Improvements in Standardized Testing for Evaluating Sediment Barrier Performance: Design of a Full-Scale Testing Apparatus
Publication: Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 143, Issue 8
Abstract
Perimeter controls [i.e., sediment barriers (SBs) or sediment retention devices] are typically used on construction sites to retain sediment and prevent polluted stormwater runoff from adversely affecting aquatic habitats and clogging storm sewers. Often, parameters based on rule-of-thumb are applied to the design of SBs without knowing their expected performance capabilities. This issue is further complicated by the difficulty in devising a scientifically sound, repeatable testing methodology, replicating field conditions to assess performance. To resolve this issue, a test apparatus was designed and constructed at the Auburn University—Erosion and Sediment Control Test Facility to replicate in-field rainfall runoff rates for purposes of conducting full-scale experiments on various SBs. This apparatus allows for performance testing and direct comparisons between various SB products, practices, and installations. The overall intent of conducting full-scale testing is to improve design criteria and enhance the in-field performance of SB practices. Initial test results for a woven polypropylene silt fence reinforced with a polypropylene grid and supported by wooden posts performed well structurally with an average sediment retention rate of 90.5% by volume.
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Acknowledgments
This paper is based on a study sponsored by ALDOT and the Auburn University Highway Research Center. The authors gratefully acknowledge this financial support. The findings, opinions, and conclusions expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the sponsor.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 143 • Issue 8 • August 2017
Copyright
©2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jul 13, 2016
Accepted: Jan 30, 2017
Published online: Jun 7, 2017
Published in print: Aug 1, 2017
Discussion open until: Nov 7, 2017
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