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El embalse de las Tres Gargantas ha comenzado a desempeñar un papel integral en la generación de energía, el control de inundaciones, el transporte marítimo y otros aspectos desde el 1° de junio de 2003. Utilizando datos de escorrentía y transporte de sedimentos de series temporales largas, la evolución de la relación del lago Dongting y las tres desembocaduras del río Jingjiang después de la operación de las Tres Gargantas, el proyecto se analizó utilizando redes neuronales de propagación posterior, prueba de tendencia de Mann-Kendall y curvas acumulativas dobles. Los resultados muestran lo siguiente: 1) a escala interanual e interdecadal, la disminución de la escorrentía del lago Dongting se debe principalmente a la fuerte disminución de la escorrentía de las tres desembocaduras; hasta cierto punto, la sedimentación del lago Dongting se alivió debido a la reducción del transporte de sedimentos procedentes de las tres desembocaduras; 2) al analizar la consistencia de la escorrentía y el transporte de sedimentos dentro y fuera del lago Dongting, se encontró que la influencia de la ingeniería hidráulica en el río Yangtze en la escorrentía, y el sedimento que entra y sale del lago Dongting es asincrónico; la tasa de descomposición del sedimento en el lago es mucho mayor que la tasa de descomposición del sedimento fuera del lago; 3) a partir del cambio de tendencia de los días secos de las tres desembocaduras, éstas tienden a estar sedimentadas, y los ríos Ouchi y Hudu disminuyen gradualmente; 4) desde la línea de proceso de sedimentación del lago Dongting, la sedimentación acumulada del lago Dongting desde 2003 hasta 2018 fue de -2 829 × 104 t, y el lago Dongting cambió de estado de sedimentación a estado de erosión; 5) se utilizó un modelo de red neuronal de propagación trasera para simular la escorrentía y el transporte de sedimentos del lago Dongting, y los resultados muestran que la precisión de la simulación satisfizo las necesidades de predicción de la escorrentía y el transporte de sedimentos del lago Dongting.

El análisis de frecuencias de crecientes trivariado, del gasto máximo (Q), el volumen escurrido (V) y la duración total (D) permite estimar con mayor exactitud el hidrograma de la creciente de diseño. Para procesar registros anuales conjuntos de Q y V disponibles se propuso estimar D como la duración del hidrograma Gamma hasta el 0.1 % del Q. Después, a cada registro de Q, V y D se le busca su distribución de probabilidades idónea para obtener las funciones marginales. En seguida, se adopta la función Cópula (FC) que mejor representa a las variables conjuntas Q-V, Q-D y V-D. Para estas búsquedas y las trivariadas subsecuentes, se trabajó con las FC de Clayton, Frank, Gumbel-Hougaard y Joe. En ambos casos, la selección de la mejor FC se basa en los errores de ajuste entre las probabilidades empíricas y teóricas. A las ternas de datos Q, V y D se les buscó las FC de mejor ajuste simétricas y asimétricas de las cuatro familias citadas. A continuación se calculan los periodos de retorno conjuntos de tipo OR, AND y de Kendall. Estos últimos permiten la estimación de los eventos de diseño de Q, V y D. Se describe el análisis de frecuencias trivariado para las 55 crecientes anuales de la estación hidrométrica La Cuña de la Región Hidrológica No. 12-3 (Río Santiago), México. Por último, se formulan las conclusiones, que destacan la sencillez de los análisis de frecuencias trivariados cuando se realizan con FC.

El presente trabajo de investigación tiene como objetivo principal analizar los motivos del consumo de agua embotellada en México y las percepciones del consumidor. Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura utilizando el elemento de informe preferido para revisiones sistemáticas (PRISMA) y la lista de verificación STROBE. El diseño del estudio fue elegido porque involucra el empleo de métodos explícitos y reproducibles para buscar, evaluar y sintetizar información sobre el tema. Se llevaron a cabo búsquedas electrónicas a través de Web of Science y Scopus, identificándose artículos publicados entre 1987 y 2022. Luego, los artículos se seleccionaron por relevancia, aplicabilidad, validez y confiabilidad. El proceso de extracción de datos involucró el uso del Repositorio de Datos de Revisión Sistemática (SRDR). La herramienta está basada en la Web, y es fundamental en la extracción y gestión de datos para la revisión sistemática. Se identificaron 26 artículos que ofrecían una revisión histórica del consumo de agua embotellada en México. Los artículos citan que el aumento en la demanda de agua embotellada se debe a las percepciones organolépticas y de salud entre los clientes. Las percepciones se remontan al terremoto de 1985 y al brote de cólera de 1991, que provocó escasez de agua y problemas de contaminación. La investigación es novedosa, con una revisión de los artículos que muestra que existe una aparente escasez de conocimiento con respecto a la razón principal por la que México es el consumidor número uno de agua embotellada. La información presentada es fundamental para ayudar a los administradores públicos a mejorar la calidad del servicio de suministro de agua y los índices de satisfacción del cliente.

La información climatológica es importante en la aplicación e investigación en distintas disciplinas relacionadas con los recursos naturales y el medio ambiente, sin embargo su adquisición puede ser difícil y demandar mucho tiempo, particularmente en zonas montañosas (Kouwen et al., 2005). Las estaciones meteorológicas terrestres no siempre representan de modo adecuado el clima que ocurre en las regiones de estudio o cuenca hidrográficas por su falta de cobertura geográfica, además de que presentan vacíos de información en sus series de datos. Ante tal problemática, en el presente trabajo de investigación se evaluaron datos mensuales de precipitación, temperatura máxima y mínima provenientes del conjunto de datos meteorológicos globales denominado “Reanálisis del Sistema de Predicción del Clima” (CFSR, por sus siglas en inglés), como una fuente de información de uso alternativo frente a las observadas in situ en estaciones convencionales (CLICOM), mediante un análisis estadístico en la cuenca alta del río Mayo, Chihuahua, México. Los indicadores estadísticos que se emplearon (sesgo porcentual, raíz del error cuadrático medio, error promedio absoluto y coeficiente de determinación) mostraron que, en general, existe un buen desempeño del CFSR en el modelamiento de la precipitación, temperatura máxima y mínima en época seca, y una sobreestimación durante los meses de lluvia.

Los ríos de flujo libre (RFL) se caracterizan por su conectividad fluvial íntegra y por proveer múltiples beneficios a las comunidades asentadas en ellos. Sin embargo, a nivel mundial estos tipos de ríos se encuentran amenazados por la construcción de obras de infraestructura. En ocasiones, la pluralidad de valores que las comunidades le atribuyen a estos ríos no se toma en cuenta, particularmente al momento de planificar proyectos de desarrollo, lo que podría detonar conflictos ambientales. Se analizaron los valores sociales asociados con el río Los Horcones (RLH) entre dos localidades, río arriba (Las Juntas y Los Veranos) y río abajo (Boca de Tomatlán). A partir del análisis de 35 entrevistas y el uso redes semánticas, se encontró que ambas comunidades tienen un interés común por la protección y conservación del río Los Horcones. Sin embargo, se observa una ponderación diferencial de valores específicos por localidad. Río abajo (Boca de Tomatlán) predominan los valores intrínsecos y relacionales, dado que el RLH es fundamental para la diversificación de sus medios de vida. En contraste, río arriba (Las Juntas y Los Veranos) predominan los valores relacionales e instrumentales debido a la dependencia económica del turismo de naturaleza que se realiza en el RLH. El reconocimiento de la pluralidad de valores asociados con los ríos de flujo libre es esencial para la formulación de estrategias de manejo y conservación de los recursos hídricos.

