Journal Description
Water
Water
is a peer-reviewed, open access journal on water science and technology, including the ecology and management of water resources, and is published semimonthly online by MDPI. Water collaborates with the International Conference on Flood Management (ICFM) and Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI). In addition, the American Institute of Hydrology (AIH), The Polish Limnological Society (PLS) and Japanese Society of Physical Hydrology (JSPH) are affiliated with Water and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, GEOBASE, GeoRef, PubAg, AGRIS, CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Water Resources) / CiteScore - Q1 (Water Science and Technology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Water include: GeoHazards and Hydrobiology.
Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.5 (2022)
Latest Articles
Characteristics and Sources of Heavy Metals Pollution in Surface Sediments: An Integrated Land–Sea Comparative Analysis in Dingzi Bay, South Yellow Sea
Water 2024, 16(12), 1692; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121692 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
Systematic and scientific assessments on heavy metal pollution are greatly important to protecting the coastal eco-environment. In this paper, the spatial distribution, pollution degree, ecological toxicity and possible sources of eight heavy metal elements collected from the 126 marine and 715 terrestrial surface
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Systematic and scientific assessments on heavy metal pollution are greatly important to protecting the coastal eco-environment. In this paper, the spatial distribution, pollution degree, ecological toxicity and possible sources of eight heavy metal elements collected from the 126 marine and 715 terrestrial surface sediments surrounding Dingzi Bay were analyzed by obtaining concentration measurements. The results revealed that the concentrations of heavy metals followed a pattern: inner bay > terrestrial areas > outer bay. Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Hg were found to accumulate in fine particles (<0.063 mm), while As showed an association with specific particles (>0.25 mm and <0.016 mm). Spatial pollution patterns varied from non-polluted to low pollution levels overall, with localized contamination by individual elements. In addition to natural sources, four types of anthropogenic pollution were identified in the marine and terrestrial settings. Agricultural pollution, characterized by As predominance, exerted profound effects on both terrestrial and marine environments. Industrial pollution, featuring Hg dominance, was widespread in land environment and predominantly linked to atmospheric deposition. Traffic pollution, marked by elevated Pb and Cd, was concentrated around factories and densely populated areas. Maritime pollution, comprising Hg, Cr, Cd, and Zn, primarily occurred in the nearshore areas outside the bay. The findings of this study provide scientific data to the authorities in charge of sustainable coastal zone management in the South Yellow Sea.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Marine Sedimentation and Geological Processes)
Open AccessArticle
Framework Model for Financing Sustainable Water and Sanitation Infrastructure in Zimbabwe
by
Justice Mundonde and Patricia Lindelwa Makoni
Water 2024, 16(12), 1691; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121691 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
Financing frameworks for Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are lacking in developing countries. This study aims to develop a financing framework for adoption for water and sanitation PPP infrastructure projects in Zimbabwe. Using data covering a 25-year period from 1996 to 2021, Tobit econometric models
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Financing frameworks for Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are lacking in developing countries. This study aims to develop a financing framework for adoption for water and sanitation PPP infrastructure projects in Zimbabwe. Using data covering a 25-year period from 1996 to 2021, Tobit econometric models are applied to the secondary data collected from both international and domestic sources. The results of this study confirm that capital market variables, bank market development, and economic affluence drive the financing of water and sanitation Public–Private Partnership infrastructure projects in Zimbabwe. It was also established that both public and private sources of finance are instrumental in financing water and sanitation PPP projects. The results inform our eventual framework model, which integrates the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) models, sources of finance for water and sanitation PPPs, and the drivers of water and sanitation PPP finance. This study recommends the application of the developed framework in the water and sanitation Public–Private Partnership infrastructure financing policy of developing countries so as to capitalise on the strengths, resources, and networks of the respective stakeholders in the PPPs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Resources Management, Policy and Governance)
