Evaluation of sediment control practices for perimeter barrier: Experiments and modeling

The growing concern over soil erosion on high-sloped construction areas and sedimentation on nearby water bodies necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of existing erosion and sediment control measures to mitigate the environmental impact. Considering erosion control is not applicable on some sites where frequent land cutting and grading occur, sediment control plays an important role in preventing pollutants from exiting a certain construction area. This dissertation investigates the effectiveness of various sediment control practices for perimeter control through a combination of experimental studies and modeling approaches. A series of plot-scale tests has been conducted at Erosion Control Research and Training Center (ECRTC) at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to evaluate the effectiveness of vegetative filter strips (VFS) and some structural sediment perimeter barriers (SPBs) including silt fence, sediment log, and coconut coir log, etc. The experimental findings serve as a foundation for the development and validation of numerical models, enabling a predictive understanding of runoff and sediment transport dynamics. The integration of experimental data with modeling techniques enhances the ability to offer practical insights and recommendations for optimizing perimeter control practices. In addition, a statistical prediction model was developed to aid VFS design. The study not only contributes to the refinement of existing control methods but also provides valuable insights into the improvement and implementation of currently used test standards by doing a comprehensive literature review. To improve the deficiency of simulating structural SPBs, a framework was developed in Vegetative Filter Strip Modeling System (VFSMOD). This research offered a holistic perspective on sediment control practices for perimeter control. The quantitative outcomes aim to inform environmental policymakers, civil engineers, and land managers, providing evidence-based guidance for sustainable soil conservation and watershed management.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Agricultural & Biological Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2023

Author dc:creator

• Zhang, Yufan

Contributors dc:contributor

• Bhattarai, Rabin
• Kalita, Prasanta
• Davidson, Paul
• Schmidt, Arthur

• Sediment Control
• Water Quality
• Construction
• Roadway Runoff

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2023 Yufan Zhang

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/122166

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F122166