Permeable pavement hydraulic optimization by using an analytical-probabilistic model

Abstract

On-source storage controls are a sustainable solution for stormwater management in a scenario of continuous urban area growth. Structures that manage storage volumes through infiltration include extra environmental benefits, such as groundwater recharge, evapotranspiration, and pollutant load removal. Permeable pavement systems are among these controls and can easily integrate into dense urban areas, resulting in paved surfaces contributing to stormwater management. The shift toward on-source strategies is encouraged through regulations, policies, incentives, and awareness campaigns, which are substantially increasing their dissemination. Optimizing the design of on-source storage controls with infiltration, such as permeable pavement systems, through robust methodologies can reduce reservoir depth, reducing environmental impact and costs without impact on reliability. The analytical-probabilistic (AP) method using derived probability distribution theory from rainfall event characteristics and the mathematical description of hydrologic processes within the permeable pavement systems provides an analytical equation that can be used as a design tool, proving robustness analogous with continuous simulations. Results obtained with the AP method were compared with traditional event-based methodologies and continuous simulation, assessing the reliability of the proposed method in optimizing permeable pavement systems' reservoir depth. HIGHLIGHTS Permeable pavement systems are stormwater controls with temporary storage and infiltration, providing multiple benefits for the environment.; This research proposes an analytical equation derived from probability distribution theory that can be used as a design tool for permeable pavement systems.; The analytical probabilistic model was compared with event-based methods and continuous simulation.; The analytical probabilistic model as a design tool provides reliability analogous to continuous simulations.;

Keywords

• hydraulic design
• permeable pavement systems
• probabilistic methods of stormwater management
• sustainable urban drainage