La gestión del agua potable en zonas urbanas representa en la actualidad uno de los mayores desafíos. Por lo tanto, el suministro de agua potable y el saneamiento ha llevado a los expertos a explorar nuevos enfoques y estrategias para su gestión. Ubicándose en esta línea de trabajo, el presente documento explora los indicadores de evaluación de desempeño para la gestión del recurso hídrico aplicados a los servicios de abastecimiento de agua a nivel nacional e internacional. El objetivo consiste en proponer indicadores relacionados con los enfoques de gestión del agua orientados al derecho humano al agua y a un medio ambiente sano, y armonizando con el ODS-6 se plantea evaluar tanto los indicadores cualitativos como cuantitativos a través de una revisión de la literatura y criterios de selección, como aplicabilidad, relevancia, datos existentes y características locales de manejo que le dan al recurso hídrico. Aplicando al estudio de caso el Sistema de Agua Potable y Alcantarillado de León, Guanajuato (SAPAL), la investigación aplicó la metodología análisis jerárquico de procesos (AHP), indicando aquellos indicadores relevantes para la gestión del recurso hídrico bajo la perspectiva de soluciones multidisciplinares, integrales y sostenibles para el servicio de abastecimiento de agua, con lo cual pudo verificarse la disponibilidad de datos para la aplicación de los indicadores propuestos. Se concluye que a partir de este planteamiento se cuenta con indicadores que consideren los enfoques en materia socioambiental que impacten en la gestión sostenible del agua de manera que coadyuve al diseño, seguimiento, evaluación y toma de decisiones de políticas públicas enfocadas a los organismos operadores de manera integral.

El sistema de drenaje de la Ciudad de México es muy complejo y cuenta con cuatro salidas artificiales de desalojo: el Gran Canal de Desagüe, y los Emisores Central, Poniente y Oriente, que transportan agua residual y pluvial hacia el Valle del Mezquital. Sin embargo, no se tienen registros de los volúmenes históricos del agua residual que ha recibido el Valle del Mezquital. Por ello se realizó una estimación del volumen de agua residual y pluvial que ingresa al sistema de drenaje proveniente de cuatro fuentes principales de descargas: población, industrias, servicios y ríos, para el periodo 1985-2020, en un lapso quinquenal. El promedio de precipitación aportada por las áreas metropolitanas fue de 648 ± 12.49 hm3. La estimación promedio de descargas industriales y de servicios reportadas por el Registro Público de Derechos de Agua (REPDA) fue de 117 ± 18.09 hm3 y la población aumentó el vertido de aguas negras de 582 hm3 en 1985 a 803 hm3 en 2020. Este estudio desagrega los volúmenes aproximados transportados por cada emisor y los que reciben los ríos El Salto y El Salado. Se reporta por primera vez una estimación anual del volumen histórico de aguas residuales que han propiciado el desarrollo socioeconómico del Valle del Mezquital, permitiendo posteriores trabajos de escenarios futuros para la toma de decisiones y la prevención de desastres.

La frecuencia y magnitud de los eventos climáticos extremos de precipitación han aumentado de forma significativa en varios países del mundo, incluido Perú. Estos hechos causan pérdidas económicas y humanas, especialmente en países en vías de desarrollo. La información y metodologías que permitan prevenir o diseñar estrategias para afrontarlas son escasas o inexistentes. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la capacidad del producto satelital IMERG (Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals) del satélite GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) y datos observados a partir de estaciones meteorológicas mediante un enfoque mixto para estimar la distribución de lluvias extremas en la región del Cusco, ubicado al sur del Perú. Este enfoque mixto aprovechó las ventajas que ofrecen ambas fuentes de información, como es la solidez de los datos observados a lo largo de varios años y la resolución temporal horaria del producto satelital. La metodología se basó en una curva de crecimiento de cada región homogénea, factor de corrección y parámetros que estiman la función intensidad y duración para toda la región Cusco. Los resultados se evaluaron mediante validación cruzada entre los valores de precipitación diaria obtenidos del producto IMERG, enfoque mixto y precipitación observada para periodos de retorno de 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 y 1 000 años. Los resultados sugieren que la combinación de datos observados de lluvia y del satélite IMERG puede ser una alternativa para estimar lluvias extremas en la región Cusco.

La erosión constituye uno de los problemas habituales de la hidráulica fluvial y costera. Existen numerosas tipologías para su control, desde estructuras discontinuas, como espigones de variados tipos, y continuas, como enrocados, gaviones y colchonetas. En este trabajo se describe una configuración de manta articulada flexible y superponible para el control de la erosión hidráulica. Se presentan los ensayos experimentales para evaluar rugosidad, comportamiento hidráulico y estabilidad al inicio de movimiento de la misma, demostrando su efectividad frente a alternativas como enrocados. Los resultados muestran que una manta de bloques constitutivos (de densidad ⍴ = 1.92 kg/m3 y altura igual a 1 cm) con sus respectivos conectores flexibles se comporta igual a un lecho de sedimentos (⍴ = 1.65 kg/m3) de diámetro característico igual a 2 cm, en lo que respecta a su rugosidad y a su condición de iniciación al movimiento. Esto permite concluir que las protecciones flexibles desarrolladas para el control de la erosión presentan una alta efectividad, buen desempeño y menores volúmenes y costos asociados.

El tratamiento y análisis de las mediciones topobatimétricas genera una mejor comprensión de la dinámica sedimentaria de un embalse; esto contribuye a los encargados de la operación del embalse a implementar mejores prácticas de manejo, además de diseñar e implementar medidas efectivas para el manejo y conservación de estas importantes infraestructuras para asegurar su sostenibilidad. El propósito de este estudio fue analizar la información disponible de las topobatimetrías del embalse San Jacinto que fueron ejecutadas en 1989, 1995, 2004, 2013, 2016 y 2019, para así poder determinar la variación temporal y espacial del sedimento depositado. Este estudio permitió identificar los cursos de agua de mayor aporte de sedimentos y los patrones morfológicos longitudinales. Los resultados muestran que en 30 años de operación se tiene un volumen acumulado de sedimento de 16.5 hm3, 3.1 hm3 por encima del volumen muerto previsto en proyecto, evidenciando la subestimación de la vida útil en la etapa de diseño.

The Groundwater Ubiquity Score (GUS) is widely used to indicate the relative leachability of pesticides based on the soil half-life and the adsorption partition coefficient. In this manuscript, we derive mathematically the Theoretical Groundwater Ubiquity Score (TGUS) that, based on considerations of the preferential movement of pesticides to groundwater and a first-order pesticide degradation model, leads to a similar function as the GUS model. In the preferential flow model, movement to groundwater is fast, and the adsorption partition coefficient is thus not used for calculating the travel time to the groundwater (as it is in the advective-dispersive equation) but rather only determines the distribution of the pesticide between the water and soil phases. Both the GUS and TGUS models well predict the groundwater contamination of the originally studied pesticides for rainfall event(s) that caused pesticide leaching from 30 days after application. The theoretically derived Groundwater Ubiquity Score (TGUS) shows, in accordance with experimental evidence, that for leaching events shortly after spraying, the mass lost to (and resulting concentration in) groundwater is inversely related to the adsorption partition coefficient and not necessarily to the GUS index.

This study explores how the ice cover on water surfaces affects the deformation of the channel bed around non-submerged spur dikes. Laboratory experiments have been conducted by using two types of model ice cover with different roughness coefficients and three sands with different median grain sizes. The effects of various layout angles of non-submerged spur dikes on the maximum scour depth and scour patterns around spur dikes have been evaluated. Results showed that the dike orientation angle is the critical factor influencing the maximum scour depth. The presence of an ice cover and its roughness coefficient dramatically affect the channel bed deformation around spur dikes. The combined effect of the dike orientation angle, ice cover roughness, and flow Froude number resulted in different scour patterns. For instance, the upstream length of scour holes decreases by approximately 60% when the dike angle changes from 90º to 60º, while an increase in flow rate by about 50% leads to a 20% increase in the downstream length of scour holes. Equations have been derived to determine the maximum scour depth around spur dikes, considering the effects of ice cover, bed material and the dike layout angles.

