Particle Destabilization in Highway Runoff to Optimize Pollutant Removal
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 133, Issue 4
Abstract
Sedimentation column studies and simulations using particle size distribution suggest that low removal efficiencies of smaller particles in highway runoff would be obtained using sedimentation if coagulation-flocculation is not performed. Coagulation-flocculation studies, using metal salts (alum and ferric chloride) and one organic polymer in three molecular weights, were evaluated over the 2004–2005 storm seasons. Only the first flush or approximately the first hour of runoff was coagulated. Efficiencies were quantified with particle size distribution measurements and turbidity. Results with low dosages of metal salts were ineffective and did not improve water quality. High dosages of metal salts using a sweep floc mechanism were effective in dramatically lowering runoff turbidity, but resulted in large quantities of sludge production and required pH control. A cationic organic polymer at low dosages was effective in coagulating highway runoff and reducing particle charge. Extended mixing time was required to achieve low turbidities ( NTU). A combination of organic polymer, followed by small doses of alum , reduced mixing time and produced high quality effluent.
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Acknowledgments
This study was supported in part by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Division of Environmental Analysis. The writers are grateful to their continuous support.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 133 • Issue 4 • April 2007
Pages: 426 - 434
Copyright
© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Jul 13, 2006
Accepted: Sep 18, 2006
Published online: Apr 1, 2007
Published in print: Apr 2007
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