine soil particles and triggers sand and dust storms (SDSs). These SDSs can have a significant impact on environmental quality and adverse effects on human health, including pulmonary, ocular, and skin diseases. Kuwait frequently experiences dust events, totaling approximately 255.5 days annually. Dust is a prominent weather-related issue in Kuwait and, along with other harsh climatic conditions, is a primary factor influencing various health issues. This study aimed to investigate and monitor dust events in Kuwait over a five-year period (2019–2023) and assess their impact on residents. Data on dust events were obtained from the Kuwait Meteorological Department. In addition, 1000 questionnaires were distributed to Kuwaiti residents, either remotely or in person, to assess the impact of dust on residents’ health. The meteorological data showed that a significant portion of each year experienced haze, with dust storms, blowing dust, and dust haze occurring predominantly in May, June, and October, respectively. Among the 206 respondents to the survey, 63.59% had experienced bronchial asthma, and their children experienced asthma and allergies in parallel with dust events. The study results can be used to raise awareness among decision-makers and guide the design of eco-friendly cities to avoid the negative impacts of dust on society, the economy, and residents’ health. Furthermore, solutions are needed for existing cities to avoid dust hazards.

Danah Al-Enezi, Al-Anood Al-Enezi, Ali Al-Dousari, Hasan Aldashti
Numerical Approach for 3D Moldboard Plow Design

The choice of the right form of the moldboard plow design is often necessary to determine the tillage quality and to check its energy consumption. In this paper, two analytical methods based on the mathematical formulation of geometrical parameters were combined to design 3D shapes of moldboard plows simply and accurately. The impact of the geometrical parameter (θ) in the Bulgakov model, with four coefficients (a1, a2, a3, a4) of its polynomial equation, is investigated to show its dependence concerning the height (Z) of the moldboard plow. This study shows that for higher values of coefficients (a1, a2, a3, a4), a rearward slight rotation at the upper part of the moldboard was observed. Furthermore, by varying the coefficient of higher degree (a4), the variation of curvature will take place far from the tip of the plow.

Imen Lahmar, Ayadi Ibrahmi, Houssam Chouikhi, Hatem Bentaher
Exploring Community Needs in Saudi Arabia: The Vibrant Artistic Context of Qiddiya

In this age controlled by technology, art has an important role in giving one an identity; its significance is proven by how it improves society and unites rather than separates while accepting diversity in all its forms. Art is an important aspect of our everyday lives; it opens our minds to new things by fueling the imagination; it is a form of communicating one’s beliefs and story; therefore, an art community is needed to fulfill the community’s needs. The need for art dates back to humans’ early stages, where artworks described history. Art lies in all our surroundings, and it is a fundamental component of contemporary society. The paper methodology is based on an extended design competition to compare the needs of growing communities in various capitals and countries; the need to achieve sustainable social interaction has driven the idea of embedding art into community centers to enhance the value of social interaction and union. The analyses of case studies and comparisons on common parameters conducted in Saudi Arabia have guided the selection of a preferable location for an art community center in Qiddiya, the entertainment city under construction where art is one of the main pillars and where the community center project has great importance and potential. The importance of art in people's lives has grown along with society's rapid development. There has always been a need to expand and advance people's creativity. As a result, the proposed design outcomes explore the opportunities offered by the vibrant Saudi Arabia Society, which is currently facing a new era of growth in alignment with Saudi National Vision 2030.

Silvia Mazzetto, Hessa Alduraibi
Work Culture in the Traditional Street: A Case of Chitaroli, Nagpur, India

Indian streets exude vitality, energy, and variety owing to a rich work culture, authenticity, and reliability. Core city’s traditional streets like Lohaoli, Chunaoli, and Kiranaoli based on metal-work, lime-work, and grocery shopping respectively, possess a distinct image due to the predominant occupation amidst the residential spaces. This study focuses on Chitaroli, an urban street in Nagpur, renowned for idol and sculpture-making. The street culture is studied considering (a) socio-economic (context, work culture, people, and economy); (b) spatial qualities (land use, and access); and (c) place-making aspects (condition of buildings, residential unit, and sociability) through the spatial analysis and the household survey. The research identifies issues such as congestion, traffic problems, poor housing and sanitation conditions, degenerating architecture, declining realms, and economic challenges. The recommendations are presented to regenerate and conserve Chitaroli, with the study framework offering insights for restoring other streets and reinstating occupants and their occupations.

Sarika Pankaj Bahadure
Well-Confined Concrete Columns Reinforced with BFRP and GFRP Rebars Under Concentric Loading

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) has gained considerable interest as a substitute for steel reinforcement, primarily because of its corrosion-resistant nature. Hence, it is beneficial to reinforce structural members, such as columns, with FRP instead of steel to minimize their degradation. This study reports on the behavior of four concrete columns with FRP and steel rebars confined with steel ties subject to concentric loading. Basalt FRP (BFRP) and Glass FRP (GFRP) rebars were considered. Steel ties were provided at 60 mm spacing to significantly confine the columns. All the columns were square and had 180 mm cross-section dimensions and 1000 mm height. The type and diameter of longitudinal rebars varied between the columns. Concrete crushing governed the failure of BFRP and GFRP Reinforced Concrete (RC) columns, while steel yielding caused the failure in steel-RC columns. The axial load capacity was similar for BFRP and GFRP-RC columns, with only an 11% difference. Nevertheless, the difference was only 2% for the BFRP-RC column in comparison with the steel-RC column of equivalent strength. Moreover, an enhancement of about 10% was demonstrated for the axial load capacity of steel-RC columns, when increasing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio by 1.4%.