Novel soil datasets and the application of pedotransfer functions provide soil hydraulic input data for modelling hydrological processes at different scales. We aimed to evaluate the reliability of soil hydraulic parameters derived by indirect methods in simulation of soil moisture time series and water budgets at profile level of three sites (Forest, Orchard and Grassland) from a Central European catchment (Lake Balaton, Hungary). Five soil-vegetation-atmosphere model variants were set up with the Hydrus-1D model for each site, differing only in the parametrization of input soil data: i) a calibrated reference, ii) measured values, iii) values predicted from measured basic soil properties, iv) values predicted from national soil map information, v) values derived from the 3D soil hydraulic dataset of Europe. Calibrated soil parameters led to Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency 0.50, 0.54 and 0.71 for the Forest, Orchard and Grassland Site respectively. The outcomes for model efficiency of soil moisture underline the superiority of local databases over regional ones and the need for more detailed vertical discretization during modelling. The model performance according to soil moisture and water budget accuracy led to different rank order of model variants. Water budget comparisons indicated moderate differences between the hydrologic fluxes simulated by the different model variants, emphasizing the uncertainties associated with soil hydraulic parametrization either at local or at watershed scale.

The construction and operation of waterworks has a significant impact on natural ecosystems. The evaluation of their negative impact and the proposal to minimize their impact, as well as the revitalization, especially of large rivers, have been given great importance in recent decades. The main goal of the study is to present impact of Gabčíkovo Waterwork on forest ecosystems after 30 years of damming. Specially evaluated are monitoring sites where changes are observed in the Slovak part of the so-called inland delta, i.e., between old and new riverbed of the Danube. The assessment of changes in terrestrial vegetation on selected monitoring sites was compared with the assessment of parallel measured soil moisture data. At the same time, data from the National Forestry Centre were also used to monitor changes in the state of forest ecosystems in the whole area of interest.

Proper characterization of the unsaturated hydraulic properties in rocks is significant for predicting fluid flow in soil, hydrogeologic, and petroleum science and engineering problems. In this study, we contributed rigorous analysis of the unsaturated hydraulic properties of three reservoir rock samples (Berea Sandstone, Guelph Dolomite, and Indiana Limestone). An improved version of the standard evaporation method (HYPROP) was developed to cater specifically to rock samples. The improved HYPROP setup enables measurements of local water pressures within rock samples without disturbing the upper portion of the samples. The obtained results were compared with those obtained using the conventional pressure plate method and a state-of-the-art nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method. Observed data were analyzed in terms of four different unimodal and bimodal hydraulic functions. The HYPROP data were found to be relatively close to the pressure plate data of two carbonate rocks. The NMR-based data were reasonably consistent with the HYPROP data, with differences likely due in part to the fact that they were obtained using two different 5-cm long plugs taken from the same core. Heterogeneity along the rock cores from which the samples were taken could be a major reason for the observed differences, and hence should be considered in reservoir analyses.

Soil erosion is a complex and highly heterogeneous process with a wide range of environmental and economic impacts. Its estimation is particularly challenging and modelling is typically used for erosion estimation over large areas. The aim of this study was to compare the two leading empirical and physical erosion estimation models, i.e. the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP). The models were calibrated and validated using data collected from field experiments conducted in agricultural lands of Mexico. The simulated rainfall experiments involved measuring erosion from field plots subjected to four tillage systems (No crop, Conventional tillage, Conventional tillage + residues, and Handspike) under two antecedent soil moisture conditions (dry and wet). Different calibration approaches based on the factors K and C for RUSLE, and interrill erodibility and hydraulic conductivity in WEPP were tested. The best-performing methods in RUSLE involved measuring the K factor and adopting the recommended C factor by the National Forestry Commission of Mexico. In WEPP, the best results were obtained when interrill erodibility was estimated from experimental measurements. Overall, RUSLE outperformed WEPP in most of the treatments except for CT under WAMC.

This paper presents an experimental and numerical study of the freezing-thawing behavior of water in fully saturated sand. A relatively inexpensive and easily replicable experimental procedure was developed to simulate the freezing-thawing cycles in a medium-sized sand sample placed in a modified commercial freezer. By insulating the sides and bottom of the sample well, while allowing good thermal conductivity at the top of the sample, a nearly vertical advance of the freezing and thawing front was achieved. A series of freeze-thaw cycles were performed with higher and lower temperature gradients. A numerical multiphysics model, assuming an axially symmetric geometry based on the transient heat transfer during the phase transition, used a parametric approach to estimate the effective thermal properties of the sand-water-ice system. A good agreement between experimental and modelling results was shown, but slightly different parameter sets were obtained for each temperature gradient. The presented method could be a simple way to characterize the freeze-thaw process in natural and artificial porous materials.

Studies across multiple soils find increasing pH decreases water repellency. In this study, water repellency and a range of other soil physical properties of bulk soils, aggregates and intact specimens were measured on a long-term pH field experiment on a single sandy loam soil under a ley-arable crop rotation, with soil pH adjustments occurring annually by adding FeSO4 or CaCO3, to lower or raise the pH, respectively. Crop impacts were investigated by comparing 3rd year grass-white clover to spring oats, at the beginning (May) and end (September) of the growing season to allow soil structure comparisons. As in previous research, increased CO2 microbial respiration (p 55 years of chemical additions to amend soil pH.

River bank protection is vital in hydraulic river engineering to preserve natural rivers, lands, and critical constructions such as bridges. Spur dikes are erosion-protective structures that protrude outward from the river bank in different orientations to deflect the flow away from the riverbank. The present experimental study provides insight into the temporal variation in bed morphology and scours around rectangular-shaped spur dikes with different orientations, such as 60º, 90º, and 120º. Also, maximum scour depth (MSD) is developed compared to the condition when downward seepage is applied. The experiments examined the suitability of various spur dike orientation configurations and the scour development over time, specifically at intervals of 2, 12, and 24 hours, and compared with 24 hours (Seepage). Results showed that the orientation angle of 90º generated the highest scour depth, while the least scour depth was found with an orientation angle of 120º. The downward seepage intensifies the motion of sediment particles and leads to an escalated particle detachment, resulting in deeper scour depressions. The development of scour depth is initiated from the spur dike tip and reaches its maximum there. The deposition of sand particles shifted downstream, and a dune-like structure formed near the second spur dike.

The article is devoted to the processing of experimental data regarding the drying of thin wet materials. The calculated kinetic dependencies necessary to determine the drying duration can be obtained from solving differential mass transfer equations, but this task is analytically complex, since drying is a non-stationary process, and the transfer coefficients depend on the moisture content and temperature of the material in a very complex form. This necessitates experimental studies with the development of approximate simple empirical equations for determining the drying duration with a minimum number of constants determined from the experiment. When processing the experiment, the relative drying rate, generalized drying time, the ratio of drying time by periods and the ratio of the current moisture content to the critical one were accepted as stable complex generalized variables when processing the experiment. All variables are interrelated by the drying rate in the first period (the period of constant rate). As a result of processing experimental data on convective drying of ceramics, asbestos, felt, formulas were obtained that make it possible to determine its duration in the period of falling rate. The invariance caused by such experimental processing allows one to move from one variable to another, from one coordinate system to another, which significantly reduces the number of necessary experiments. Data processing and analysis of the resulting formulas shows that the drying curves are complex exponentials, and the main mediating variables are the relative drying rate and relative moisture content. Verification of the accuracy of experimental data processing and the reliability of the obtained empirical equations, which make it possible to calculate the drying duration for the specified materials, is presented. The spread of the calculated values compared to the experiment is about 10 %, which is within the accuracy of experimental data processing.

At present, an actual trend in the development of fuel and energy complexes in a number of countries is the diversification of generation via the involvement of local types of solid fuel. In this case, thermochemical processing of fuel is often carried out in a fluidized state. A significant proportion of dispersed fuels cannot be transferred to a state of stable fluidization. The solution in such cases is to create a fluidized bed of inert carrier, into which particles of the target fuel component are then introduced. In this work, a computational and experimental study of the fluidization of inert bulk material (haydite granules) was carried out. The key purpose of the work was to develop a mathematical model for the formation of a fluidized bed, which makes it possible to calculate the process based on its local characteristics, as well as to identify the model parameters and test it using experiment data. During the study the problems of developing a numerical method for calculating the distribution of velocities and concentrations along the height of the apparatus were solved, parametric identification of the proposed mathematical model was carried out, and empirical verification of the modeling results was carried out. The mathematical apparatus of the theory of Markov chains was used as the mathematical basis for constructing the model. The data from our own laboratory full-scale experiment were used to identify the parameters of the model and verify it. A comparison of calculated and experimental data showed the high predictive efficiency of the model for the given granulometric composition of the fluidizing product. The results of the laboratory full-scale experiments also showed a significant evolution of the granulometric composition of haydite granules during their long-term stay in a fluidized bed, which requires a separate study, as well as the introduction of appropriate amendments to the mathematical model for its further improvement.

