Science vs Reality
Science vs Reality - Case Study of System Effectiveness
Dr Mark Gross
College of Engineering
Department of Civil Engineering
Bell Engineering Center, Rm. 4146
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Sometimes, in spite of well-planned, well-intentioned efforts, research
projects do not reflect commonly-accepted performance assumptions. A
laboratory study of pressurized distribution compared to gravity distribution
gave expected results, with the pressurized system providing better
wastewater quality than the gravity system. The pressurized distribution
system evenly distributed the septic tank effluent (STE) over the soil
absorption area, while the gravity system loaded a small, localized area of
the soil absorption area. Applying the experimental procedures to the field
resulted in numerous challenges and some unexpected results. Using
monitoring well and lysimeter results showed little or no difference in
treatment between the two systems. The dichotomy of what some have
termed "smart design" as opposed to "black box design" was not as easy to
discern as some would expect. Applying laboratory-derived models to the
highly variable, non-homogeneous world encountered in the field may not be
as simple as applied scientists may expect.
Please address any questions to Dr. David Lindbo.
This page created by
Roland O.
Coburn,
Research Technician I
on 2/18/03.