Nour Ghazal Aswad, Khaled Obeidat, Farid Abed
Investigating the Impact of ESG Index Inclusion Announcement on the Stock Market Performance of the Firm: An Event Study

The environmental, social, and governance index has seen significant growth in recent times as a representative of responsibility, transparency, and social accountability with its impact evident in the firm's stock price (Engelhardt et al., 2021). This event study investigates the influence of the inclusion of Indian firms into the Environment, Social, and Governance Index (BSE, ESG index) on their stock market performance. A total of 200 firms form the basis of the investigation for the study including firms from the BSE ESG index to form the sample group and another group, based on market capitalization, asset size, and industry type as the control group. The study uses an independent sample t-test to evaluate the difference in the stock market performance of the sample and control group, on a daily basis (+10), weekly basis (+10), monthly basis (+9), and quarterly basis (+4), post inclusion in ESG index. The results suggest a substantial difference in the stock market performance of the sample and control group post-announcement. The difference diminishes as we go farther from the announcement date of inclusion in the case of weekly and quarterly comparisons. The inferences from the binary logistic regression model also suggest that a significant positive effect of ESG index inclusion was found on the stock market performance of the firm on a daily and weekly basis which is not true for monthly and quarterly basis. This implies a notable and immediate change in stock market performance due to the inclusion of the ESG index on a daily and weekly basis. However, this effect is not observed over the intermediate term, specifically on a monthly and quarterly basis. The results are in concurrence with the existing research suggesting that inclusion in the ESG index, projects a company as better performing, enhances its reputation, leads to good word of mouth, and hence reflects in the stock price of the firm (Sahut and Pasquini-Descomps, 2015; Shanaev and Ghimire, 2022).

Ajaz ul Islam, Rizwana Khurshid
Scheduling Parallel Machine Robotic Cells with Energy Consumption Objective

We consider a flexible manufacturing cell composed of several parallel machines and a material handling robot. The robot is responsible for material transportation between the input/output buffers and the machines as well as loading and unloading of these machines. The system produces multiple parts. The part input sequence, the sequence of robot's transportation and loading/unloading activities, and the speed of the robot in these activities are the decisions of the problem. These decisions affect both the production rate and the energy consumption during the moves of the robot. The objective is to complete the production of the parts within a given time limit with minimum energy consumption. We develop a mathematical programming formulation and test its performance with a computational study. We also demonstrate the tradeoff between the production time and the energy consumption through numerical examples.

Hakan Gultekin, Riadh Zaier, Amur Al-Yahmedi
From Scraps to Soil Enrichment: Rethinking Food Waste and Sludge for a Greener Agriculture

Food waste is a critical global issue with profound implications for the environment, economy, and society. Annually, an astonishing amount of approximately 1.3 billion metric tons of food is wasted worldwide, accounting for about one-third of all food produced for human consumption. This excessive waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change, while also straining waste management systems and depleting limited landfill capacities. Moreover, food waste perpetuates social inequalities and intensifies food insecurity, impacting millions of people globally. In response to this problem, this research endeavor focuses on harnessing the untapped potential of food waste from University Technology Petronas (UTP) cafeteria and sludge from the Sewage Treatment Plant. Its objective is to develop an affordable composter machine called “Eco-Composter” that can efficiently convert the aforementioned substances (including food waste and sewage sludge) into nutrient-rich compost which can be used as an alternative to commercially available fertilizer. This would be achieved through a streamlined methodology involving the collection, processing, and analysis of food waste, followed by the construction and testing of the composter to ensure its effectiveness in sustainable compost production. By implementing advanced techniques, including anaerobic digestion, and composting, these waste resources are economically converted into a valuable product, fostering sustainable agricultural practices, reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers, and providing support to local farming communities with limited financial resources.

Muhammad Faseeh Memon, Shamsul Rahman Mohamed Kutty, Zubair Ahmed Memon
Exploring Unconventional Structural Alternatives Incorporating Waste and Recycled Materials for Low-Cost and Low Carbon Emissions Housing

Reinforced concrete skeleton is the most commonly used structural system for construction worldwide. However, it is not the most eco-friendly alternative; therefore, finding innovative green alternatives is a necessity amidst the climate change effects the world is currently facing. In addition, construction costs are increasing making it a challenging to fund housing projects for the low-income. Accordingly, four building alternatives were examined for constructing a single-story building of a small room to determine the most eco-friendly and cost-effective construction materials. Alternative 1 is cement bricks masonry parabolic vault, alternative 2 is cement masonry units for walls and structurally insulated panels (SIPs) for roof, alternative 3 is SIPs for the walls and the roof, and alternative 4 is the typical reinforced concrete skeleton with cement bricks for masonry. Each alternative is investigated for its structural integrity and soundness, carbon emissions per unit area, estimated construction cost and building envelope conductance. It was determined that alternative 3 is the most environmentally friendly as it only emits 66.29 kgCO2e/m2, while alternative 1 was the least, emitting 753.49 kgCO2e/m2. However, alternative 1 is shown to have the least construction cost of 1730.78 EGP/m2, while alternative 3 has the highest cost of 6150 EGP/m2. Finally, in terms of thermal conductance, alternative 1 had the highest of 12.35 W/K.m2 while alternative 3 had the lowest of only 0.59 W/K.m2

Mohamed Elnakeb, Marina Moawad, Mohamed Ashmawy, Marwan Shawki, Mohamed Atef, Ehab Abdelhamid, Mohamed Darwish, May Haggag, Donia Eldwib, Khaled Nassar, Maram Saudy, Safwan Khedr, Minas Guirguis, Mohamed Naguib Abouzeid
Integrating Advanced Healthcare AI into Higher Education of Smart Cities: Skin Cancer Classification with Custom Vision Transformers