The modern development of power engineering is accompanied by a number of trends, among which one can note the decarbonization of energy production processes; an increase in the share of electricity in the balance of energy consumption due to the deep electrification of industry, transport and heat supply; decentralization of energy sources; an increase in the share of renewable energy sources, including the involvement in the turnover of secondary energy resources and energy from the disposal of organic waste; the development of practice active consumption and prosumerism. For the Republic of Belarus, in which forests are one of the main renewable natural resources and the most important national wealth that ensure the sustainable socio-economic development of the country, its economic, energy, environmental and food security, in the context of decarbonization of the power engineering sector, it is relevant to determine the importance and location of energy generating equipment using local fuels (LF), especially for heating capacities and polygeneration plants. The paper presents the results of a study conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of using mini-CHP plants on LF. The analysis of the archived data of the automated process control system of an operating mini-CHP with a heating ORC unit (Turboden 14 CHP) made it possible to evaluate its maneuverable characteristics with reference to the operating modes of the centralized heat supply system with a predominance of municipal and household heat load in it. It has been shown that the average rate of change in power is 1.5...3.0 % min; respectively, the time to reach rated power under normal conditions exceeds 40 minutes; the time to start the unit from a “cold state” varies from 20 minutes to 2 hours. Therefore the assumption has been confirmed that the studied ORC unit in particular and mini-CHP plants of a similar type as a whole cannot be considered and used as a maneuverable energy source without additional modernization. The conducted numerical study made it possible to show the opportunity of planning effective operating modes of a heating ORC unit in the configuration of the basic thermal circuit of a mini-CHP on LF with the integration of a hydrogen production module into it based on the forecast of the daily schedule of thermal energy consumption and taking into account the dynamics of changes in outdoor air temperature. Conceptual block diagrams of integrated polygeneration systems are also presented; they stand out for the use of hydrogen generation equipment from over-produced electricity during the operation of mini-CHP plants according to a thermal schedule and participation in the coverage of the electric load schedule of the Unified Energy System of Belarus. The use of thermal circuits with thermochemical hydrogen production technology and the operating mode of the ORC unit at rated power is shown to be promising for newly designed mini-CHPs on LF.

There is a large number of factors that affect the long-term permissible load currents of power cables, including environmental conditions, the method of laying, as well as the geometric, thermal and electrical characteristics of the cable structure. The catalogs of manufacturers of power cables with cross-linked polyethylene insulation do not specify the long-term permissible load currents, which would take into account the cross-sectional area of the screen, the presence of aluminum polymer tape and armor made of aluminum wires. These components can have a significant impact on the permissible load due to the currents induced in them during two-way grounding, which leads to additional heating of the cable. The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of the above-mentioned factors on the long-term permissible load currents. The paper presents formulas for calculating the long-term permissible load current, which take into account the design features of the cables under consideration. The calculations have shown that the permissible load can decrease by 6 % with an increase in the cross-sectional area of the screen from the nominal row by one step. The introduction of an aluminum polymer tape into the cable structure changes the permissible load by no more than 2 %. The presence of armor can lead to a decrease in the permissible load by up to 18 % and its increase by up to 13 %, depending on the section of the core and screen, the method and conditions of laying. The calculation results obtained differ from the catalogdata by up to 25%. While the obtained errorsindicatetheneed to formcoefficientsfor a moreaccuratedetermination of the long-term permissible cable currents.

The issues of the formation of inhomogeneities and cracks as well as the effects of their spontaneous healing are considered on the well-known principles and concepts of nonlinear dynamics and quantum technologies in order to fully describe the picture of possible processes of the genesis of heterogeneities and their self-organization. At the same time, the process of spontaneous overgrowth of micro-inhomogeneities in solid-state/metal products, such defects in which occur under different operating conditions, is discussed on the example of thermal power plants of various types with cyclic processes and vibrations. The mechanism of such healing is determined by dynamic processes of unsteady diffusion with certain temporal characteristics evaluated within the framework of the corresponding model concepts. A model of diffusion-limited aggregation of defects/particles implemented by the cellular automaton method from the Neumann neighborhood, a model of random and ballistic deposition, as well as a percolation approach are considered. The process of modification and development of a 3D fractured structure based on the Griffiths load theory for dislocations is described, taking into account the gradual sequential transition from a stable state to a growth stage. As a result of the action of such dynamic loads in a solidstate object, a rapid change in the parameters of microcracking is observed, which can be represented as local micro-explosions, viz. the growth and fusion of natural microcracks into larger ones; the emergence of new microcracks; the disclosure of large microcracks with the formation of defects of the next hierarchical level. In the overview aspect, the universal modes of operation of a nonlinear dynamic system, well-known in mathematics and physics and suitable for analyzing the stability and sustainability of thermal power plants, are considered. The ongoing processes are associated with different types and strategies for the development of heterogeneities, such as: collapse and stagnation; stable periodicity; parameters “at odds”; chaotic development within certain limits; disruption/sudden crisis; a sharp leap and a breakthrough in development. The proposed approaches can be useful in improving the real operational condition of chambers with working matter in power plants when they operate in various operating modes.

The article discusses the methods of substitution of a compound motor load as a consumer of higher harmonics. Two substitution schemes were used. The calculation of the complex resistance against them was compared with the results of simulation modeling. The simulation was carried out in the MATLAB Simulink environment, with the use of the Specialized Power Systems library, in which a simulation model with motors and a source of harmonic distortion was developed. Five asynchronous motors with a squirrel-cage rotor of the AIR brand with powers varying from 0.75 to 5.50 kW were selected for the study. The simulation was carried out at different motor loads. The shaft torque varied with values of 50; 70; 90 and 100 % of the nominal values of each motor. A six-pulse diode rectifier was used as a source of harmonic currents in the network, generating harmonics with numbers 5, 7, ..., 25, corresponding to a pulse rate equal to six. Oscillograms of currents and voltages were recorded at the point of common connection of asynchronous motors and the rectifier, which were subsequently used to calculate the complex resistance. Based on the results of the work, amplitude-frequency and phase-frequency characteristics of the impedance of a composite motor load were obtained, the analysis of which revealed the incongruence of calculation methods with simulation modeling. Conclusions have been drawn on the need to continue research in this direction, since there are qualitative discrepancies in the functional dependence of the complex resistance on the harmonic number with the experimental data obtained for a single asynchronous motor. The results of the work can be used in calculating the voltage distortion factor and modeling modes associated with higher harmonics both at existing enterprises and during their design, which will increase the reliability and efficiency of electrical networks.

Abstract Marl soil is highly prone to erosion when exposed to water flow, posing a potential threat to structural stability. The common practice of stabilizing soil involves the addition of cement and lime. However, persistent reports of severe ruptures in many stabilized soils, even after extended periods, have raised concerns. In stabilized marls, unexpected ruptures primarily result from the formation of ettringite, which gradually damages the soil structure. This article aims to assess the impact of nanosilica on the formation of ettringite and the nanostructure of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) during the marl soil stabilization process with lime. To achieve this, marl soil was stabilized with varying percentages of lime and nanosilica. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images were collected to observe changes in mineralogy and microstructural properties. Various geotechnical parameters, including granularity, Atterberg limits, compressive strength, and pH, were measured. The results indicate that the uniform distribution of nanosilica in marl-lime soils enhances pozzolanic activities, calcium aluminate hydrate growth (C-A-H), and the nanostructure of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). According to XRD and SEM experiments, the presence of nanosilica reduces the formation of ettringite. Moreover, the compressive strength of modified samples exhibited an upward trend. In the experimental sample manipulated with 1% nanosilica combined with 6% lime, the compressive strength increased by 1.84 MPa during the initial 7 days, representing an approximately 18-fold improvement compared to the control sample.

