TSS Removal Efficiency and Permeability Degradation of Sand Filters in Permeable Pavement

Abstract

Permeable pavement is a highly effective technology in Low-Impact Development (LID) for managing stormwater runoff, which helps mitigate environmental impacts. Filters are essential components of permeable pavement systems as they prevent permeability reduction, remove pollutants, and enhance the system’s overall efficiency. This research paper focuses on exploring the influence of three factors, including total suspended solids (TSS) particle size, TSS concentration, and hydraulic gradient, on the permeability degradation and TSS removal efficiency of sand filters. A series of tests were conducted using different values of these factors. The results demonstrate that these factors have an influence on permeability degradation and TSS removal efficiency (TRE). A larger TSS particle size results in higher permeability degradation and TRE than a smaller particle size. Higher TSS concentrations lead to higher permeability degradation and lower TRE. Additionally, smaller hydraulic gradients are associated with higher permeability degradation and TRE. However, the influence of TSS concentration and hydraulic gradient seems less significant than that of TSS particle size for the values of the factors considered in the tests. In summary, this study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of sand filters in permeable pavement and identifies the main factors that influence permeability degradation and TRE.