Research Article
Design Challenges and Water Harvesting Performance of Small Dams in Sudan (2010–2019)
Hummam Mohammed Yousif*
,
Mona Adam Gumma Rabih
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 1, June 2026
Pages:
1-4
Received:
5 February 2026
Accepted:
31 March 2026
Published:
16 May 2026
Abstract: Water harvesting (WH) is a critical strategy for addressing water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions, where communities rely on limited rainfall to sustain domestic supply, livestock, and agricultural production. This study evaluates the design, construction, and operational performance of small water-harvesting dams constructed in Sudan between 2010 and 2019. A basin-based analytical framework was applied to describe hydrological conditions and manage uncertainties inherent in data-scarce environments. The methodology integrates regional and empirical flood-estimation techniques with assessment of key design parameters, evaluation of construction practices, and qualitative risk analysis. Results indicate that, despite their relatively small size, these dams face engineering challenges comparable to larger dams, particularly in terms of hydrological uncertainty, seepage control, reservoir tightness, and limited site-investigation data. The absence of continuous hydrometric records complicates flood-frequency analysis and spillway design, increasing uncertainty and operational risk. The study underscores the importance of incorporating risk-informed design approaches and strengthening hydrological and geotechnical investigations to enhance safety, functionality, and long-term performance of small dams in Sudan. Additionally, it highlights the need for systematic monitoring and adaptive management strategies to mitigate extreme events, optimize water utilization, and support sustainable rural development in dryland regions increasingly affected by climate variability and growing water demand.
Abstract: Water harvesting (WH) is a critical strategy for addressing water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions, where communities rely on limited rainfall to sustain domestic supply, livestock, and agricultural production. This study evaluates the design, construction, and operational performance of small water-harvesting dams constructed in Sudan betwee...
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Research Article
Aircraft Impact Response of Concrete Gravity Dams:
A Finite Element Study
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 1, June 2026
Pages:
5-19
Received:
25 March 2026
Accepted:
9 May 2026
Published:
5 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajcbm.20261001.12
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Abstract: The safety of critical infrastructures like concrete gravity dams against high-strain dynamic loads has gained significant attention due to their strategic importance. This study presents a finite element analysis to evaluate the structural response of five differently shaped concrete gravity dam models under aircraft impact loading. A three-dimensional simulation was performed using the Finite Element Method (FEM), employing the Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP) model to accurately capture the nonlinear behavior of concrete under high-strain rates. The impact of a Phantom F4 aircraft impacting at a velocity of 215 m/s, simulated using Riera’s reaction-time force history, targeting the freeboard region of each dam model. Comparative analysis revealed that the maximum deformation (620 mm) and tensile damage were concentrated around the impact zone, particularly for Dam 1, while other dam geometries exhibited distributed stress patterns and lesser damage. Stress-time history plots demonstrated tensile dominance near the impact region and compressive dominance near the dam base. The findings indicate that dam geometry significantly influences the damage and stress distribution under aircraft impact, with certain profiles being more vulnerable. This research provides critical insights for the design and assessment of concrete gravity dams to enhance their resilience against potential high-energy impact scenarios.
Abstract: The safety of critical infrastructures like concrete gravity dams against high-strain dynamic loads has gained significant attention due to their strategic importance. This study presents a finite element analysis to evaluate the structural response of five differently shaped concrete gravity dam models under aircraft impact loading. A three-dimens...
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