Los objetivos del trabajo son evaluar la evolución temporal y espacial de la recarga al Acuífero del Cuaternario del Campo de Cartagena desde 1970 a 2022 y generar mapas de entrada para un modelo numérico de flujo de agua subterránea. Para alcanzarlos se han recopilado datos meteorológicos, se ha compilado y contrastado la información disponible sobre los usos de suelo, poniendo especial atención en la evolución temporal de la distribución espacial, se ha calculado la recarga con el software VisualBALAN y se han generado mapas de recarga que reflejan la evolución espacial y temporal durante el periodo simulado, con el apoyo de QGIS. La recarga calculada se ha calibrado y validado con éxito con series piezométricas temporales. La recarga total media calculada es 91 hm3 año-1 para todo el periodo; los valores extremos son 24 hm3 en 1978 y 172 hm3 en 2008. Esto se traduce en un coeficiente de recarga promedio del 16%, un valor mínimo del 8% y un máximo del 24%.

Debido a su durabilidad, versatilidad y bajo coste, los productos plásticos resultan fundamentales en la sociedad actual; sin embargo, estas mismas propiedades, responsables de su gran popularidad, también convierten a estos materiales en una amenaza medioambiental, provocando serios problemas entre los que destaca la liberación de microplásticos (MPs). Los MPs, definidos como partículas poliméricas con un tamaño inferior a 5 mm, son muy diversos en cuanto a composición, tamaño y forma, siendo capaces además de transportar sobre su superficie otros contaminantes y microorganismos, lo que incrementa los potenciales efectos adversos de estas micropartículas. Aunque los MPs se encuentran de manera ubicua en todo el planeta, su presencia es notoria en los ecosistemas acuáticos, especialmente los marinos, ya que las masas de agua naturales reciben la gran mayoría de los plásticos vertidos al medioambiente. Recientemente, la biorremediación ha sido propuesta como una interesante alternativa para luchar contra la creciente problemática derivada de la contaminación plástica; por ello, el objetivo de la presente revisión bibliográfica es analizar las posibles vías de eliminación de los MPs de origen fósil y no biodegradables en entornos acuáticos, mediante bacterias, hongos y organismos superiores, recopilando los últimos avances en este campo.

La agricultura es una de las principales fuentes de contaminación difusa, cuya contaminación por nitrógeno y sedimentos de las son los principales impactos ambientales. Es por ello, que una adecuada gestión de estas zonas es necesaria. El presente estudio se llevó a cabo en la cuenca más meridional del Mar Menor, que se encuentra amenazado por la exportación difusa de nutrientes y sedimentos. Es por ello que este estudio evalúa la efectividad de varias actuaciones basadas en la Ley 3/2020, de recuperación y protección del Mar Menor para el control de las descargas de nitrógeno y sedimentos a la laguna. Los resultados de estas simulaciones mostraron que con el cumplimiento completo de la Ley 3/2020 es posible reducir de forma significativa la producción de sedimentos a la laguna, así como la exportación de nitrógeno en superficie y la lixiviación de nitratos.

En el presente artículo se evalúa la eficiencia de bioportadores de polietileno tereftalato (PET) reciclado para el tratamiento de aguas residuales municipales en reactores MBBR. En marco del objetivo, se caracterizó el agua residual y se estabilizó el proceso en los biorreactores experimentales hasta el desarrollo de la biopelícula. Posteriormente, se operó el sistema experimental a diferentes proporciones de llenado (50% y 30%) y tiempos de retención hidráulica (TRH) de 6 y 8 horas. Finalmente se analizó la calidad del efluente mediante la medición de temperatura, pH, DQO, DBO5, SST y Turbidez. Como resultado, se logró la formación de una biopelícula esponjosa poco compacta y delgada en tres semanas, con una remoción promedio de 81.80% para DBO5, 78.44% para DQO, 85.96% para SST y 94.13% para turbidez. Además, se comprobó que el factor de llenado tuvo efectos estadísticamente significativos y contribuyó más en la remoción de DBO5 y SST, mientras que el TRH fue más influyente en la remoción de DQO. Se concluye que los bioportadores de PET son eficientes y, según estándares normados, el efluente tratado es apto para ser vertido a un cuerpo hídrico natural y/o ser reutilizado para el riego de áreas verdes restringidas al público o de contacto indirecto u ocasional.

La escasez de agua y la creciente demanda de alimentos imponen la utilización de tecnologías más eficientes en el regadío. Por tal motivo, se abordaron los fundamentos hídricos e hidráulicos del riego subsuperficial a demanda mediante vasos comunicantes (RSVC), estudio de caso cultivo de col rizada. El sistema estuvo compuesto por un depósito de agua, una cubeta con carga hidráulica constante, una línea de derivación, laterales de riego, emisores y vasos de cultivo. La pérdida de carga en el sistema, para el lateral más alejado, fue 7.38491 mm.c.a., permitiendo operar a presiones muy bajas sin requerimiento energético. Debido a la continuidad hidráulica, generada por la tasa evapotranspirativa, los cultivos no sufrieron estrés hídrico, obteniéndose un rendimiento promedio de 360 g de materia fresca/planta, con una eficiencia de uso del agua de 22.38 g/l, rendimientos favorables cuando se compara con otros estudios.

Abstract Highway shoulder rocks are exposed to continuous erosion force due to extreme rainfall that could be caused by global warming to some extent. However, the logical design method for erosion-resistant highway shoulder is not well-researched yet. This study utilized a large-scale UNLETB (University of Nebraska Lincoln–Erosion Testing Bed) with a 7.6 cm nozzle width and a 4000 cm3/sec flow rate to study the erosion characteristics of highway shoulder rocks. Test results showed that different shoulder materials currently used had vastly diverse erosion resistance. However, the clear criteria between the erosion-resistant gradation and other gradation could not be determined easily. Then, this study trained ANN (Artificial Neural Network) with test results to conveniently distinguish the erosion resistance of rocks from other rocks. The ANN predicted the acceptable/non-acceptable erosion characteristics of shoulder rocks with close to 99% accuracy based on the three gradation parameters (D10, D30, and D60).

Abstract This study demonstrates the efficacy of employing Rhizopus oryzae fungus inoculum as a potential solution to improve soil erodibility in coastal environments. A set of unconfined compression tests is conducted on Miami Beach sand treated with a R. oryzae inoculum. Our findings suggest that the R. oryzae fungus inoculum effectively improves the stability of sand by acting as a natural binding agent. This finding aligns with previous studies that utilized different Rhizopus species, such as Rhizopus oligosporus, to improve sand properties. However, a notable difference is observed; the R. oryzae-treated sand exhibits remarkable durability, maintaining significant strength over an extended period without water or dietary supply. The durability is likely attributable to the morphological characteristics of R. oryzae that extensively branches its mycelial network. This paper shares the new discovery to the bio-geotechnics research community, potentially allowing for the customization of soil improvement process by choosing between the fast-acting R. oligosporus and the longer-lasting R. oryzae.

The Velachery Municipality is highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as Storms, and floods due to its geo-environmental settings. It is evident that the Nivar cyclone has severely hit and caused flooding in the Velachery region during the fourth week of November 2020. Along with the increasing urbanization, it is also expected to experience severe impacts of climate change soon. Urbanization exerts additional environmental stress and amplifies the impact of natural disasters. The study area has been divided into 3 clusters based on the geographical location. The survey has been carried out in 180 households and data was statically analyzed. Indicators such as exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity were grouped and aligned with available data. Data were aggregated using a composite index and Urban Flood Vulnerability was compared to Cluster wise. The results reveal an extreme variability in terms of flood magnitude and frequency in Velachery. The vulnerability spider diagram suggests that Cluster 2 is more vulnerable in terms of less capacity to cope, and Cluster 3 is more vulnerable in terms of Exposure, Health, Economic susceptibility, physical susceptibility, less capacity to anticipate, cope and recover. Overall Cluster 3 has higher flood vulnerability compared to other clusters. The identification of flood-vulnerable zones has been done in the study and recommended flood resilience measures for Velachery Municipality, Chennai.

