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https://www.nationalacademies.org/trb/events

SHALLOW-WATER ROADSIDE DITCHES FOR STORMWATER PURIFICATION

The potential of shallow-water ditches adjacent to impervious roadways for hydrocarbon-degradation and deposition of heavy metals was assessed. Bacteria present in soils at the edge of pavement and in aerobic ditches produced significantly greater degradation of petroleum products relative to anaerobic ditches and dry areas 20 feet from the pavement. The metals examined in the field were those from automobile emissions and wear of automotive parts. These are: lead, zinc, copper, chromium, and nickel. Cadmium content was also measured. The highest concentrations of metals were found in the plant and animal populations. However, these contained the least mass. Soils adjacent to the edge of pavement contain the greatest mass of metals. In general, the top soil contained higher concentrations of metals relative to subsurface soils. Lead was shown to be relatively immobilized by the soil. Other metals were more mobile. Soils in areas where rainfall excess appears as overland flow most likely can retain more than 10 times their existing lead content. (Author)

  • Corporate Authors:

    Florida Department of Transportation

    Bureau of Environment, Haydon Burns Building
    Tallahassee, FL  United States  32301
  • Authors:
    • Wanielista, M P
    • Gennaro, N G
    • Bell, J H
    • Johnson, B S
  • Publication Date: 1978-3

Media Info

  • Features: Appendices; Figures; References; Tables;
  • Pagination: 75 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00349250
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: FL-ER-3-78
  • Files: TRIS, STATEDOT
  • Created Date: Jun 30 1982 12:00AM