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Long-term environmental performance of precast slabs in permeable pavements: hydraulic functionality and pollutant retention in a real-life installation
Summary
Researchers assessed the long-term environmental performance of precast permeable pavement slabs in a real-world installation, finding that accumulated contaminants including microplastics build up within the porous structure over time. The study highlights the dual role of permeable pavements as both stormwater management infrastructure and a potential reservoir for pollutants requiring periodic maintenance.
Abstract Permeable pavements are increasingly integrated into the urban built environment as sustainable surface systems that enhance stormwater infiltration, mitigate runoff, and contribute to pollutant control. However, long-term accumulation of contaminants within their porous structure may impair hydraulic performance and compromise their environmental functionality, particularly regarding microplastics (MPs), a persistent and emerging pollutant of growing concern in cities. This study investigates the five-year environmental performance of porous concrete pavement slabs operating in a real urban setting, focusing on changes in infiltration capacity and the retention of nutrients, suspended solids, and MPs. A dual methodology, combining continuous on-site permeability monitoring with laboratory analyses of aged slabs, was employed to assess degradation patterns and recovery potential following maintenance. Results show a 48% decline in infiltration over five years, with a 42.5% recovery after pressure cleaning. Substantial pollutant accumulation was observed in used slabs, including increases of + 258% in COD, + 123% in total phosphorus, + 28% in total nitrogen, and + 48% in suspended solids. MP abundance reached 10272 ± 5829 MPs/m², 7.5 times higher than in new slabs, dominated by fibers (≈ 70%) and polymers such as PE, PP, and PET. These findings highlight the dual role of permeable pavements as hydraulic infrastructure and contaminant sinks within the built environment, providing evidence-based insights for improving maintenance strategies, enhancing urban resilience, and supporting the long-term sustainability of nature-based stormwater solutions.
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