Research and engineering application of bypass combined artificial wetlands system to improve river water quality

Abstract

In this study, a water body enhancement project is conducted in Baozi River in Wuhan City, using ecological aeration, surface flow artificial wetlands, ecological gravel beds, ecological wetland multi-pond systems, underwater forest systems, and other components of the bypass treatment system as the main treatment measures. Additionally, aquatic plants are planted, ecological floating islands are installed, and a bottom sediment purifier is used as auxiliary treatment measures to improve the river water quality comprehensively. Results show that the combined process operates stably and can efficiently remove pollutants in the water body. The final monitored results show that the amount of ammonia nitrogen (NH3−N) is less than 1.0 mg/L, total phosphorus (TP) is less than 0.2 mg/L, chemical oxygen demand (COD) is less than 20 mg/L, dissolved oxygen (DO) exceeds 5 mg/L, and transparency exceeds 60 cm. Furthermore, the water quality of the river is improved from Class V water to Class III water of the China Surface Water Environmental Quality Standard (GB3838-2002), which shows the effectiveness of the water quality improvement method. Using this method to rebuild the water ecosystem improves the water quality, local urban image, environmental quality, and living environment. The combined technology can serve as reference for urban river water quality improvement.