Open AccessArticle
Recovery of Sb(Ⅲ) from Aqueous Solution as Cubic Sb2O3 by Fluidized-Bed Granulation Process
by
Jingjing Yang, Jie Zhang, Jintong Liu, Quanxin Yang, Bingdang Wu, Xiaoyi Xu and Tianyin Huang
Water 2024, 16(12), 1690; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121690 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
In order to recover the antimony from wastewater, a custom-designed fluidized-bed reactor (FBR) was employed to treat antimony-containing wastewater. By single-factor experiments, the effects of the solution pH, the molar ratio of [TA]/[Sb3+], the seed size and dosage, the up-flow velocity
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In order to recover the antimony from wastewater, a custom-designed fluidized-bed reactor (FBR) was employed to treat antimony-containing wastewater. By single-factor experiments, the effects of the solution pH, the molar ratio of [TA]/[Sb3+], the seed size and dosage, the up-flow velocity (U), and the hydraulic retention time (HRT) on antimony recovery were investigated based on the antimony removal and granulation efficiency. The optimum conditions for antimony recovery were obtained at pH 9.0, the molar ratio of [TA]/[Sb3+] of 2, 6 g/L of 13–38 μm Sb2O3 as the fluidized seed, and the U and HRT of 42 m/h and 40 min, respectively; the antimony removal and granulation efficiency reached 95% and 91%, respectively. The granular products were analyzed by an X-ray polycrystalline diffractometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as cubic Sb2O3, widely used in various industries. The fluidized-bed reactor was operated continuously for 7 days, during which the antimony removal and granulation efficiency were stable at 96% and 93%, respectively. This study demonstrated the feasibility of the fluidized-bed granulation process for the recovery of antimony from wastewater. It provides a novel approach for retrieving and managing antimony-containing wastewater.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Treatment and Disinfection Technologies for Water and Wastewater)
Open AccessArticle
Stability Analysis of Breakwater Armor Blocks Based on Deep Learning
by
Pengrui Zhu, Xin Bai, Hongbiao Liu and Yibo Zhao
Water 2024, 16(12), 1689; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121689 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2024
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This paper aims to use deep learning algorithms to identify and study the stability of breakwater armor blocks. It introduces a posture identification model for fender blocks using a Mask Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN), which has been enhanced by considering factors affecting
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This paper aims to use deep learning algorithms to identify and study the stability of breakwater armor blocks. It introduces a posture identification model for fender blocks using a Mask Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN), which has been enhanced by considering factors affecting breakwater fender blocks. Furthermore, a wave prediction model for breakwaters is developed by integrating Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERTs) with Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM). The performance of these models is evaluated. The results show that the accuracy of the Mask R-CNN and its comparison algorithms initially increases and then decreases with higher Intersection Over Union (IOU) thresholds, peaking at 95.16% accuracy at an IOU threshold of 0.5. The BERT-BiLSTM wave prediction model maintains a loss value around 0.01 and an accuracy of approximately 90.00%. These results suggest that the proposed models offer more accurate stability assessments of breakwater armor blocks. By combining the random forest prediction model with BiLSTM, the wave characteristics and fender posture can be predicted better, offering reliable decision support for breakwater engineering.
