A finite element approach to modelling the hydrological regime in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment

Paul R. Knowles*, Philip A. Davies

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Published conference outputChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

Abstract

A Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model is used to explore the relationship between clogging and hydraulics that occurs in Horizontal Subsurface Flow Treatment Wetlands (HSSF TWs) in the United Kingdom (UK). Clogging is assumed to be caused by particle transport and an existing single collector efficiency model is implemented to describe this behaviour. The flow model was validated against HSSF TW survey results obtained from the literature. The model successfully simulated the influence of overland flow on hydrodynamics, and the interaction between vertical flow through the low permeability surface layer and the horizontal flow of the saturated water table. The clogging model described the development of clogging within the system but under-predicted the extent of clogging which occurred over 15 years. This is because important clogging mechanisms were not considered by the model, such as biomass growth and vegetation establishment. The model showed the usefulness of FEA for linking hydraulic and clogging phenomenon in HSSF TWs and could be extended to include treatment processes.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationWater and nutrient management in natural and constructed wetlands
EditorsJan Vymazal
Place of PublicationNetherlands
PublisherSpringer
Pages85-101
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)978-90-481-9585-5
ISBN (Print)978-90-481-9584-8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011

Keywords

  • clogging
  • horizontal subsurface flow
  • hydraulics
  • modelling
  • suspended solids

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A finite element approach to modelling the hydrological regime in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this