Removing nitrogen and phosphorus simultaneously in stormwater runoff using permeable asphalt pavement system with a zeolite-regulated reservoir

Abstract

Stormwater runoff is identified as a major source of pollution in water bodies, and to limit the impact of these pollutants on groundwater quality, permeable asphalt pavement systems (PAPS) have been built worldwide. But so far, few have considered zeolite or regulated zeolite as a post-treatment in reservoirs in PAPS. This study aimed at investigating the efficiencies of modified zeolites in removing NH+4-N and TP from stormwater runoff and providing a novel insight into the research on the reuse of stormwater runoff by PAPS. The effect of PAPS with a zeolite-regulated reservoir on removing nutrient in stormwater was explored by artificial rainfall experiments and temporary storage experiments. Results showed that the removal rate of NH+4-N and TP in PAPS with a regulated-zeolite reservoir increased by 23.7% and 37.2%, respectively, during simulated rainfall events when compared to those without a regulated-zeolite reservoir. TP was mainly removed by the form of phosphorus precipitation such as Zr(H2PO4)2. Ion exchange and adsorption during the temporary storage period were considered as the main approaches for removal of NH+4-N and TP. This study can help develop an optimal strategy for the operation of PAPS in treating stormwater runoff from urban roads.