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Open AccessArticle
Dynamics of Phytoplankton Communities and Environmental Drivers in Chinese Mitten Crab Aquaculture Ponds: Highlighting the Need for Cyanobacteria Control
by
Luqi Jin, Anjie Ding, Jianwei Lin, Xugan Wu and Gaohua Ji
Water 2024, 16(12), 1688; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121688 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
Pond culture is the primary method for cultivating Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis), with phytoplankton significantly influencing their growth. Green algae benefit crab growth by serving as supplementary food, while cyanobacteria, particularly during blooms, hinder it and pose health risks. Environmental
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Pond culture is the primary method for cultivating Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis), with phytoplankton significantly influencing their growth. Green algae benefit crab growth by serving as supplementary food, while cyanobacteria, particularly during blooms, hinder it and pose health risks. Environmental changes in nutrient levels, temperature, and light significantly affect phytoplankton communities in ponds, impacting both ecosystem stability and crab growth. However, there is a limited understanding regarding the patterns of phytoplankton changes within adult Chinese mitten crab culture ponds. This study conducted monthly collection and analysis of phytoplankton throughout the culture cycle in typical adult Chinese mitten crab culture ponds, concurrently measuring physical and chemical water parameters to explore the correlation between phytoplankton changes and environmental factors. The results revealed distinct seasonal variations in phytoplankton composition. Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta, such as Chlorella, Pediastrum, and Cocconeis, predominated in spring, while Chlorophyta and cyanobacteria, such as Volvox, Anabaena, and Microcystis, dominated in summer, and cyanobacteria and Bacillariophyta, such as Microcystis, Dolichospermum, and Cocconeis, prevailed in autumn. Total phytoplankton density consistently increased throughout the culture period. Microcystis constituted the majority of cyanobacteria biomass throughout most months. Although the total phytoplankton biomass fluctuated, cyanobacteria biomass consistently rose each month, reaching a peak of 61.7 mg/L in October. Water temperature and pH emerged as the primary environmental drivers influencing changes in phytoplankton community structure. Cyanobacteria density reached its peak between 18 and 26 °C and at a pH range of 7.5–8.5. These findings highlight the need for environmental regulation and cyanobacteria control in Chinese mitten crab culture ponds, thus promoting the health and sustainability of the Chinese mitten crab culture.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquaculture Water Safety)
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Open AccessArticle
Unraveling the Sea Slug Fauna from an Extremely Variable Environment, The ‘Passetto’ Rocky Tide Pools (North Adriatic Sea)
by
Yann Toso, Francesco Martini, Agnese Riccardi and Giulia Furfaro
Water 2024, 16(12), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121687 (registering DOI) - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is known to be a hot spot for marine biodiversity, especially if considering the highly specialized Heterobranchia mollusks. In recent years, there has been increasing effort to fill some knowledge gaps existing on Mediterranean heterobranch diversity, but, to date, several
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The Mediterranean Sea is known to be a hot spot for marine biodiversity, especially if considering the highly specialized Heterobranchia mollusks. In recent years, there has been increasing effort to fill some knowledge gaps existing on Mediterranean heterobranch diversity, but, to date, several potentially interesting habitats remain unexplored. In fact, most studies have been focused on sea slugs inhabiting coastal areas and lakes, but those living in extremely variable areas like Mediterranean rocky tide pools remain almost completely ignored even if it is reported worldwide that they can host a high sea slug diversity. In this context, the rocky tide pool system near the ‘Passetto’ urban beach (Ancona, Italy) in the North Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean Sea) represents a biodiversity hot spot, highlighting the importance of the conservation of this peculiar habitat. A preliminary quantitative survey on the associated Heterobranchia unveiled a thriving community residing in this limited and fragile habitat, and it inspired a more detailed investigation as performed in the present study. In order to reveal the presence of species that have gone unnoticed, an in-depth study was carried out between 2018 and 2022, which aimed to amplify the knowledge on this vulnerable environment and the fauna associated with this as yet poorly known habitat. Tide pooling activities corroborated by photographic analyses allowed the recording of 45 taxa in total and the addition of 25 species to the previously known list. Within those, (i) two species were potentially new to science, (ii) one was recorded in the Mediterranean Sea for the first time, (iii) two species were added to the Italian fauna, and (iv) one species constituted a new record for Sector 9 of the Italian Seas.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implementation of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Marine Ecosystem Management, Volume III)
