Tracer behavior of a series stabilization ponds

• Guillermo Villasmil Universidad del Zulia-Venezuela
• José Sánchez Universidad del Zulia-Venezuela
• Gerardo Aldana Universidad del Zulia-Venezuela
• Nibis Bracho Universidad del Zulia-Venezuela

Palabras clave: stabilization ponds, tracer, behavior of tracer, homogenization, physical model

Resumen

The flow behavior of a series of stabilization ponds (facultative, maturation 1 and 2) located in La Universidad del Zulia, was studied by means of the employment of a tracer (triatied water). The main objective of this research was to determine the hydraulic behavior based on the distribution of the tracer concentrations in each pond. For the samples collection, the ponds were divided into grids according to their dimensions, on the surface as well as on the bottom. The tracer behavior was followed through the contour graphs by ponds. In the graphs high concentrations of the tracer were mainly observated in the corners of the ponds. The facultative pond, maturation 1 and maturation 2 were evaluated and in the results observed in the first pond, the top level dispersion flow was higher than the bottom level and the existence of anomalous flow caused flow interruption in the body water. Dead zones in the body of water were detected. The pond of maturation 1 was evaluated also, and the best homogenization of the tracer was found on the surface. This could mean it was possible to find plug flow at the top level probably due to this pond having transversal baffles. The influence of the wind, as a external variable, on the superficial level of the facultative pond was determined, and it was estimated that the most unfavorable form of the inlet and outlet flow weirs was when they were aligned.