Abstract
The factors which control the rate and extent of ion sorption on peat and other wetland soils have not been fully elucidated. Rates are fast in comparison to typical biological processes, thus suggesting a rapid capture mechanism such as adsorption, which can make nutrients more readily available to the organisms present. The presence of these fast sorption mechanisms results in the observed first-order removal rates in wetland systems. Information is lacking on the temperature dependence of adsorption rates, and it is conceivable that during winter operation the sorption step may provide a significant resistance to nutrient removal. Operating experience with wetland treatment systems has revealed an apparent nutrient saturation phenomenon in the vicinity of wastewater introduction; this behavior is consistent with an approach to an adsorption equilibrium. The rate of nutrient removal in unsaturated zones may be limited only by mass transfer. 32 references, 11 figures.
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