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Open AccessArticle
Bollard Force Study Based on Vibration Frequency Method
by
Zhibo Zhou, Haicheng Liu, Pu Zhang, Songgui Chen, Hanbao Chen and Yingtao Zhu
Water 2024, 16(12), 1686; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121686 - 13 Jun 2024
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Existing bollard force measurement methods have not yet been able to realise simple, accurate, and efficient measurements of the bollard force of a single ship’s cable. In this paper, an experimental study on the measurement of ship bollard force is carried out with
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Existing bollard force measurement methods have not yet been able to realise simple, accurate, and efficient measurements of the bollard force of a single ship’s cable. In this paper, an experimental study on the measurement of ship bollard force is carried out with reference to the calculation method of measuring the cable force of a diagonal cable. Based on the fundamental frequency method and the frequency difference method, a new comprehensive method is proposed to detect the fundamental frequency of cable vibration. A study on the identification of the cable condition based on the measured vibration data is also carried out. Experimental studies on the error rate of different data acquisition positions, excitation methods, excitation positions, wetted cables, different temperatures, and other influencing factors were conducted, and a new excitation method based on environmental excitation and artificial excitation was proposed. By analysing the calculated values of the vibration frequency method and the tensile values of the prototype test platform, it is concluded that the data acquisition position, excitation position, and excitation method have a small influence on the measured value of the ship’s bollard force, and the range of the error rate increases by about 1.5% under the wetting of the cable and ±2% under the low temperature (2 °C), with the integrated error range of −5% to 4%, and the error rate can satisfy the normal distribution well, and the measurement accuracy is corrected by correcting the length of the cable. The measurement accuracy is corrected by correcting the cable length. It is proved that the method has strong feasibility and applicability, and can effectively realise simple, accurate, and efficient measurement of ship bollard force.
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Open AccessArticle
Economic Evaluation of Water Management Alternatives in the Upper Green River Basin of Wyoming
by
Spencer Blevins, Kristiana M. Hansen, Ginger B. Paige, Anne MacKinnon and Christopher Bastian
Water 2024, 16(12), 1685; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121685 - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
Water use efficiency measures are generally recommended to reduce water use. Yet, flood irrigation practices in high-elevation mountain valleys of the Colorado River Basin headwaters generate return flows, which support late-season streamflow and groundwater recharge. Return flows support the ecosystem and provide recreational
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Water use efficiency measures are generally recommended to reduce water use. Yet, flood irrigation practices in high-elevation mountain valleys of the Colorado River Basin headwaters generate return flows, which support late-season streamflow and groundwater recharge. Return flows support the ecosystem and provide recreational benefits. This study provides a framework for quantifying how land-use changes and associated return flow patterns affect the economic value of water across uses in a hydrologically connected, shallow alluvial aquifer system. This study first investigates how return flow patterns could change under three alternatives to flood irrigation: an increased use of center pivots, increased residential development, and conversion to pasture. The brown trout was used as an indicator species to track eco-hydrology, return flow, and capacity for recreational activities under each alternative. Estimates from the non-market valuation literature coupled with predicted changes in brown trout productivity approximate associated changes to recreational angler value. Recreational angler values are highest under the flood irrigation alternative. The inclusion of recreational angler values with agricultural values alters the magnitude of returns but not the rankings. These results highlight the potential heterogeneity of conclusions to be drawn regarding water use efficiency, depending on the economic value of water in different uses and the degree of hydrologic connectivity. This study also highlights data gaps and modeling needs for conducting similar future analyses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socio-Economics of Water Resources Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Efficient and Rapid Combined Electrocoagulation–Filtration of Arsenic in Drinking Water
