Laboratory study of the unit for reservoir aeration using solar radiation under Syrian conditions

Abstract

Purpose: experimental study and assessment of technical capabilities of a device for aerating the water bottom layers in reservoirs using solar radiation in Syrian conditions. Materials and methods. Empirical method was adopted as a research method. In accordance with the patent for a utility model, the experimental unit was a metal cylindrical body of a storage tank, in the lower part of which there was a fitting connected to a plastic air tube. Results. In the process of laboratory studies under conditions of different air temperatures, when assessing the capabilities of the unit, three characteristic periods of its operation were identified: intensive – a period with active air output lasting 110–120 minutes; transitional – with a gradual drop in intensity by more than half, lasting from 10 to 30 minutes; stable – a period with an almost uniform air output with a maximum observable duration of up to 60 minutes. An analysis of research materials showed that, depending on the daytime temperature, the air volume released during more than 180 minutes of observation was up to 7.6 liters. Moreover, in all experiments, more than 90 % of the air volume came out during the first 120 minutes, which should be considered as the period of active operation of the unit. Conclusions. Based on the results of experiments in an open area in the climatic conditions of Syria, the possibility of aerating natural reservoirs using a device for aerating bottom layers of water, the operation of which is based on the use of solar radiation without traditional energy sources, was proven.

Keywords

• reservoir
• aeration facility
• solar radiation
• pilot plant
• depth
• water level