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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
10:35
A Protocol for Conducting Rainfall Simulation to Study Soil Runoff
Published on: April 3, 2014
Towards a generic rainfall-runoff model for green roofs.
H Kasmin1, V R Stovin, E A Hathway
1Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S13JD, UK. h.kasmin@sheffield.ac.uk
Summary
A conceptual model accurately simulates green roof hydrology, reproducing monitored data. Evapotranspiration (ET) is quantified using four methods, with potential for temperature-based ET estimation and standardized lab tests.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Hydrology
- Green infrastructure
Background:
- Green roofs mitigate urban stormwater runoff.
- Accurate modeling of green roof hydrological processes is essential for effective stormwater management.
- Quantifying evapotranspiration (ET) from green roofs remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a conceptual model for green roof hydrological processes.
- To evaluate methods for quantifying evapotranspiration (ET) in green roof systems.
- To assess the potential of using local temperature data for ET estimation.
Main Methods:
- A conceptual model incorporating substrate moisture and transient storage was developed.
- Monitored data from a storm event and continuous simulation were used for model validation.
- Four distinct approaches were employed to estimate monthly ET values.
Main Results:
- The conceptual model successfully reproduced monitored hydrological data.
- Analysis included antecedent dry weather periods, initial losses, and continuous simulation calibration.
- Methods for ET quantification included data analysis, model calibration, the Thornthwaite formula, and laboratory measurements.
Conclusions:
- The developed model effectively simulates green roof hydrological behavior.
- The Thornthwaite ET formula shows promise for estimating monthly ET using temperature data.
- Standardized laboratory testing could quantify substrate-specific ET variations.
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