Sustainable Flood Mitigation: Improving Stormwater Infrastructure with PVC for Enhanced Hydraulic Performance

Abstract

The escalating impacts of climate change, coupled with rapid urbanization, have placed unprecedented strain on existing stormwater infrastructure. Frequent and intense rainfall events often overwhelm aging stormwater channels and ditches, leading to flooding and property damage. Traditional upgrades, such as concrete lining, are often costly and disruptive. This research explores the potential of PVC sheets as a viable and cost-effective solution to enhance the hydraulic capacity of these channels. By lining the slopes and bases of stormwater channels with PVC, we can significantly reduce the roughness coefficient, thereby improving flow efficiency and increasing the channel’s capacity to handle larger volumes of stormwater. PVC lining is relatively inexpensive, durable and resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-term performance and reducing maintenance costs. Computational analysis has demonstrated the effectiveness of PVC lining, showing that it can increase channel capacity while minimizing costs and disruptions. This innovative approach presents a promising solution for municipalities seeking to adapt to changing climate conditions and ensure the resilience of their stormwater systems.