Investigation of sewer exfiltration using integral pumping tests and wastewater indicators

摘要: Abstract Leaky sewers affect urban groundwater by the exfiltration of untreated wastewater. However, impact sewer on is poorly understood. Most studies focus water exfiltration, but not quality. In this paper we present a new monitoring approach to estimate mass flow rates Mex different wastewater indicators (WWIs) from leaky applying integral pumping tests (IPTs). The problem detecting and assessing heterogeneous concentrations in vicinity can be overcome with IPT investigation large volumes up- downstream sewers. increase section used calculate numerical model. was first applied using four wells Leipzig (Germany). Over period five days sampled inorganic WWIs: B , Cl−, K+, NO3−, NH4+ three xenobiotics: bisphenol-a, caffeine tonalide. resulting concentration–time series indicated an influence at one well sewer. We defined ranges implementing uncertainty chemical analyses. results showed 0–10.9 g m− 1 d− 1. combination target yielded rate Qex 28.0–63.9 L m− 1 d− 1 for conservative ion Cl−. non-conservative WWIs reduced that indicate depletion during their passage well. Application methodology other field sites possible. provides reliable values help assess groundwater.