ASEA SEC 05


PLANTER BOX RAINGARDEN FOR ZINC REMOVAL FROM STORM WATER

MOHAMMAD RAMEZANIANPOUR, ALEX LEVIEN, GEORGE RITCHIE


Abstract

Urbanization creates problems for the natural water systems, such as an increase in run- off volume due to the impervious surfaces and a negative impact on groundwater recharge. These changes and exposure to contaminants such as suspended/dissolved solids and heavy metals severely degrade stormwater quality. In Christchurch, heavy metals such as zinc found in run-off, which is mainly sourced from galvanized roofing. The main idea of this research is to solve run-off issues at the source, along with the construction phase. This idea is aligned with the NZ's Unitary Plan to keep rainwater run-off after a new development equal or less than the run-off that occurred before the development. Different methods of treatment for roof run-off were evaluated in this research to propose a sustainable solution followed by an assessment. A multi-layered planter box raingarden was selected since it helps to landscape, improve water quality, and perform as an attenuation device. The research concentrated on maximizing water quality while maintaining a required flowrate. The planter box raingarden performed at a low vertical hydraulic conductivity rate of 164 mm/hr and achieved a high removal rate for heavy metals. The removal rate for dissolved zinc and total zinc was 99.7% and 99.1%, respectively. The results explained that the planter box raingarden performs well as an attenuation device while adsorb and filter contaminants remarkably.

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