Hassan A. Abass

Enhancing thermal properties of concrete blocks in hot climates is crucial for energy efficiency. In this study, the thermal properties of wax-expanded polystyrene (EPS) composite insulation were investigated to assess its effectiveness in reducing heat transfer and improving heat capacitance. Four hollow concrete blocks, measuring 10 cm × 19 cm × 40 cm were examined: three blocks were filled with varying ratios of wax and Expanded Polystyrene, and one remained hollow as a control. The specific heat capacity of the wax-Expanded Polystyrene composite was measured to evaluate its thermal storage potential. Additionally, the thermal insulation abilities of the filled blocks were assessed using a heat source and a thermal camera. The results showed that the blocks with the wax-EPS composites exhibited reduced heat transfer compared to the control block, demonstrating improved thermal performance. The block with the higher wax content additionally displayed greater specific heat capacity, achieving a value of 1825.1 (J/kg.K), indicating enhanced thermal storage capabilities. These findings highlight the potential of wax-EPS concrete blocks in improving thermal regulation, contributing to a viable and energy-efficient building material for hot climates.

The selection of a strategic site for constructing a space center and spacecraft launch station is essential for advancing Saudi Arabia’s space exploration capabilities. A well-planned location ensures operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability. This study aims to identify an optimal site that meets international engineering practices by evaluating environmental conditions, construction feasibility, transportation accessibility, security measures, and sustainability. Three sites were shortlisted for comparison: Jabal Hassan Island, Abo Ali Island, and Mastura Village. A multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework was applied to ensure a structured and objective assessment. The methodology involved geospatial data analysis, environmental assessments, soil investigations, and transportation analysis. Satellite imagery examined land stability, while climate reports provided insight into weather conditions. Geotechnical studies and transportation networks were evaluated for accessibility. Security measures were analyzed based on site remoteness, natural barriers, and risk factors. The evaluation applied weighted criteria, assigning 30% each to environmental conditions and construction feasibility and 20% each to accessibility, transportation, and security measures. The results showed that Mastura Village achieved the highest score of 90.7, followed by Jabal Hassan Island at 68.3 and Abo Ali Island at 61.3. The findings align with international benchmarks and provide a solid foundation for future aerospace development in Saudi Arabia.

Madina Al Munawara faces severe water scarcity due to its low rainfall, and high evaporation rates. The city depends heavily on energy-intensive desalinated water to meet its growing demand. This study aims to develop innovative water management solutions by reusing ablution water from the Prophet’s Mosque. It also seeks to integrate these solutions into the design of multifunctional public green spaces to enhance urban sustainability. The methodology involves a multi-phase approach that includes data collection, system design, and material selection. The system design incorporates reservoirs made from volcanic stones to optimize water storage and minimize evaporation. A graded layering system from volcanic stones was introduced to increase retention capacity. The findings demonstrate that reusing ablution water can reduce Madina Al Munawara’s dependence on desalinated water. The integration of these green spaces helps improve air quality and alleviate the urban heat island effect. Additionally, the project enhances social well-being by establishing public recreational spaces that assist community involvement and social interaction. These multifunctional green areas provide a healthier and more connected urban environment. The study presents a replicable model tailored to the needs of Madina Al Munawara, supporting both sustainable water management and urban resilience in arid environments.

Purpose: This study examines how Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be systematically integrated into the strategic planning of infrastructure development in post-war Sudan. The objective is to develop a structured framework that supports sustainable, inclusive, and resilient reconstruction while addressing the country’s complex post-conflict challenges. Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining a systematic review of international best practices in post-conflict reconstruction with an analytical assessment of infrastructure performance in relation to SDG indicators. Key institutional, financial, technical, and governance challenges were examined to inform the development of an SDG-aligned strategic planning framework tailored to the Sudanese context. Findings: The study proposes a comprehensive strategic planning framework that integrates SDG principles across all stages of infrastructure development. The framework emphasises clear vision and goal setting, inclusive stakeholder engagement, environmental and social impact assessments, adaptive risk management, and robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The findings indicate that SDG-aligned planning can enhance infrastructure resilience, promote equitable resource allocation, and support long-term recovery in post-conflict environments. Originality: This research contributes a context-specific and holistic framework for embedding SDGs into post-conflict infrastructure planning, addressing a notable gap in existing literature by explicitly linking strategic planning processes with sustainability, resilience, and social equity objectives in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Implications: The proposed framework offers practical guidance for policymakers, planners, and development agencies seeking to align reconstruction efforts with global sustainability agendas. Its application can support the restoration of essential services, strengthen institutional trust, and foster sustainable socio-economic development in post-war Sudan and comparable post-conflict contexts. Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals; Environmental Social Governance; Strategic Planning; CSR Europe; Infrastructure Development; Sustainability; Post-War Sudan. Citation: Abas, H. A. and Ahmed, A. (2025): Integrating SDGs Principles into the Strategic Planning of Infrastructure Development in Post-War Sudan. World Journal of Science, Technology and Sustainable Development (WJSTSD), Vol. 20, No. 4, pp. 383-401.

Expansive soils pose geotechnical challenges due to significant volume changes with moisture variations. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), with its diverse geology and climate, contains extensive deposits of expansive soils that require systematic assessment. This study compiles and analyzes data on the distribution, geological origin, geotechnical behavior, and mineralogical composition of expansive soils in key regions, including Al-Ghatt, Tayma, Tabuk, Al-Madinah, Hofuf, Al-Qatif, and Sharorah. The findings show that expansive soils in KSA cover about 37% of the country’s total area and occur across nine of its thirteen provinces. Their formation results from geological history, sedimentary processes, and severe weathering under arid conditions. Geotechnical data reveal significant regional variability in properties such as specific gravity (2.24–2.96), liquid limit (30–183.5%), Clay content (10– 93%) Shrinkage limits (9 to 47.2%) and swelling pressure (14–1930 kN/m ² ), reflecting differences in mineralogy and soil structure. The mineralogical composition of expansive soils in KSA varies regionally, influenced by geology and climate. Future research should focus on expanding mineralogical and geotechnical investigations in underexplored regions. Standardized testing methods should be adopted across studies to improve data consistency and regional comparison. Moreover, integrating remote sensing and GIS will enhance expansive soil mapping and risk assessment across KSA.