Performance Evaluation of Baffled and Floating Hybrid Constructed Wetland Operated under Field Conditions

Abstract

Baffled and Floating Hybrid Constructed Wetland (BFHCW) consisting of constructed wetland with brickbat medium and Floating Treatment Wetland (FTW) was developed and operated under actual field flow conditions. BFHCW was vegetated with dual-species (Typha angustifolia L. and Canna indica). The performance of continuously operated system was evaluated for varied Hydraulic Loading Rate (HLR) and Organic Loading Rate (OLR) for a longer period. The system was also assessed for controlled flow rate resulting more uniform OLR and HLR. The results showed that COD removal efficiency was enhanced by 5 to 15% with controlled flow than uncontrolled highly fluctuating flow conditions. HLR has more impact on COD removal than OLR. BFHCW is effective to an extent of 25 to 40% for COD removal. BFHCW is found to be cost effective and reasonably efficient treatment for pretreated domestic wastewater.