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Study on physical clogging process and practical application of horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland.
Shuqun Dai1, Ruida Wang2, Jiawei Lin3
1Department of Landscape and Architecture, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou, 311300, China.
Scientific Reports
|January 3, 2025
Summary
Physical clogging in rural artificial wetlands is a major challenge. Adding vertical baffles significantly extends system lifespan and improves wastewater treatment efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Wastewater Treatment Technologies
- Rural Water Management
Background:
- Addressing the increasing challenge of rural wastewater discharges requires effective decentralized treatment solutions.
- Physical clogging is a significant operational issue in small-scale horizontal submerged flow artificial wetlands, impacting hydraulic efficiency.
- Decentralized wastewater treatment systems are crucial for improving sanitation in rural areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phenomenon of physical clogging in small-scale horizontal submerged flow artificial wetlands.
- To evaluate the impact of clogging on the hydraulic efficiency of these systems.
- To propose and validate an innovative design strategy to mitigate clogging and enhance performance.
Main Methods:
- Experimental analysis of physical clogging in artificial wetland systems.
- Computational Fluid Dynamics - Electrical Discharge Machining (CFD-EDM) numerical simulations to model clogging effects.
- Design and implementation of a modified artificial wetland system with vertical baffles for rural application.
Main Results:
- The addition of vertical baffles was identified as an effective design strategy to combat clogging.
- Experimental results showed a 15% prolongation in the duration of complete system clogging with vertical baffles.
- Hydraulic efficiency was enhanced by 21% following the implementation of the vertical baffle design.
Conclusions:
- Vertical baffles represent a novel and effective solution for prolonging the operational life of artificial wetlands by mitigating physical clogging.
- The modified small-scale horizontal submerged artificial wetland system demonstrates improved wastewater treatment and contributes to a better rural landscape.
- This study provides a rational and effective sewage treatment solution for rural areas, enhancing both environmental quality and public health.
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