A Multi-Model Simulation Framework for the 'Sponge Park' Concept: Achieving Urban Water-Energy Nexus Sustainability in Hyper-Arid Climates

Abstract

Firas Fayssal

A schematic cross-section illustrates rainfall infiltration through silica-sand pervious pavements (porosity = 35%, K_s = 4,080 mm h⁻¹) and breathable aquicludes (APAC, air permeability = 6.08 L m⁻² s⁻¹), underground honeycomb reservoirs (2 m depth, HDPE- lined), and vegetation zones returning moisture via evapotranspiration. The closed water–energy loop captures, filters, stores, reuses, and cools the urban microclimate. Key simulated metrics (95th percentile): <0.1% runoff under 50 mm/24 h storms; 5,240 ± 520 m³ yr⁻¹ harvested water; 98.0 ± 2.1% SS, 93.9 ± 4.2% COD removal; 9.32 ± 0.93 GJ yr⁻¹ heat absorption per 1,000 m²; 0.4–0.6 °C microclimate cooling (simulated).

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