The food processing industries produce large volumes of wastewaters but poor management has resulted to environmental problems. The reuse of such wastewaters as organic fertilizer containing essential plant nutrients for irrigational purposes is an attractive management strategy. The improper disposal and poor management of these wastewaters from some selected food industries within Makurdi, necessitated the assessment of the physicochemical characteristics, mineral constituents and water quality indices in comparison with FAO and WHO standard limits. Three (3) wastewater samples were collected from Seraph Oil Mill (SOWW), Miva Rice Nigeria Limited (MRWW), and Chile Fish Farm (CFWW). The wastewater samples were analyzed for the physicochemical properties and mineral elements using standard methods and micro-wave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES) respectively, and water quality indices calculated. The results of the physicochemical parameters revealed pH values ranging from 5.63 ± 0.57 to 7.60 ± 0.03, electric conductivity from 2.72 ± 0.01 to 206.5 ± 0.47 µScm−1, viscosity from 1.73 ± 0.01 to 93.3 ± 0.58 mPa.S, total solids (TS) ranged from 0.039 ± 0.001 to 3.02 ± 0.1 mgL−1, chemical oxygen demand (COD) ranged from 53.9 ± 4.7 26, 336.7 ± 398.0 mgL−1 while biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) ranged from 13.8 ± 0.92 to 23.3 ± 1.35 mgL−1. The mineral concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, Na, S, NO3, Cu, Pb, Cr ranged from below detection limit −280.13 ± 1.07 mgL−1 for SOWW wastewater, 0.04 ± 0.003-2344.02 ± 0.09 mgL−1 for MRWW wastewater and 0.017 ± 0.002–501.29 ± 0.09 mgL−1 in CFWW wastewater. All the heavy metals tested were within the permissible limits except for lead (Pb), with the value 0.103 ± 0.003 in SOWW sample. The microbial loads of the samples (total bacteria and total fungi) ranged from 0.72 x 106–13.0 x 106 and 0–14.0 x 104 respectively. The analysis revealed that there was no significance difference between the physicochemical properties and mineral compositions at p≤0.05. The water quality indices for the wastewaters irrigation suitability showed; 6.06–22.91% Sodium adsorption rate (SAR), 22.75–72.00% sodium (% Na), 9.66–31.89% soluble sodium (SSP), 7.91–29.50 magnesium absorption ratio (MR), 1.74–132.16 mg/L total dissolved solutes (TDS) and 0.11–0.46 Kelley’s ratio (KR). The findings indicated that the wastewaters were suitable for irrigation purposes except for the unsuitable values of Na % (72%) in SOWW. The overall water quality of the studied wastewaters is suitable for the growth of vegetables and other crops. This study will establish a baseline data for future research, because little/no information is available about the comparability and utilization of these wastewaters. If properly applied, these wastewaters can be used for the recycling of nutrients for vegetable irrigation, reduce pollution from indiscriminate disposal, and improve water quality.

Irrigation remains important to meet the needs of the people by increasing agricultural productivity. However, its water productivity in developing countries is low due to inefficient irrigation water management. The main objective of this study was to evaluate soil water, crop growth and nutrient dynamics under different irrigation techniques. Hydrus-1D model was used to simulate soil water content (SWC), actual evapotranspiration (ETa) and soil leachates. The model performance was evaluated by comparing the measured and simulated treatment variables. The Hydrus-1D performance showed good agreement between the observed and simulated SWC (R2 = 0.55–0.81; NRMSE = 0.01-0.09; d-index = 0.95-0.99) and with a very good agreement for nitrate-nitrogen (NO3–N) leaching (R2 = 0.97, d index = 0.99 and NRMSE = 0.02). Similarly, performance in simulating PO4-P were acceptable (R2 = 0.88; d index = 0.99; NRMSE = 0.04). The value of SWC (cm3 cm−3) ranged from 0.30 to 0.38 at 10 cm and from 0.27 to 0.37 at 20 cm soil depths. The seasonal drainage water was reduced to 86%, 87%, and 54 %, respectively for AFI, FFI, and OHI treatments compared with CFI treatment. The NO3–N leaching was reduced by 41%, 71%, and 83% under AFI, FFI, and OHI compared with CFI while phosphate – P (PO4-P) leaching was 60%, 66%, and 79.6%, respectively, lower in AFI, FFI, and OHI than CFI. The highest seasonal ETa (421.95 mm) was found in CFI while the lowest (335.22 mm) was found in AFI treatment. Besides, the highest IWP (9.11 kg/m3) was obtained from AFI technique indicating that that AFI was the most efficient irrigation technique in saving both nutrient and water under onion production. Hydrus-1D could be a successful tool for predicting water and nutrient transport management decisions to improve water and nutrient management.

The depletion of water resources has intensified with the evolving global climate change, leading to increased demands for water requirements in agricultural practices. In addressing these challenges, our consideration has centered on the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies. Lemon yields are diminishing due to the effects of severe climate change. To counter this decline, farmers resort to the application of nitrogen fertilizers in an attempt to boost yields. Nevertheless, the excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers has adverse effects on both plants and the environment. Therefore, two field experiments were carried out during the years 2021 and 2022 at the experimental farm (in the Nubaria region, Egypt) to examine the effects of two irrigation methods [conventional drip irrigation and pulse drip irrigation] and integrated nitrogen fertilization [five organo-mineral N fertilization rates OMN: OMN1 (100% mineral N + 0% organic N), OMN2 (75% MN + 25% ON), OMN3 (50% MN + 50% ON), OMN4 (25% MN + 75% ON), and OMN5 (0% MN + 100% ON)] on water productivity, lemon productivity, and fruit quality. In arid conditions, soil organic matter content, soil microorganisms activity, soil pH, water application efficiency, water stress inside the root zone, lemon productivity (LP), lemon water productivity (WPLemon), and lemon fruit quality were examined. The findings showed that the pulse drip irrigation approach improved LP, WPLemon, vitamin C, and lemon’s total soluble solids. The results also showed how integrated N-fertilization was important for increasing the proportion of organic component addition. Our findings suggested that applying pulsed drip irrigation coupled with integrating N-fertilization boosted water productivity, lemon productivity, and fruit quality. The highest outcomes were achieved when using pulse drip irrigation and 50% organic N + 50% mineral N-fertilizers.

Vertical pump systems are vital in industries like water treatment, power generation, and oil and gas production. Their efficiency depends on well-designed components, especially the main shaft connecting the motor to the pump impeller. Changes in shaft length greatly impact vibration, structure, and overall performance. Therefore, thorough evaluation of shaft length modifications is crucial for ensuring equipment suitability and long-term reliability. This study examines how changing shaft length in a vertical pump system, from 70 cm to 170 cm due to construction constraints, affects its performance. Using Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the study evaluates both shaft designs’ natural frequencies, critical speeds, and maximum stresses. Results reveal that the 170 cm shaft design is unsuitable, leading to increased stresses and a higher risk of vibration-induced failures compared to the original design. These findings stress the importance of controlling design parameters and conducting thorough analyses before implementing modifications to ensure reliability and operational stability. Unplanned design changes like shaft length modifications can severely impact pumping equipment performance, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and analysis prior to implementation. This research emphasizes the importance of considering shaft length in the design of vertical pump systems to ensure reliability. The findings offer valuable insights for engineers and designers to maintain long-term operational stability and performance. Ultimately, this improves safety and efficiency in industrial and municipal processes reliant on these pump systems.