In today's smart cities, it's essential to combine advanced healthcare with education. Our research introduces a groundbreaking method for detecting skin cancer, using a new type of artificial intelligence called a Vision Transformer. This model analyzes a wide range of skin images from different people and accurately identifies skin cancer, especially melanoma and benign moles. Moving beyond traditional techniques like convolutional neural networks, our approach uses advanced attention mechanisms to improve accuracy by focusing on key areas in the skin images. The model has been thoroughly tested with specific criteria to ensure it can reliably detect skin cancer while reducing errors. This research is particularly important as skin cancer rates are increasing worldwide, and early, accurate detection is vital for saving lives. Our study focuses on providing assistance to healthcare practitioners for skin disease diagnostics as well as to assist in providing training and education to healthcare researchers. The proposed method outperforms in terms of ROC curve analysis.

Syed Muhammad Usman, Syed Nehal Hassan Shah, Nevena Dicheva, Ikram Ur Rehman, Samia Zaib
Future Trends and Opportunities of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in the Resilience of Interdependent Critical Infrastructure Networks in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Critical infrastructure networks (CINs), such as power and water networks, are the backbone of society and the economy. However, they are vulnerable to disruptions, such as component failures and natural disasters. These disruptions can spread across CINs, causing significant socioeconomic losses. Decision-makers face the challenge of protecting CINs before disruptions and restoring their functions afterward, considering interdependencies and uncertainties. Current methods struggle to model big data, complex interactions, and multilayer dependencies between CINs. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications can be used to overcome these challenges. AI and ML can generate sophisticated failure prediction models using historical failure data, maintenance data, and current risk indicators, and can classify critical CINs components and their risk levels using multisource data-aggregation frameworks. The Saudi Vision 2030, the strategic roadmap launched by the Saudi government, aims to create a resilient and sustainable infrastructure. Using AI and ML to strengthen the resilience of CINs can help achieve this goal. This article explores trends and opportunities in this area that align with the Vision to help practitioners in the Kingdom position Saudi Arabia as a leader in the field.

Basem A. Alkhaleel
Reconciling Urban Resilience and Increasing Digitization-Exploring Opportunities and Threats in Jeddah

Urban cities undergo many significant transformations with population growth that lead to the increment of goods and services production, which result in the urban shocks and stresses. As a matter of fact, urban resilience embodies a city's capacity to absorb and face these challenges in order to transform them sustainably through the best practices. Such strategies, including digitization or using technology, can enhance and fortify urban resilience, notably in big or major cities like Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This study aims mainly to establish a comprehensive strategy that can assist in addressing Jeddah's environmental vulnerabilities, digitalization, planning, and development which are mainly required to enhance future resilience and sustainability of the city. Employing qualitative research and thematic analysis, the study identified environmental potential threats which include: climate change, heatwaves, flooding, pollution. Such threats play a major role in hindering and affecting Jeddah's resilience. Recommendations include leveraging digital technologies such as geographic information systems and building information management systems.

Muroj Talal Alghafari, Jawad Alsuliman
From Polymeric Waste to Disposable Electrochemical Environmental Sensors for Water Quality Monitoring

One of the crucial elements embedded within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN) is SDG 6, which focuses on ‘clean water and sanitation.‘ This goal underscores the intrinsic human entitlement to safe and economically viable drinking water. Evaluating the conditions of accessible water and identifying the levels of pollutants yields meaningful insights about water quality and risk assessment. It aids in pinpointing pollution sources, evaluating impacts on the environment, and steering efficient strategies for water resources management. This study details the application and adaptation of discarded polymer or plastic materials as immobilization matrices for 2D materials, e.g., pristine or metal-doped graphitic C3N4 nanosheets (gCN). The outcome is the creation of single-use electro-chemical environmental sensors, specifically designed for monitoring water quality and assessing associated risks. These sensors showcase exceptional capabilities in recognizing pollutants, demonstrating heightened sensitivity toward different anionic dyes, and achieving sub-micromolar detection limits. By employing disposable environmental sensors to monitor pollutant concentrations in surface waters, governing bodies can proactively implement measures to mitigate or eliminate contaminants. This proactive approach plays a pivotal role in ensuring the availability of clean and secure water for communities. Consequently, the vigilant tracking of pollutant concentrations emerges as an indispensable aspect of sustainably managing water resources, aligning with the realization of SDG 6. This proactive approach contributes significantly to the continuing assurance of safe and clean drinking water accessibility for everyone.

Taimur Ali, Nimra Bashir, Adnan Mujahid, Tajamal Hussain, Adeel Afzal
A New Distributed Approach to Leveraging AI for Sustainable Healthcare in Smart Cities

This paper introduces an approach to harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the sustainability of healthcare systems in smart cities. The convergence of AI and healthcare holds immense potential to address existing challenges. This study explores the unification of Internet-of-Medical-Things (IoMT) framework and Federated Learning (FL) the to foster sustainable healthcare. The focus is on privacy-preserving healthcare data analysis by leveraging FL to process data at its source, thus reducing communication costs while minimizing the risk of transfer of sensitive data. This approach is applied within the IoMT ecosystem, optimizing and processing COVID-related CTS through FL. The process involves training local models, which are then aggregated using Federated Averaging (FedAvg) to create a comprehensive global model. The proposed approach ensures model accuracy over time and upholds data privacy, which is crucial for sustainable healthcare. Results show that with 10–20 clients, the model achieves a global accuracy between 94.5% and 94.7%, demonstrating robustness and scalability.

