"Wisdom begins in wonder" – Socrates
Category: Urban Systems
Settling (Liquids)
04/09/26
“How do particulates move to the bottom of a liquid and become sediment?”
Particulates may enter liquids by several means. Over time, the particles will move downwards in the fluid and collect into larger sediment. This Settling process is how processes like sedimentation happen.
Supercritical Flow
04/04/26
“What are the special properties of water flow that’s fast and shallow?”
Water flow can come in all shapes, sizes, and speeds. Water flow that’s fast and shallow, and whose internal forces affect movement more than gravity, is classified as Supercritical Flow. Supercritical flow is fast and powerful and can resist downstream changes. Consequently, critical flow is more affected by upstream than downstream elements.
Geotextiles
04/02/26
“How can we use synthetic fabrics to improve soil behavior?”
Soils often need interventions to make them perform well. One way is to implement synthetic, permeable fabrics called Geotextiles into the soil. Geotextiles can aid in separation (preventing mixing of different soil layers), filtration (allowing water to pass through while holding soil particles back), drainage (soil dewatering), reinforcement (adding strength and stability to geotextiles), and protection (protecting soils from external damage).
Image credit: https://www.kakwastone.com/
In-Situ Groundwater Remediation
04/01/26
“How can we clean groundwater without removing it?”
Groundwater can become contaminated through a variety of means. Although it’s common to remove groundwater to clean it, wouldn’t it be great if we could separate toxins from groundwater while it sits in place? Well, what if we were to inject a cleaning agent or mechanisms directly into the groundwater? This process is known as In-Situ Groundwater Remediation, and it’s a growing field of study.
BOD Deoxygenization Rate
03/31/26
“How can we measure the rate at which microorganisms consume oxygen to remove organic matter?”
Microorganisms use oxygen to remove organic matter. The BOD Deoxygenization Rate, or the rate at which microorganisms use oxygen to remove organic matter, is proportional to the amount of BOD remaining. This is important for understanding if a wastewater body is going to become oxygen-deprived.
Subcritical Flow
03/30/26
“What are the special properties of slow-moving, tranquil flows in channels?”
Slow-moving, tranquil flows in channels may seem simple. But if you dig deeper, you will find it more interesting. These flows, known as Subcritical Flows, are typically deep and dominated by gravity. The slow-moving and gravity-centric flow can be greatly affected by downstream elements like dams because it does not have enough momentum to overcome such heavy changes.
HDPE Pipes
03/28/26
“What material makes durable, flexible, long-lasting pipes?”
Many old pipes have issues with corrosion, leakages, and longevity. High-density polyethylene pipes, or HDPE Pipes, use a type of plastic that makes them durable, flexible, and long-lasting. Consequently, HDPE pipes are extensively used in long-distance transport applications.
Image credit: https://www.piedmontplastics.com/
When to Use The Manning vs. Hazen-Williams Equation
03/27/29
“When do we use the Manning vs Hazen-Williams Equation?”
People use both the Manning and Hazen-Williams equations to calculate water flow. But when is the right time to use each? Well, the Manning Equation is used for open channel or partially full sewers, while the Hazen-Williams Equation is used for full, pressurized circular pipe flow. Keep this information in mind when you think about When to Use The Manning vs. Hazen-Williams Equation.
Plumbing Fixtures
03/25/26
“What do we call household devices that connect to the plumbing system?”
Water to your house on demand is becoming more common around the world. Devices that can attach to the plumbing system are known as Plumbing Fixtures. Example fixtures include bathtubs, showers, toilets, and sinks.
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