Groundwater is considered an important source of water supply in Iraq, but the poor quality of water makes it unsuitable for drinking purposes. To enhance the groundwater quality, River Bank Filtration (RBF) method was investigated. It is a natural process in which wells along a riverbank are pumped, causing some of the river water to flow toward these wells. With this technique, water coming from the river is filtrated by soil deposits and then mixed with groundwater, improving its quality. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the implementation of the RBF technique to improve the poor quality of groundwater and get potable water. A study area was selected in Al Hindiyah District within Kerbala City, Iraq. Four wells (W1, W2, W3, and W4) with different distances from the Euphrates River bank (450 m, 720 m, 800 m, and 1950 m), respectively, were selected to examine the groundwater quality. The results were then compared to those for the Euphrates River. In addition, two boreholes (B.H.1 and B.H.2) of about 15 m depth were drilled near the riverbank to assess the soil properties of the studied area. The results showed that the groundwater quality at a depth more than 12 m enhanced as the well’s distance from the river bank decreased and got closer to the river. It was found that the water quality at pumping wells (W1, W2, and W3) is slightly polluted, which makes this area more suitable for groundwater abstraction to provide the best water quality. The poorest water quality was for W4 at 1950 m from the riverbank, which indicates that at this distance the river bank filtration process is eliminated.

This study investigated the potential use of biochar produced from Iraqi date kernels (Khestawi) as an adsorbent for methylene blue (MB) removal from polluted water. A full factorial design methodology was employed to examine the effects of heating rate, pyrolysis temperature and holding time on the performance of the produced biochar. The results showed that pyrolysis temperature and time had a strong effect on the biochar performance, while the heating rate had a weaker effect. The biochar produced at pyrolysis temperatures of 350°C and 550°C exhibited MB removal percentages (% R) of 48.9% and 30.9%, respectively. Similarly, biochar production through pyrolysis durations of 30 and 90 minutes resulted in MB removal rates of 47.5% and 30.3%, respectively. The adsorption experimental data was well-fitted by the Freundlich isotherm model, with a high value of the Freundlich constant (KF = 1.64), indicating a high adsorption capacity of the biochar. The activation of biochar using bio-oil (organic-1) led to a substantial enhancement in the adsorption capacity, with the activated biochar (ABC-1) exhibiting a higher adsorption capability and a higher value of the Freundlich constant (KF = 7.12). Overall, the results suggest that biochar produced from date kernels has the potential as an effective and sustainable adsorbent for MB removal from polluted water, with the potential for further enhancement through biochar activation.

The paper investigates the sources of water leakage in Mokattam, Cairo, Egypt. It is considered a high-risk zone for landslides due to the presence of problematic soil, topography, and water conditions. The objective is to mitigate the negative impact of underground water on landslide disasters. The proposed methodology involves field visits, satellite image processing, Ground Penetration Radar scanning, chemical and isotope analysis of water, and evaluating the water and sanitary networks within the study area. The findings revealed that the underground water is formed because of the continuous leakage from the existing networks. Moreover, there was no evidence of any aquifers, particularly at Ain Mosa floating point. Thus, the accumulated water in the unsaturated zone is not sustainable for long-term development for its limited potential and poor quality. Consequently, immediate action plan is required to assess and upgrade the water and sanitary networks through the implementation of innovative technologies for such hydrogeologic conditions

As a consequence of fresh water shortage, non-conventional water resources have become increasingly demandable in semi-arid and arid areas due to the increase in population and urbanization. In Egypt, the reuse of drainage water provides a demanding supplement to irrigation water. This research aims to present natural treatment process for drainage wastewater to be reused in irrigation to support water resources and water quality control. Two biological and chemical wastewater treatment techniques (Algae and Zeolite), under different conditions, were applied to allow the reuse of wastewater to be utilized in the agriculture of very economically important crop which is maize, and comparing the production and the chemical components of the crop with the one irrigated by fresh Nile water. Water, soil and plant analyses were performed. Zeolite was characterized by XRD, SEM and FTIR. Enzymes activities were assigned also (dehydrogenase, phosphatase and nitrogenase activities) and finally the statistical analysis was determined by CoStat software. The treated wastewater chemical and biological analyses showed much better results than El-Rahawy drain wastewater analyses. The plants growth parameters results showed the higher ones with plants subjected to the chemical and biological treatments. Protein and carbohydrate levels, which are the most important plant quality indicators, showed higher concentrations in the treated ones than that irrigated with Nile water. NPK concentration of both seeds and leaves also recorded better levels. The results of the enzymes activities in cases of T4, dehydrogenase, phosphatase, and nitrogenase enzyme activity were 127.66, 40.89, and 79.58, respectively, which increased when compared with control treated with Nile water which were (112.44, 28.4, and 41.39) for dehydrogenase, phosphatase and nitrogenase enzymes respectively.

The Egyptian water crisis has encouraged the exploration of innovative solutions for wastewater treatment. One promising approach is using treated agricultural drainage water for its large amount per year and low pollution. There are many methods used for the treatment of wastewater, but this research focused on a new one which is the use of microalgae for in-situ treatment of wastewater, due to its ability to uptake and adsorb pollutants, aerate water, and produce biomass for potential use as a biofuel or fertilizer. Microalgae have shown great potential for removing various pollutants from wastewater, including organic matter, nutrients, heavy metals, and pathogens. Moreover, the use of microalgae for wastewater treatment can be more cost-effective and sustainable than traditional wastewater treatment methods, which often require large and expensive infrastructure. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of using microalgae for in-situ treatment of agricultural drainage wastewater of Bahr El-Baqar drain. The results revealed that the removal efficiencies were 29% for BOD (biochemical oxygen demand), 46.9% for COD (chemical oxygen demand), 56.1% for TSS (total suspended solids), 31% for HM (Heavy Metal) removal, and 86% increment in DO (Dissolved Oxygen) concentration. This experiment provided evidence that microalgae could be a promising and cost-effective solution for in-situ treatment of agricultural drainage wastewater, with high removal efficiencies for pollutants in wastewater and the potential to reduce the need for constructing large and expensive wastewater treatment plants.

With increased length of the crest in a certain width range, the labyrinth weirs increase the discharge capacity. In this study, a laboratory flume was used with a length of 8 m and a width and height of 0.6 m, in which the hydraulic loss of linear/non-linear, labyrinth, triangular, and trapezoidal weirs were investigated. Dimensional analysis using the Buckingham methodology showed that the discharge coefficient (Cd) is a function of parameters such as hydraulic head ratio (Ht/P), weir shape factor (Sf), and hydraulic loss ratio (Hf/P). The results showed that the ATRL weir has a lower discharge coefficient than the ALR by 44% and ATPL a lower discharge coefficient than ALR by 50%. The ATRL weir has a higher hydraulic loss than ALR by 2300% and a higher hydraulic loss than ATPL by 2000%. The TRL weir has a higher hydraulic loss than LR by 4900% and a higher hydraulic loss than TPL by 5700%. The TRL weir has a lower discharge coefficient than LR by 41% and TPL by 43%. The best correlation with the Cubic statistical model was obtained in the TPL weir in terms of discharge coefficient and in the ALR weir in terms of hydraulic loss.

Water scarcity is one of the major critical affecting arid climate countries. In addition, population growth and climate change are threatening the sustainable development of water resources in the upcoming decades. Therefore, managing groundwater can solve water scarcity such that sustainable development is ensured for future generations. Hence, it is crucial to assess the current quantity of groundwater by analyzing groundwater variables. Thus, natural groundwater recharge could be utilized as an indicator to assess groundwater quantity conditions. This study aims to estimate natural groundwater recharge in an arid unconfined aquifer. El-Qaa plain in Sinai, Egypt was chosen as a case study. Recharge was estimated taking into consideration spatial and temporal variability. To accomplish this, the WetSpass (Water and Energy Transfer between Soil, Plants, and Atmosphere under quasi-Steady State) model was applied. The model was run using morphological, landuse – land cover and climate data from 1986 to 2015 with a monthly time step. To calibrate the model, the isotope signature of δ18O and δ2 H of water was analyzed to determine the natural groundwater recharge of the aquifer. The obtained recharge value was utilized as a reference value for the calibration process. The results were validated using a finite-difference groundwater flow model (MODFLOW). The recharge values were imported to MODFLOW followed via a transient run from 2000 to 2011. The validation was conducted by comparing the simulated groundwater level with the observed ones. After validation process, the inter-annual and seasonal variability of recharge were determined, and a relationship between recharge and other hydrological parameters was deduced. In addition, the recharge distribution was mapped to depict the recharge spatial variability. The results show that the current recharge rate ranges from approximately 8.10 to 16.62 mm/yr, with a mean annual recharge rate of nearly 12.36 mm/yr. The study might be useful for hydrogeologists for determining potential recharge in the study area, groundwater modelers for developing a reliable groundwater flow model, and decision-makers for planning appropriate future sustainable development through water resources management.