Muhammad Babar, Basit Qureshi
Sustainable Product Development: Integrating Market Dynamics and Consumer Behavior in Design Strategy

This paper presents an innovative approach to sustainable product development, emphasizing the integration of market characteristics, consumer behavior, and competitive analysis into the design process. The study delves into existing literature, identifying gaps in the traditional methodologies that often overlook the nuanced interplay between market forces and customer preferences. Our findings suggest that sustainability in product development is not merely an outcome of environmentally conscious practices but also a result of meticulous design and strategic market positioning. By analyzing the relationship between price, quality, and consumer demand, we develop a demand zone estimation model that predicts customer choices based on performance metrics, leading to informed design decisions that align with market expectations. The proposed model is distinct in its simplicity and practicality, offering a bridge between theoretical constructs and real-world applications. We conclude that sustainable products are a convergence of optimized design, market-centric pricing, quality considerations, and an understanding of consumer behavior. This holistic approach not only enhances the viability of products in competitive markets but also contributes to the broader goals of sustainability by fostering products that consumers are drawn to and value. Through this research, we aim to contribute a robust framework to the field of sustainable product development, offering a comprehensive strategy that reconciles business objectives with consumer needs and environmental aspects.

Mahmood Al Kindi
Reconciling Sustainability with Competition Laws—Greenhushing, Greenwashing and Sustainability Agreements

When corporate entities act together to achieve sustainable goals, they violate competitions laws. This so-called cartel agreements are prohibited by the competition laws across the globe if they make the product or services more expensive to consumers. Agreements between companies to make their products and services more sustainable will regularly increase their price for end consumers, at least in the short term. Only recently states started reacting with legislative reforms to include sustainability in their competition equation. Any kind of more lenient competition law policy potentially opens the door to legalizing greenwashing by companies. It creates a need for parallel legislation against unfair commercial practices that clearly prohibits greenwashing activities. Saudi Arabia has a relatively new competition law based on EU law as a role model, but without any explicit exception for sustainability agreements. The Saudi Anti-Fraud Law and the first draft of Consumer Law also do not clearly prohibit greenwashing. The paper discusses which model should be followed for reform that allows sustainability agreements and fights against greenwashing.

Zlatan Meskic
Design of Wind Energy Harvester Using Piezoelectric Elements

Piezoelectric wind energy harvesters (PWEHs) have rapidly gained recognition as a promising technology for self-powered devices. These devices utilize the unique properties of piezoelectric materials to convert wind energy into electrical energy, providing a sustainable and renewable power source. In this study, we present a design for a PWEH employing a flag-like structure and experimentally investigate its performance under various wind conditions. The relationship between output power and external load resistance is also investigated. Our research reveals that the proposed PWEH has a cut-off wind speed of 1.4 m/s, beyond which it can efficiently harness wind energy. Under optimal conditions, the PWEH achieves a peak power output of 21 mW when exposed to a wind speed of 5.5 m/s. This level of performance is attained by utilizing an external load resistance of 1 MΩ. The choice of external load resistor was found to have a significant impact on the output power, emphasizing the importance of load resistor selection in maximizing their performance. These findings demonstrate the potential of PWEHs as a sustainable energy solution for self-powered devices.

Ali Al Diwani, Mohammed Al-Suhayyih, Nassar Alshawareb, Hamza Altaha, Hussain Altammar
Developing and Testing Eco-Friendly Lightweight Foam Concrete with Fly Ash

Lightweight Foam Concrete (LFC) has become an attractive construction material, especially for non-structural components since it has less density and better acoustic and thermal insulation properties. However, compared with normal-weight concrete, it has lower mechanical properties that can be improved by adding supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash. This research paper describes the experimental work done to develop LFC mixes with various percentages of foam and fly ash. It also investigates some of their physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. The developed LFC mixes consist of sand, cement, foam, water, and fly ash. The foam amount varies from 10 to 40% of the total mix volume with an increment of 10%. The fly ash partially replaces sand by 10, 20, and 30% of its weight. Test results show that density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity decrease as foam amount increases. Partially replacing sand with fly ash improved the compressive strengths but increased densities and thermal conductivities. For the LFC mixes with 10 and 20% foam, the densities, compressive strengths, and thermal conductivities increased as the fly ash amount increased up an optimum value (ranging between 10 and 20% of fly ash) and then decreased at 30% fly ash. However, for the 30% foam mixes, the densities, compressive strengths, and thermal conductivities continued to increase as the fly ash content increased.

Sherif El Gamal, Al-Adhraa Al-Zakwani
The Role of the Data Analytics and Digital Twin for Establishing Intelligent City

The intelligent city is a network of interconnected devices which gather, store, and share its data in order to improve operational efficiencies of the cities’ functions, share the information with the public, and provide a better quality of governmental services and citizen welfare. To design resource-efficient and livable cities for its citizen, it is required to collect all of these data as the common ground of important information and lifeblood of the intelligent cities. These data coming from different sources such as: Data of the traffic, Data of the geospatial, data of the foot traffic, vehicles’ numbers in the city, Statistics data of the crime, etc. This paper aims to focus on data analytics’ and digital twin role that help cities to become with zero of carbon, improve the urban of mobility, manage the infrastructure better in a secure, and provide sustainable solutions, the paper will discuss the way for establishing these data through three main layers: The infrastructure of the technology used, devices and the applications used of the data and its capabilities, and the usage of these data and the interact with its users, and how to manage all of these with the change of users’ behaviors. Research findings confirms the contribution of the digital technology and the importance of sustainable solutions towards better enhancement of the quality of life.

