Water is one of the most essential and scarce resources provided by nature to humanity. It is the most extensively used and common liquid on the Earth. However, despite its availability, we must recognize that this life-sustaining resource is finite. Therefore, it is crucial to conserve every single drop also Water sustainability has emerged as a critical global issue, driven by the increasing scarcity of freshwater resources and the growing demand for drinking water. The Kurdistan Region of Iraq, particularly the city of Sulaymaniyah, faces significant challenges in this regard. Over the past decades, the region has experienced a marked decline in groundwater levels, exacerbated by several factors. Population growth, coupled with the migration of a substantial number of southern Iraqis to the area, has intensified the demand for water. Additionally, the region experiences limited rainfall during the rainy season and Sulaymaniyah are currently experiencing a severe hydrological drought, characterized by a significant reduction in groundwater levels, surface water, and the flow of streams and rivers across the region.". The presence of numerous concrete factories, the steady rise in temperatures, and the absence of adequate dam infrastructure have further strained the region's water resources. These factors underscore the urgent need to explore alternative water sources to mitigate the impending water crisis. The depletion of groundwater is not just an environmental concern but also a socio-economic challenge. The lack of reliable water sources has hindered agricultural activities, which are vital for the region's economy. Farmers are struggling to maintain crop yields, leading to reduced food security and increased reliance on imported goods. Moreover, the construction industry, which is a major consumer of water, faces operational difficulties. The concrete industry, in particular, is heavily dependent on a consistent water supply for mixing and curing processes. The diminishing water availability threatens the continuity of construction projects, potentially slowing down urban development and infrastructure expansion in the region. This study aims to examine the effects of using three different water sources—potable water (serving as the control), Tanjero River wastewater, and Sulaymaniyah city well water—on the properties of concrete. The research is focused on understanding how these water sources influence the on concrete strength and bonding with steel reinforcement. Concrete samples were prepared and cast into molds, followed by curing in a water tank. Over a period of 28 days, the performance of the concrete mixes was evaluated through compressive, flexural, and pull-out tests. The results of the study demonstrated significant variations in concrete strength based on the water source utilized. At 28 days, the compressive strength of concrete mixed with Portable water, Tanjero River wastewater, and Sulaymaniyah city well water was measured at 30.03 MPa, 15.97 MPa, and 34.03 MPa, respectively. Similarly, the flexural strength values were 4.86 MPa, 2.45 MPa, and 7.25 MPa, while pull-out test bond load measurements were 481.70 kN, 320.7 kN, and 596.13 kN, respectively. Notably, the strength of concrete mixed with Tanjero River wastewater decreased by over 50%. These findings suggest that while well water and Tanjero River wastewater are relatively suitable for concrete mixing, the use of Sulaymaniyah city wastewater may significantly compromise the structural integrity of the concrete, particularly when used in full concentration. The study's implications extend beyond the construction industry, highlighting the broader impacts of water scarcity on regional development. As the demand for sustainable water management grows, the findings underscore the necessity for innovative approaches to water use in industrial applications. Implementing effective water recycling and conservation strategies could alleviate some of the pressure on natural water resources, ensuring the long-term viability of both the construction sector and the broader regional economy.
