Abstract
The formation of snow-dirt sludge (SDS) via the mixing of snow and surface-deposited sediment by vehicles and pedestrians is one of the least studied sedimentation processes in urban areas. The aim of this study was to analyse the material, mineral, particle size, and chemical compositions of the SDS solid phase. The study was conducted using Ekaterinburg, Russia, as an example city with an intense anthropogenic impact and a long cold snowy period. The average content of the SDS solid phase was approximately 35 g L−1 of meltwater on heavy traffic roads, of which the dust fraction (<0.1 mm) accounted for 23 g L−1. On driveways and lawns, the contents of the SDS solid phase were 12 and 6.6 g L−1, respectively. The mineral composition of the SDS solid phase was generally similar to the geology of the surrounding area, which is composed of a mosaicked combination of felsic and mafic complexes. The presence of building material fragments and other anthropogenic particles confirms the significant anthropogenic impact. The chemical composition contained major and minor elements specific to the minerals and materials that constitute the SDS solid phase. There was significant variability in the concentrations of Pb, Cu, and Zn in the granulometric fractions, indicating pollution. Intensive melting of SDS with a high particulate matter (PM) content is an important factor influencing the environmental quality of the urban environment.
Highlights
The formation of snow-dirt sludge (SDS) via the mixing of snow and surface-deposited sediment by vehicles and pedestrians is one of the least studied sedimentation processes in urban areas
Contemporary sedimentation processes play a significant role in shaping urban environmental quality
Sediment deposited on various urban surfaces, such as roads, sidewalks, driveways, and playgrounds, is referred here as urban surface deposited sediment (USDS) and is considered a particular compartment of the urban environment
Summary
The formation of snow-dirt sludge (SDS) via the mixing of snow and surface-deposited sediment by vehicles and pedestrians is one of the least studied sedimentation processes in urban areas. The chemical composition contained major and minor elements specific to the minerals and materials that constitute the SDS solid phase. Deposition on roads is commonly considered the most significant sedimentation process in the urban environment[3,4,5]. The intermediate stages of the sediment cascade are associated with the deposition and storage of USDS, and they reduce the environmental quality and contribute to unfavourable perceptions of the urban environment. Chemical and granulometric analysis of USDS, in particular road-deposited sediment, is included in several cities’ environmental monitoring programmes[15,16]. Rainwater and meltwater runoff represent a significant stage in the sediment cascade because they capture and transport USDS into depressed parts of the landscape and storm sewers. Lateral sediment transport driven by water runoff is enhanced on the impervious surfaces common in the urban environment[19]
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