Metal Removal Technologies for Urban Stormwater

This report examines innovative methods for removing heavy metals from stormwater runoff. The project team focused on two removal methods: media filtration systems and swales. The researchers initially evaluated 12 types of media filters, then conducted an in-depth study of the best-performing three—peat-sand mix, compost, and zeolite. They found that it is important to analyze the stormwater before selecting a media filter, because different media work better for different types or quantities of metals, pH, or other runoff characteristics. The researchers also evaluated the effectiveness of different hydraulic characteristics and grass species in swales. The complete final report is available online as PDF (97IRM2). Key findings are also summarized in a companion Research Digest (97IRM2RD) available as hardcopy and PDF. Published by WERF.

Originally funded as WERF project 97-IRM-2.