by
Najeebullah Channa, Tanveer A. Gadhi, Rasool Bux Mahar, Imran Ali, Sana Sajjad, Francesca S. Freyria, Barbara Bonelli, Sonke Widderich and Franz-Bernd Frechen
Water 2024, 16(12), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121684 - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
Arsenic (As) contamination is a severe problem in drinking-water sources. This study designed and investigated a novel combined electrocoagulation–filtration (ECF) system to investigate As treatment and filtration in drinking water in collaboration with HANDS-Pakistan and Medico International, Germany. Two separate pilot-scale ECF systems
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Arsenic (As) contamination is a severe problem in drinking-water sources. This study designed and investigated a novel combined electrocoagulation–filtration (ECF) system to investigate As treatment and filtration in drinking water in collaboration with HANDS-Pakistan and Medico International, Germany. Two separate pilot-scale ECF systems were designed and developed with an electrocoagulation (EC) unit and a commercially available PAUL® filter configured with vertical flat-sheet ultra-low-pressure membranes of 0.04 µm pore size for the combined treatment and filtration of different As concentrations. Real drinking water at different As concentrations, i.e., 100, 200, and 300 μg/L were tested on one ECF system with EC electrodes of iron (Fe) and another system with aluminum (Al), at different treatment times (0, 5, 10, 20, 45, 60, 120, 180 min), at a fixed current density (12 mA/cm2) and water flow rate of 1 L/min. The initial results showed 99% As removal within 5 min with the combined ECF treatment for both electrodes of Fe and Al. In addition, the effect of ECF on different water-quality parameters and the ionic interference on ECF performance and As filtration were analyzed. The results showed the promising potential of combined ECF treatment and filtration for treating and purifying As.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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Open AccessArticle
Enhanced Electricity Generation in Solar-Driven Photo-Bioelectrochemical Cells Equipped with Co3(PO4)2/Mg(OH)2 Photoanode
by
Razieh Rafieenia, Mohamed Mahmoud, Mahmoud S. Abdel-Wahed, Tarek A. Gad-Allah, Anna Salvian, Daniel Farkas, Fatma El-Gohary and Claudio Avignone Rossa
Water 2024, 16(12), 1683; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121683 - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
We developed a solar-driven photo-bioelectrochemical cell (s-PBEC) employing a novel anode photocatalyst material (Co3(PO4)2/Mg(OH)2) intimately coupled with electrochemically active bacteria for synergic electricity generation from wastewater. An s-PBEC was inoculated with a natural microbial community
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We developed a solar-driven photo-bioelectrochemical cell (s-PBEC) employing a novel anode photocatalyst material (Co3(PO4)2/Mg(OH)2) intimately coupled with electrochemically active bacteria for synergic electricity generation from wastewater. An s-PBEC was inoculated with a natural microbial community and fed with synthetic wastewater to analyze the performance of the system for electricity generation. Linear sweep voltammetry indicated an increase in power output upon light illumination of the s-PBEC after 1 h, rising from 66.0 to 91.5 mW/m2. The current density in the illuminated s-PBEC exhibited a rapid increase, reaching 0.32 A/m2 within 1 h, which was significantly higher than the current density in dark conditions (0.15 A/m2). Shotgun metagenomic analysis revealed a significant shift in the microbial community composition with a more diverse anodic biofilm upon illumination compared to the microbial communities in dark conditions. Three unclassified genera correlated with the enhanced current generation in illuminated s-PBEC, including Neisseriales (16.31%), Betaproteobacteria (7.37%), and Alphaproteobacteria (5.77%). This study opens avenues for further exploration and optimization of the solar-driven photo-bioelectrochemical cells, paving the way for integrative approaches for sustainable energy generation and wastewater treatment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biotechnology in Water Purification)
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Open AccessArticle
New Strategy to Maximize Phosphorus Utilization of Sewage Sludge Incineration Ash for Struvite Crystallization
by
Nari Park, Miseon Kim, Jinhong Jung, Sanghoon Ji and Weonjae Kim
Water 2024, 16(12), 1682; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121682 - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
