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

Zhang, Yufan

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

Description

Title

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

Author(s)

Zhang, Yufan

Issue Date

2023-12-01

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Bhattarai, Rabin

Doctoral Committee Chair(s)

Bhattarai, Rabin

Committee Member(s)

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

Department of Study

Engineering Administration

Discipline

Agricultural & Biological Engr

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Degree Level

Dissertation

Keyword(s)

• Sediment control
• Water quality
• Construction
• Roadway runoff

Abstract

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.

Graduation Semester

2023-12

Type of Resource

Thesis

Handle URL

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

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2023 Yufan Zhang

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