Walaa Metwally, Vitta Ibrahim
Vibration Control of Offshore Steel Wind Turbines

Offshore steel wind turbines (OWT) are a popular choice for generating renewable energy due to higher offshore wind speeds leading to significantly increasing amount of produced energy. Offshore steel wind turbines are susceptible to vibration problems considering persistent wind and wave forces. This can lead to reduced performance and even failure. The traditional support of wind turbines is the use of tubular steel sections characterized by low stiffness and damping leading to excessive vibrations. Many vibration control practices are available including the use of tuned-type dampers, e.g., mass dampers, and magnetorheological dampers. However, their use is challenged by deformation limits which lessens damper stroke and damping effect. This paper investigates and numerically evaluates current applications to reduce vibration problems. Focus is given to areas in Saudi Arabia that can lead to highest energy harvest. The finite element method is employed to simulate an example offshore steel wind turbine structure considering common damping techniques. The study is intended to provide necessary theoretical base for guidelines to efficient design of OWT structures. Results showed a reduction in displacement reaching 95.5% when using Tuned mass dampers.

Maha M. Hassan, Adel E. Abdelnaby
A Step Toward Sustainability by Developing a Correlation Between Destructive and Nondestructive Compressive Strength of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Concrete

Destructive testing of concrete is harmful and wasteful as concrete waste cannot be recycled. Also conducting destructive testing on concrete, large, heavy machinery such as universal testing must be used which is costly and time consuming. Furthermore, concrete specimen is manufactured utilizing hybrid fiber reinforced technology, which incorporates both steel fiber scraps from a lathe and glass fibers. Lathe waste is generated abundantly in local workshops, making efficient recycling management a must. This research aims to build a correlation between destructive (Universal testing machine) and nondestructive testing (UPV and rebound hammer) methods. Different grades of hybrid fiber reinforced concrete i.e., C10: 1:4:8, C:20: 1:2:4, C:25: 1:2:3 and C30: 1:1.5:3 having 2% lathe waste steel fibers and 0.6% glass fibers were casted and tested at curing age of 28 days. The destructive compressive strength of hardened hybrid fiber reinforced concrete was graphed in relation to the rebound hammer and Ultra sonic pulse velocity UPV. Compressive strength usually conducted through universal testing machine can be measure calculated using the equation derived from the correlation of destructive and non-destructive testing UPV and rebound hammer.

Fawad Ahmad, Mohammed Saleh Nusari, Mohammad Nizamuddin Inamdar, Musa Adamu, Yasser E. Ibrahim
An Integrated Approach to Resolving Construction Disputes: A Framework and AI-Based Solution with a Focus on Sustainability

Construction projects are inherently complex, involving multiple stakeholders, intricate processes, and substantial investments. As a result, disputes frequently arise, which can lead to delays in projects, increased costs (overruns), and tension in professional relationships. This paper presents a comprehensive study that aims to investigate the primary causes of construction disputes, analyze existing resolving mechanisms, and develop a novel framework for efficiently addressing and preventing disputes in construction projects. This research addresses the crucial aspect of sustainability within construction dispute resolution. It explores how sustainable practices can be integrated into the framework to promote environmentally responsible construction processes, reduce waste, and optimize resource utilization. This work contributes to the broader goal of creating more eco-friendly and socially responsible construction practices by considering sustainability as an integral part of dispute resolution.

Noha D. Raslan, Ayman H. Nassar
Framework for Facility Management in Public Education: Integrating Outsourcing and Technology for Effective Operations

This study aims to introduce Facility Management (FM) as a tool for balancing core and non-core services in public sector organizations, particularly in the field of education. A geographically distributed outsourcing FM framework was developed, incorporating Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to enhance facility management strategies. To validate the pertinency of the proposed framework, a questionnaire was utilized. The statistical analysis of the questionnaire showed inadequate knowledge of FM strategies in public organizations and recommended outsourcing the application of FM strategy in non-core maintenance duties. Thus, the research is an attempt to bridge the gap in the application of FM in the public education sector.

Khaled A. Alrasheed, Ehab Soliman, Heba Toma, Haya B. Albader
Real-Time Energy Efficient Communication for Large-Scale Industrial Internet of Things

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoTs) comprises large-scale sensors deployed to monitor and control the system. Deploying IoT devices presents challenges due to frequent disconnections and sudden power drainage in intermediate devices responsible for routing data. Consequently, the deployed network becomes sporadic, hindering connectivity with the industrial controller system, especially critical during emergencies. Furthermore, IoT node failures lead to a short network lifetime, which is intolerable in real-time industrial applications. This paper introduces a multi-hop clustering framework designed for reliable communication in industrial environments. The framework dynamically forms clusters, employing cluster heads and backup nodes to stabilize communication in the absence of a cluster head. Each cluster selects a backup node during the initial cluster head selection and later through data piggybacking. The proposed framework provides efficient communication across the IIoT network with the help of a backup and multi-hop clustering mechanism. The proposed framework is compared with two existing protocols i.e. cluster-based coordination routing (CRC) and energy-efficient quality of service routing (EEQSRP) protocols. The results show a considerable decrease in sensor energy consumption and packet delay.