Struvite crystallization can recover nitrogen and phosphorus simultaneously from various kinds of wastewaters as a slow-release fertilizer. However, the enhancement of the removal efficiency of NH4-N is challenging because the molar concentration of NH4-N is higher than that of
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Struvite crystallization can recover nitrogen and phosphorus simultaneously from various kinds of wastewaters as a slow-release fertilizer. However, the enhancement of the removal efficiency of NH4-N is challenging because the molar concentration of NH4-N is higher than that of PO4-P in many types of sewage including digested sludge filtrate. In this study, phosphorus eluate was recovered from sewage sludge incineration ash (SSA) and applied to the struvite crystallization process to increase the removal efficiency of NH4-N for the digested sludge filtrate. Under acidic conditions, a maximum of 98.4% of phosphorus was eluted from SSA; in alkaline conditions, a maximum of 51.2% was eluted; and in sequential elution conditions with (NaOH+H2SO4), a maximum of 98.0% was eluted. Jar tests were performed by injecting three types of eluates (H2SO4 1 N_elulate, NaOH 1 N_elulate, and (NaOH+H2SO4)_eluate), and PO4-P was stably removed (>86%) under all tested conditions. When the NaOH 1 N_eluate was injected, the NH4-N removal efficiency was highest at 84.4%, followed by 78.4% with the (NaOH+H2SO4)_eluate, and 58.7% with the H2SO4 1 N_eluate at the molar ratio of Mg:P:N of 1.5:1.5:1. In addition, the sequential jar tests were conducted by injecting both the NaOH 1 N_eluate and (NaOH+H2SO4)_eluate. In the pH range of 8.5–9.5, the PO4-P and NH4-N removal efficiencies reached 92.3–94.5% and 97.9–99.1%, respectively. X-ray diffraction analyses confirmed that the majority of the crystal phases were struvite forms. Therefore, the combined application of both the NaOH 1 N_eluate and (NaOH+H2SO4)_eluate was adequate to enhance not only the phosphorus recovery but also the removal efficiencies of PO4-P and NH4-N. SSA recovering PO4-P could be utilized as a new phosphorus source in the struvite crystallization process.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wastewater Treatment: Resources Recovery, Energy Neutralization and Water Reuse, 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Water Use in Livestock Agri-Food Systems and Its Contribution to Local Water Scarcity: A Spatially Distributed Global Analysis
by
Dominik Wisser, Danielle S. Grogan, Lydia Lanzoni, Giuseppe Tempio, Giuseppina Cinardi, Alex Prusevich and Stanley Glidden
Water 2024, 16(12), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121681 - 13 Jun 2024
Abstract
There is a growing concern about limited water supply and water scarcity in many river basins across the world. The agricultural sector is the largest user of freshwater on the planet, with a growing amount of water extracted for livestock systems. Here, we
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There is a growing concern about limited water supply and water scarcity in many river basins across the world. The agricultural sector is the largest user of freshwater on the planet, with a growing amount of water extracted for livestock systems. Here, we use data from the GLEAM model to advance previous studies that estimated livestock water footprints by quantifying water use for feed production, animal drinking water, and animal service water. We additionally account for the role of trade in accounting for feed water allocations to different animals in different countries and make use of a hydrologic model to estimate feed irrigation water requirements for individual crops at a high spatial resolution. Lastly, we estimate the contribution of livestock water abstractions to water stress at a small river basin scale for the entire globe. We find that feed production water accounts for the majority (>90%) of global livestock water withdrawals, though there is regional variation. Similarly, we find large regional variation in the water consumption per head by livestock species. Despite consuming >200 km3 of water per year, we find that reducing water use in the livestock system alone will rarely reduce water stress in high-stress basins. This study highlights the need for quantifying locally relevant water use and water stress metrics for individual livestock systems.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Water Use in Livestock Production Systems and Supply Chains)
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Open AccessArticle
Gallium Isotope Effect of Ga-Si Complex Solutions in Water: Theoretical Study Based on Density Functional Theory
by
Jixi Zhang
Water 2024, 16(12), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121680 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
A Ga isotope is a new proxy for different geochemical processes such as a weathering process, solution process, etc. Si (Si(OH)4) is ubiquitous in natural water bodies. However, studies on the Ga isotope effect about a Ga3+ aqueous solution reacting
