Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
4389731 | Ecological Engineering | 2013 | 7 Pages |
The use of compact vertical flow constructed wetlands is becoming increasingly popular in France to treat raw domestic wastewater. This system enables the use of a single deep stage rather than two stages and therefore dramatically reduces the capital costs. A compact vertical flow constructed wetland known as Ecophyltre® was investigated. This system was partially filled with a light expanded schist (Mayennite®) designed to reduce the surface area to 1.2 m2 pe−1. The aim of this work was to highlight relationships between Mayennite® characteristics with biological activity and treatment performances. After 12 months of operation, the total accumulated dry matter quantity was around 5 kg m−2 (20% on the surface). Between 70% and 80% of the microorganisms respiration was principally measured in the top layer of Ecophyltre® during the first year of operation. However, biological activity was shared between the two Mayennite® layers over time. Results showed that Mayennite® retention enabled to kept around 15% water in mass enhancing microorganisms growing. Removal performances of this system met the French standards (35 mg TSS l−1; 25 mg BOD l−1; 125 mg COD l−1).