Musfira Khan, Muazzam A. Khan, Haleem Farman, Asad W. Malik, Muhammad Sher Ramzan
A Novel Deep Learning Framework for Contraband Items Recognition in Smart City Applications

Ensuring safety and security is paramount in today's complex environment, and the effective detection of contraband items plays a pivotal role in achieving this objective. Contraband items, ranging from illegal substances to unauthorized goods, pose a threat to public safety, security, and the overall well-being of smart city inhabitants. Such items are currently detected by human operator reviewing the images from X-ray baggage scanners. However, manual detection of contraband items is inherently challenging and time-consuming resulting in significant delays at crowded places such as airports, train-stations, shopping malls etc. Moreover, there is a significant risk of overlooking certain items that could pose potential harm. To address these challenges, there is a growing demand for intelligent systems for contraband items detection that can efficiently and accurately detect items whilst minimizing false negatives. Automated deep learning solutions offer a sophisticated and technologically advanced approach to enhance the accuracy and speed of the detection process. In our pursuit to address this challenge comprehensively, we have obtained an X-ray Imaging Dataset specifically curated for this purpose. The dataset includes five types of objects including guns, knives, pliers, scissors, and wrenches that are typically banned to carry along. In this paper, we have proposed a deep learning-based approach to efficiently and accurately detect contraband items from X-ray images. The proposed approach is based on YOLO architectures that has been shown to perform better for object detection in variety of domains both in terms of accuracy and real-time performance. We have evaluated different versions of YOLO to select the version that works best for contraband item detection from X-ray images. Yolo-v8 has shown superior performance followed by Yolo-v5 in terms of accuracy. Challenges regarding class imbalance have been addressed using data augmentation especially for classes with limited number of samples. Comparison of proposed approach for contraband items detection with existing approaches demonstrates the superiority of proposed approach.

Shehzad Khalid, Zubair Ahmed, Ayesha Noor, Ahmed Sedik, Waqar Asif
Enhancing Sustainable Energy Solutions with Wireless Power Transfer in the Era of Electric Mobility

In the modern era, as dependence on electric devices increases, the demand for efficient energy solutions, especially for charging battery-powered devices like smartphones and electric vehicles (EVs), is growing. Traditional wired charging is being revolutionized by the emergence of Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) technology, promising a shift in how energy is delivered to battery-operated devices. While WPT is in its nascent stages, its development is crucial for its application across various sectors, including the automotive industry and mobile electronics.The development of the Contactless Transmission-Line Wireless Power Transfer (CTL-WPT) technology focuses on renewable energy sources to generate, store, and transfer energy efficiently, especially for EVs. This innovative approach is not only efficient and safe but also aligns with global sustainability goals, promoting the adoption of EVs and reducing greenhouse emissions. Laboratory experiments on CTL-WPT prototypes show that this technology is more than just an advanced charging method; it is a step towards sustainable energy practices, pushing for a greener, electric mobility future and demonstrating the impactful role of research and development in renewable energy.

Mourad S. Ibrahim, Walid Dyab
Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education Institutions’ Operations: A Holistic Strategic Framework for the Implementation and Monitoring of Policies and Regulations

Worldwide universities have attempted to use the Sustainable Development Goal 4 target 7 (SDG 4.7), as the heart of their sustainability strategy in accordance with the 2030 Agenda. However, a holistic implementation of sustainability policies and regulations in the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) systems and operations have not yet been achieved due to the complex and dynamic nature of both sustainability and HEIs. There is a need for a holistic and reliable framework, monitoring approach and tool that can help in aligning the sustainability requirements with the HEIs strategy. In addition, the Group of Twenty (G20) that was held in Saudi Arabia in 2020, recommended a focus on accelerating monitoring by the design and implementation of holistic frameworks to map progress on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Yet there are few studies on frameworks, tools and approaches that can help in the understanding of how a systematic transformation can be undertaken to enhance institution-wide integration of sustainability principles with HEI’s strategies. In this paper we review the relevant literature and develop a holistic conceptual strategic framework to understand and implement a sustainability monitoring system for HEI’s.

Norah Al Subait, Tiru Arthanari, David Sundaram, Gabrielle Peko
Optimizing Transitional Season Comfort: A Case Study on Thermal Performance of Open Courtyard and Walkway Plaza Designs

The transitional season happens in October, which is expected to decrease the summer temperature towards the winter. Thermal comfort can also be perceived, and more outdoor activities can be engaged. In studying the relationship between direct sunlight and the material used in the courtyard and walkway plaza, this study aims to compare the shaded and non-shaded areas. The methodology applied for this study is the observation data recorded at two primary locations: the open courtyard as the non-shaded area and the walkway plaza as the shaded area. The Infrared thermal imager Zeyuan ST9450 and the Testo 174H air temperature and humidity logger were used for the research instruments. The data from both locations were examined, and the comparison between the reads was analyzed. The findings suggested that the temperature in the shaded area was much more relaxed than in the non-shaded area, and both areas had the same temperature during the night. Additionally, studies have shown that a material’s surface reflectivity significantly reduces solar radiation and prevents an increase in surface temperature. It also agreed that the hardscapes, such as the paving areas, have a higher temperature than the softscape areas. The humidity comparison shows that the softscape area has more humidity than the hardscape. This study contributes to the understanding of the vital consideration of the building orientation on the sun path to create more shaded areas as potential outdoor and recreational areas specifically for the hot-arid climate.

Sharifah Fairuz Syed Fadzil, Siti Aisyah Muhammad, Mansour Aloufi
Exploring Gender-Based Disparities in Roadway Safety Perception: Affecting Factors and Policy Implications

Exploring gender-based disparities in roadway safety perceptions, this research, situated within the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals framework, investigates male and female drivers’ evolving safety perceptions over five years. Utilizing survey data, this study employs advanced statistical models, justifying separate models for each gender. Findings reveal distinct patterns, with female drivers expressing lower confidence in current driving safety. Factors like long-term driving experience and marital status play key roles. In addition to the academic contribution, the study informs practical interventions, aligning with sustainable development objectives focused on achieving gender parity, minimizing disparities, and promoting the sustainability of urban areas. This research serves as a compass for policymakers and urban planners, fostering inclusive and secure urban environments.

