PERVIOUS CONCRETE: THE INVESTIGATION OF A STORMWATER FILTRATION TECHNIQUE

Pervious concrete pavement is a unique and effective way to capture stormwater and allow it to seep into the ground thus recharging groundwater, reducing stormwater runoff, and meeting U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stormwater regulations. This system has been recommended by EPA and geotechnical engineers as a Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the management of stormwater runoff. This pavement technology creates more efficient land use by eliminating the need for retention ponds, swales, and other stormwater management devices. Pervious surface treatments retain the water sub-surface as it gradually infiltrates into the soil; holding the storm water in multiple air voids or cells also assisting in water quality through degradation of hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water, and retaining metals in the structure keeps them from the groundwater table (Hun-Dorris, 2005). Despite the use of pervious systems for nearly 30 years in the US, not a lot of research has been performed on the long term absorption of contaminants in the concrete microstructure. Several studies showcase the removal efficiency of these pavements in the first few years of service, stating it has shown above a 75 percent efficiency in removal of contaminants (Rushton, 2002). This investigation focused on various pervious concrete treatments determining optimum strength, voids, infiltration and voids. Additionally geochemical work on trace metal adsorption, major element adverse affects and water quality benefits was performed on existing lots on MTSU campus.