This study delivers the first comprehensive microzonation-based seismic risk assessment for the Al-Seeb region in Muscat, Oman. It integrates geotechnical, structural, environmental, and socio-economic vulnerability factors using a Geographical Information System (GIS) based multi-criteria framework. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to systematically weight and integrate these indicators, ensuring an objective evaluation of their relative influence on overall seismic vulnerability. Moving beyond traditional methods, it translates microzonation data into spatially distributed Average Annual Loss (AAL) zones and estimates economic impacts through Loss Exceedance Curves (LEC) and Probable Maximum Loss (PML). By coupling detailed hazard zonation with building typologies and infrastructure exposure, the study develops an asset-level risk profile, revealing sharp spatial variations in seismic risk driven by site conditions and construction quality. The results serve as a vital planning tool for civil authorities, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) 11. The approach offers a scalable model for rapidly urbanizing Gulf cities such as Doha, Riyadh, Dubai, and Kuwait, providing a data-informed foundation for enhancing infrastructure resilience and strengthening disaster risk management strategies.
This paper presents a reproducible experimental and statistical methodology for evaluating the thermo-mechanical response of marble and granite subjected to extreme temperature conditions. The method is designed to support rock mechanics applications in fire-affected structures, geothermal systems, and underground engineering. Two varieties of Makrana marble and two types of granite were systematically heated from 35 °C to 600 °C using a controlled thermal protocol. Changes in density and uniaxial compressive strength were measured following standardized testing procedures to quantify thermal damage and mechanical degradation. A statistical analysis framework, including regression modeling and Pearson’s correlation analysis, was implemented to characterize the relationships between temperature and rock properties. The proposed methodology enables consistent assessment of thermal sensitivity in crystalline rocks and can be readily adapted for other lithologies and high-temperature engineering scenarios. This work provides a practical reference for researchers seeking standardized experimental and analytical approaches to evaluate rock performance under elevated temperatures.
Proper solid waste disposal is a major socioeconomic and environmental issue in developing countries, including Ethiopia. This study identifies suitable landfill sites and assesses socioeconomic impacts of existing waste sites in Adi Gudom town, northern Ethiopia, using GIS-based Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and field assessment. Road, river, water well, land use/cover, slope, lithology, soil, and sensitive places (churches/mosques, school) were the primary criteria. Data from 130 households were collected via questionnaires to assess waste’s impact on health, economy, society, and environment, and analyzed with descriptive statistics. Results show major environmental problems: 6
The growing demand for mineral resources has substantially increased anthropogenic pressures on environmental systems worldwide [...]