Asim Alogaili
Analysis of Takung 1 Bridge (Dharmasraya) Capacity by Using the Rating Factor Method

During the lifespan of critical structures, to ensure their safety, repeated inspections are fundamental. It is very important to frequently assess bridge components against specific loadings to be able to prevent early failure and unexpected mal-function. Takung 1 Bridge, built in 1975, is a composite girder structure. This bridge is an access for community transportation that connects Sijunjung City to Dharmasraya City. Therefore, a routine evaluation is required to ensure that the bridge is safe and functions during its service life. This paper describes the evaluation of the performance of the Takung 1 bridges based on the residual capacity value using the rating factor method, which refers to the standard for Guidelines Bridges Load Rating Factor (03/SE/M/2016) and design load bridges refers to Indonesia standard, that is the SNI 1725:2016. The method conducted in the study is by simulating three combination model of the static load test using a truck. After obtaining the structural analysis results, rating factor method analysis is conducted for gaining the ratio of capacity value to maximum live load. The results show that the calculated deflection value exceeds the specified allowable deflection when considering dead loads, live loads, and combination loads. Therefore, it is recommended to have repairments for preventing the bridge from sudden failure.

Masrilayanti, Aldio Wahyu Pratama, Lidiya Annisa
An Expert System for Evaluating the Financial Performance of Construction Companies

The construction sector significantly contributes to any nation’s economic development. The construction sector contributes significantly to providing new job opportunities and domestic investment. Previous research suggests that the construction sector has experienced a rise in financial failures, the construction sector has the second-highest average rate of business failures. With that in mind, understanding the effectiveness of the financial behavior of a construction company is necessary to improve the internal management practices that control its survival. In this paper, a theoretical regression model was created to predict the profitability of construction firms. Moreover, the predictive model was designed to build a suggestion framework to examine the effect of four independent dimensions which are Internal Management Practices MP, Owner Manager Characteristics OMC, Company Features CC, and Construction Practices CMP on the profitability of construction firms represents the model’s dependent variable. Each variable was selected from the literature and consists of a set of items related to the factors that affect the performance of construction firms. The Return On Equity ROE was used as the dependent variable in the regression model. The value of the dependent variable was collected from the financial statements of selected construction companies between 2015 and 2020. The variables were analyzed using a web-based formal standardized questionnaire addressed to medium-sized construction companies. The regression model results showed that MP and CMP predict the financial behavior of construction companies. Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations have been proposed to promote the construction sector to improve financial performance.

Ahmed Mohamed Abdelalim, Reem Mohamed khedr
Secure Accident Detection and Monitoring Systems: An Arduino-Based Case Study

Accidents are one of the major causes of death in Saudi Arabia. The accident detection and monitoring system utilizes evolving technologies to limit the fatal consequences caused by simply not rescuing the victim fast enough. This research studies accident detection and monitoring systems in-depth and proposes a security model to further enhance such systems. The paper is mainly divided into four sections; beginning with introducing the system, followed by a risk assessment, the design of a secure model, and lastly a security analysis of the proposed model. The introduction identifies the purpose of choosing the system and what would be investigated in later sections. While the risk assessment identifies assets, vulnerabilities, malicious actors, and threats associated with the system and then implements the relevant prioritizations of assets and vulnerabilities. Following that, secure design analysis of the system discusses the architecture, its evolution, applied security, external systems, and the proposed security model. Finally, in the security analysis section, three subdomains were thoroughly examined: the gyroscope sensor, GPS module, and GSM module, and a security concerns checklist was supplied to aid and serve for future research and improvements.

Sarah AlGadi, Reema AlBattah, Jood Bajouda, Anees Ara
Enhancement of Power Quality in Single Phase Systems Using Grid Connected Solar Inverter with AQSG Control

Power quality improvement is of paramount importance in both single as well as three-phase systems in the current scenario. Conventional control techniques used in three-phase systems do not apply to single-phase systems. Hence, we implement a Grid Connected Solar Inverter (GCSI) with Adaptive Quadrature Signal Generator (AQSG) based current control for enhancing power quality in single-phase system. It could solve the power quality issues in grid current introduced by both non-linear loads as well as Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) and provide clean energy to the consumers, hence improving the grid reliability. The simulation of GCSI with AQSG control for a single phase grid is implemented using MATLAB/Simulink. Further the Fast Fourier Transform analysis is done in order to validate that the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the GCSI is within the allowed bounds specified by IEEE standard 519-2014. The hardware implementation of the entire system is done in the laboratory projecting that the results obtained through the introduced system stand in accord with that of the simulation.

Divya R. Nambiar, Sooraj Suresh Kumar, M. V. Manoj Kumar, P. Jayaprakash, Umashankar Subramaniam, Dhafer Almakhles
Material Passports for the End-of-Life Stage of Buildings: A Study on the Challenges of Material Passports Adoption in the UAE

The adoption of the circular economy in construction is vital for reducing environmental impact and fostering sustainable growth. The ‘material passport’, a detailed digital repository of building materials, is crucial at the intersection of construction and the circular economy, driving toward a more sustainable future. Despite the need to understand challenges in material passport implementation, limited research exists. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review, categorizing challenges into Technical, Market, Political, Regulatory, and Commercial aspects, with technical challenges topping the list in frequency, signifying their paramount importance. Methodologically, six expert interviews refined identified challenges, resulting in thirteen challenges confirmed by three or more experts, encompassing issues like data management deficiencies, technological integration gaps, lack of regulatory frameworks, certification for recycled materials, complexities within the construction supply chain, and a noteworthy emergence of ‘customer perception,’ underlining stakeholder views on material passports. Through this amalgamation of literature review and expert insights, this research not only identifies but also validates the critical impediments hindering material passport implementation in the UAE. The validated challenges serve as a foundational framework for strategic recommendations aimed at overcoming barriers and fostering sustainable practices within the construction industry. Moreover, these findings may offer valuable insights that could extend this research to encompass GCC countries, providing a comprehensive understanding of challenges and opportunities across the region.

