Impact of a submerged zone and a carbon source on heavy metal removal in stormwater biofilters

Abstract

Biofilters are an effective treatment option for the substantial heavy metal loads in urban stormwater. However, to increase their nitrogen treatment efficacy, the introduction of a submerged (anoxic) zone (SZ) and a cellulose based carbon source (C) has been recommended because it has been shown to enhance denitrification and thereby increase overall nitrogen removal. To examine the impact of this design modification on heavy metal treatment, a laboratory study using biofilter mesocosms with different levels of SZ and with or without added C was conducted. The results show that SZ and C have a significant impact on metal treatment. In particular, the removal of Cu was improved significantly..