The Nile Delta aquifer stands as Egypt’s second primary freshwater source following the Nile River. Its replenishment deriveed from various sources, including the Nile branches, the surface irrigation networks, and the infiltration of excess irrigation water. The expanded demand for irrigation water causes water shortages at the canal tails of some irrigation canals across Egypt. Farmers have resorted to addressing this issue by illegally excavating shallow wells, employing them in times when surface water is inaccessible. Among the national action plans to improve water availability at canal tails is the lining of distributary canals. However, this intervention potentially obstructs the natural replenishment source of the Nile Delta aquifer, consequently contributing to the deterioration of groundwater quality. Hence, this research aims to evaluate the impacts of lining distributary canals on groundwater status through numerical modeling. Utilizing the MODFLOW package, the study determines the natural infiltration rates from the canals into the adjoining groundwater system. Two prevalent hydrological conditions in Egypt were selected for numerical modeling. The first case study focuses on a Canal, located in Qalyoubia governorate, represents the semi-confined aquifer conditions prevalent in the Nile Delta. The second case study is a Canal, situated in Sharqia governorate, represents the phreatic aquifer conditions present in the Nile Delta. Piezometers were implemented to determine the groundwater levels and for the calibration process. The calibrated models were employed to simulate the expected impacts of canal lining for each case and contrasted with pre-lining infiltration rates. Findings indicate that while canal lining effectively reduces water seepage into shallow groundwater in sandy soils, it is of little avail in clayey top soils. The research recommends implementing integrated water resource management to mitigate the possible impacts of lining. It also suggests prioritizing regular maintenance practices for canal linings, especially in areas with sandy soils.

Constructing dams is one of the human achievements in developing urban societies. In the last few decades, rapid growth in developing the Red Sea coast and Sinai in Egypt has taken place. According to the UN Nexus definition, water, energy, and food are the main sources of sustainable development. The dam gives the best structure that can fulfill these requirements. The geology of Egypt in the concerning areas in both the Red Sea and Sinai shows that both areas are mountainous areas. The wadies in these mountains suffer from being exposed to severe weathering conditions. Flash floods and wind blowing are the main causes of exposing sedimentary rocks in these Wadies to different degrees of weathering. The present paper focuses on studying the effect of weathering on the engineering behavior of dams intended to be constructed in these areas. The examined rock foundations cover mud-stone, Sand-stone, and limestone. A published numerical model for Longtan Dam was utilized as a reference case to construct a verified numerical model that was later employed in a parametric study to clear the effect of weathering on the studied sediment rock. The verification and parametric study were carried out using GeoStudio software. The results show the clear effect of the variation in weathering on the engineering parameters of the examined sedimentary rock deposits.

ABSTRACTWater scarcity is growing quickly, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions along with the growing population. So, using treated wastewater in agricultural irrigation presents a sustainable approach, enhancing soil quality, increasing organic carbon levels, and improving crop productivity are achieved through this approach, concurrently reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Yet, escalating industrial effluent discharge raises concerns regarding trace metals in wastewater and associated health risks. Our study in the Tenth of Ramadan City focused on employing secondary treated mixed industrial and municipal wastewater for olives, mandarins, and guavas. Sampling wastewater, soil, and plant parts, we analyzed their properties and trace element concentrations, employing Visual MINTEQ for geochemical speciation. Adhering to the international guidelines, the wastewater exhibited acceptable pH and alkalinity but showed concerning trace element levels for irrigation. Differences in soil composition and trace element concentrations suggest potential contamination in soils irrigated with wastewater, raising concerns about health risks associated with elevated metal levels in plants. Variations in trace element concentrations in guavas, olives, and mandarins’ leaves and fruits were observed, with efficient translocation in olives, while mandarin and guava displayed reduced efficiency. Bioaccumulation Factor trends indicated species-specific metal uptake differences. Waste “Minimization Prioritization Tool categorized” trace element levels as of low concern. Daily Intake of Trace Metals and Health Risk Index highlighted the need for health risk assessment, especially for elevated Ni in mandarins and guavas. Regression findings emphasized soil factors influencing metal uptake in plants, highlighting the need for vigilant soil management to curb trace element contamination in agriculture, ensuring both food safety and environmental health. Therefore, water reuse adds contributes to sustainable development, which is three dimensions; Economic, Social and Environmental. It improves economics to utilize water that would be otherwise wasted, and by making water more productive. It improves the social dimension by addressing water scarcity and satisfying the increasing water demand for sustainable livelihoods. It also improves the environment by increasing wastewater treatment levels and reducing pollution.

ABSTRACTHeavy metals cause alarming levels of environmental and health problems and among them Cadmium has become a threat to organisms and natural resources like soil and water alike. It accumulates in living systems thereby causing oxidative stress. Efforts are made for bioremediation of heavy metals by employing biosorption, which is a well-known economic method for removal and in the current study Selaginella bryopteris was used as biosorbent. The biosorption capacity was optimized by its physicochemical parameters such as pH, dosage, contact time, and temperature. Cadmium-induced Reactive Oxygen Species levels and the antioxidant potential of S. bryopteris in ameliorating them were studied in Drosophila melanogaster. Water-quality analysis was performed using Chemical Oxygen Demand(COD) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and effect of S.bryopteris on these parameters were also analyzed. Further the concentration of Cadmium via colorimetric assay and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy(AAS) was employed to quantify the Cadmium in lake water samples before and after treatment with biosorbent. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were performed to characterize the surface properties for adsorptive removal of metal ions, and antioxidant studies were conducted to assess the role of S. bryopteris in suppressing oxidative stress.

ABSTRACTThis study intends to investigate the fluvial-geomorphic change and erosion-accretion processes of two significant rivers. The 2149 km2 research area’s overall erosion and accretion were depicted using multi-temporal Landsat images and Normalized Difference Water Index, Modified Normalized Difference Water Index methods to measure and investigate change. However, focus has been placed on four unique sections that are prone to erosion, and the bank migration of the section has been measured in order to depict the actual state of erosion. The Padma-Meghna River eroded approximately 11.0, 77.0, and 13.0 km2 between 1973–1978, 1978–1989, and 1989–1994. However, 78.0 and 48.0 km2 of accretion occurred in the years between 1994 and 1999 and 1999 and 2004. Moreover, between 2004 and 2021, the river’s erosional activity was remarkably dynamic compared to deposition. Besides, 64 km2 and 4 km2 of land accretion occurred during 2008–2014 and 2014–2019, while 77 km2 and 68 km2 of land eroded during 2004–2008 and 2019–2021. The overall rates of erosion and accretion are 5.12% and 4.04%, respectively. Statistically, both banks of the Padma River eroded about 2 km from 1973 to 2021. Padma-Meghna confluences are more unstable and susceptible to change. The Meghna’s left bank moved 4.5 km east between Goshairhat and Haimchar in 1989, and in 2008, the river shifted 4.8 km west from the river of 1994. In 1989, it moved 5 km east from a previous location between Goshairhat and Haiderganj, and in 2008, it moved 6.3 km west from the 1989 river. The bank migrated 12 km eastward in 2014 from where it was in 2008 through the bar development. The Mehendiganj Upazila’s eastern side lost more than 7.4 km between 1973 and 2021, and the current major channel is simply 7.4 km west of the 1973 river. The findings of the dynamic changes might be useful to planners, developers, researchers, and government agencies as they develop and put into practice new development initiatives and river basin management.