Sabreen Dar Amer, Israa Al Khaffaf, Fatin Samara, Salwa Beheiry
Enhancing UAV-Based Human Detection in Thermal Imaging with Custom Dataset

This paper presents a comprehensive study of human detection using thermal video data captured from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), usually drones. The data collection was performed during the daytime. The methodology involved the acquisition of drone-generated videos, frame extraction, annotation with bounding boxes, and dataset augmentation to enhance the robustness of the model. A custom dataset was created using the Autel Evo II Enterprise drone with a built-in thermal imaging camera. The experiments utilized You Look Only Once (YOLO) pre-trained models, specifically YOLO5s and YOLO8m, with a detailed analysis of precision, recall, and mean Average Precision (mAP). The findings suggest that YOLO8m outperforms YOLO5s, showcasing superior results in terms of precision, recall, mAP(50), and mAP(50–95), while effectively minimizing the false positive rate.

Haleem Farman, Ahmed Sedik, Abdulaziz Mohammd Fahad Obaid, Maged Esmail, Moustafa M. Nasralla
Blockchain-Based Decentralised Application (DApp) Towards Achieving a Hunger-Free World

Context: Food poverty has increased due to the socio-economic effects of the post-COVID-19 pandemic. Reporting issues have caused discrep- ancies between independent and official reports on food insecurity. Ob- jective: This study explores the potential of a trustless, transparent, decentralised blockchain system in reducing and accurately measuring the growth of food poverty. Methods: An analysis of food bank oper- ations was conducted to identify existing issues. The study developed a hybrid Decentralised Application (DApp) using the MERN Stack and Truffle Suite alongside Solidity for programming. Results: The study identified operational issues within food banks, aligning with existing literature. The main deliverable was a pre-alpha version of a functional hybrid DApp. Innovation: A novel Web3 authentication protocol was developed for integration within the DApp, potentially catalysing indus- try growth by providing a reliable and easy-to-integrate solution for user authentication. Conclusion: Utilising blockchain technology with food circularity principles can significantly bolster food redistribution efforts. The study provides evidence that this approach could enhance redistri- bution by 87% within the UK, effectively reducing food poverty.

Bilyaminu Auwal Romo, Lucian Duta, Mhd Saeed Sharif, Hisham AbouGrad, Ajaz Ali
Blockchain, InsurTech, and Smart Contracts: A Review of Compliance and Digital Shifts

This paper explores the transformative potential of blockchain and smart contracts in the insurance industry. It delves into how these technologies can revolutionise insurance operations, improving transparency, efficiency, and trust. The study analyses the integration and impact of blockchain in insurance, assesses operational and regulatory challenges, and explores the future trajectory of this technology in the sector. Key findings indicate a growing interest in blockchain among insurance professionals, balanced by challenges in adoption and integration. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for more research and collaboration to fully leverage blockchain in insurance, underscoring its significant potential to redefine industry dynamics.

Lucian Duta, Bilyaminu Auwal Romo
Disaster Management and Mitigation: Preventing Losses Caused by Urban Flash Floods Case Study, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Studies on urban flash floods in Saudi Arabia received less attention from scholars due to the low occurrence level while the negative impacts resulting from it are significant. The objective of this study is to examine the disaster management and mitigation of urban flash floods in Saudi Arabia, particularly Riyadh the capital city. A mixed method combining quantitative and desk review was used as the main approach. It was done through an online survey to collect first-hand data while secondary data relied on the literature, statistical and historical records. This study highlights the importance of disaster and mitigation planning to prevent losses from urban flash floods, especially for Riyadh as the Kingdom’s capital. Some recommendations on how to help mitigate property losses by improving the infrastructure and city planning are also presented.

Yenny Rahmayati, Sarah Alansary
Prediction of Rheological and Filtration Loss Properties of Nano-Zirconium-Dioxide Drilling Fluids via Machine Learning Techniques for Energy Exploration

The rheology of drilling mud is significantly affected by viscosity, salt concentration, temperature, and nanoparticle concentration. This study uses two machine learning techniques to predict the viscosity and filtration loss of water-based mud containing zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles as a function of concentration, shear rate, temperature, time, and differential pressure. The techniques utilized are artificial neural network (ANN) and random forest (RF). Both machine learning algorithms are tuned to acquire the best set of hyper-parameters. Results yielded by the algorithms are compared using statistical error matrices. The predicted results achieve R2 value higher than 0.9 for both models. The comparative analysis from the outcomes of both models exhibits that shear rate and time contributed the most to the variation in viscosity and fluid loss, respectively. After further validation of developed models with experimental data, a good agreement between predicted and experimental data is found.

Cheah Jason, Suhaib Umer Ilyas, Syahrir Ridha, Umara Sehar, Mustafa Alsaady, Shwetank Krishna
Backmatter
Metadaten
Titel
Proceedings of the ICSDI 2024 Volume 3
herausgegeben von
Yasser Mansour
Umashankar Subramaniam
Zahiraniza Mustaffa
Abdelhakim Abdelhadi
Mohamed Al-Atroush
Eman Abowardah
Copyright-Jahr
2025
Verlag
Springer Nature Singapore
Electronic ISBN
978-981-9783-45-8
Print ISBN
978-981-9783-44-1
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-8345-8