Evaluation of Nutrients and Suspended Solids Removal by Stormwater Control Measures Using High-Flow Media
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 144, Issue 10
Abstract
High-flow media (HFM) are able to treat large runoff volumes using small-footprint systems. Four full-scale HFM stormwater control measures (SCMs) in a residential area were monitored over 11 months to assess the removal of total suspended solids (TSS), nitrogen, and phosphorus in first-flush (FF) stormwater runoff. Excellent removal of TSS and particulate-bound nutrients is noted, but, in most SCMs, removal of dissolved species is limited. Sorption of dissolved P occurs, although most likely on captured sediment and not on the HFM itself. N removal varies among the systems, but, in general, mineralization and nitrification of accumulated N species in the SCMs leads to nitrate export. FF is present in TSS (strongest), total nitrogen, and total phosphorous (weakest). HFM grain size and organic content do not significantly impact TSS or P removal, but higher organic content is associated with higher N removal. Optimal HFM SCM design incorporates sedimentation before filtration to minimize clogging concerns.
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Acknowledgments
This research was funded by the Prince George’s County Department of the Environment, Maryland, United States.
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Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 144 • Issue 10 • October 2018
Copyright
©2018 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 23, 2017
Accepted: May 2, 2018
Published online: Aug 3, 2018
Published in print: Oct 1, 2018
Discussion open until: Jan 3, 2019
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