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A Ga isotope is a new proxy for different geochemical processes such as a weathering process, solution process, etc. Si (Si(OH)4) is ubiquitous in natural water bodies. However, studies on the Ga isotope effect about a Ga3+ aqueous solution reacting with Si (Si(OH)4) are lacking. In this study, the Ga isotope effect of this process will be studied using a theoretical calculation method based on first principles. The results show that the heavy Ga (71Ga) isotope enrichment ability of different Ga-Si complex solutions is different. The 1000lnβ (‰) sequence of different Ga-Si complex solutions is (OH)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 ≈ (OH)3(H2O)2GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 > (OH)2(H2O)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 > (H2O)5GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 > (OH)(H2O)4GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30. The results show that there are two different reaction mechanisms when a Ga3+ aqueous solution reacts with Si-bearing (Si(OH)4) water; that is, six-coordination Ga-Si complexes and four-coordination Ga-Si complexes are formed at low pH (acidic) and high pH (alkaline), respectively. Compared with a Ga-Si complex aqueous solution under acidic conditions, Ga-Si aqueous solutions under alkaline conditions preferentially enriched the heavy Ga isotope (71Ga). The Ga isotope fractionation factors (α) between Ga-Si complex solutions and Ga3+-bearing aqueous solutions are all negative, which indicates that light Ga (69Ga) isotopes preferentially enter the structure of Ga-Si complexes during the formation of Ga-Si complex solutions. At 50 °C, the Ga isotope fractionation factors (1000lnα) of five systems ((H2O)5GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(H2O)6]3+(aq), (OH)(H2O)4GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(H2O)6]3+(aq), (OH)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(OH)3](aq), (OH)3(H2O)2GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(OH)3](aq), and (OH)2(H2O)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(OH)3](aq)) involved in this study are −0.12, −0.22, −0.07, −0.09, and −0.16 (‰), respectively. Excitedly, Si can affect the enrichment ability of the heavy Ga isotope (71Ga) in Ga-bearing complex aqueous solutions. This means that when Si is present in aqueous solutions, the enrichment capacity of the heavy Ga isotope (71Ga) of aqueous solutions will be effectively reduced. Ga in sediments is mainly derived from soluble Ga in the form of adsorbed (Fe, Mn) oxides/hydroxides, and the Ga isotope composition in sediments is heavier than that in basalt. The formation process of Ga-Si complex aqueous solutions influences the Ga isotope fractionation effect and also contributes to the composition of Ga isotopes in sediments. These key Ga isotope fractionation parameters obtained in this study will provide theoretical support for better explaining the reaction mechanism of Ga3+ complexes and Si-bearing (Si(OH)4) water bodies in solution processes and Ga isotope geochemical cycles.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Isotope Geochemistry of Groundwater: Latest Advances and Prospects)
Open AccessArticle
Investigating Algal Sensor Utilization Methods for Three-Dimensional Algal Control Technology Evaluation
by
Yeon-Jeong Park, Hye-Suk Yi, Seok-Jea Youn, Seung-Jae Lee, Deok-Hyeon Jin, Hee-Suk Lee and Han-Soon Kim
Water 2024, 16(12), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121679 - 12 Jun 2024
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There are physical, chemical, and biological methods to control algae, and their efficiency requires evaluation. In the field, monitoring and evaluating the overall algal concentration is challenging due to factors such as the flow rate, inhomogeneous distribution of algae in the water body,
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There are physical, chemical, and biological methods to control algae, and their efficiency requires evaluation. In the field, monitoring and evaluating the overall algal concentration is challenging due to factors such as the flow rate, inhomogeneous distribution of algae in the water body, and limitations in the number of samples for microscopic analysis. In this study, we analyzed total and cyanobacterial chlorophyll a (Chl-a) using a FluoroProbe sensor and microscopic data collected from March to November 2019. The Pearson correlation coefficient of log(x + 1) values revealed a significant positive correlation between four harmful cyanobacteria and cyanobacterial Chl-a (r = 0.618, p < 0.01). Furthermore, we explored the potential of evaluating the efficiency of algal control using sensors by acquiring three-dimensional, spatially continuous data for an algal fence, a physical algae control technology installed at the Daecheong Dam in 2021. The results confirmed that sensors can effectively evaluate algal control technology. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using sensors to assess the efficiency of physical algal control.
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Open AccessArticle
Hydroxyl Radical-Based Advanced Oxidation Processes of Red Reactive Dyes by Ultrafine Bubbles Method
by
Dedeh Rosmaniar Sofia, Eko Sulistio Hanam, Sunardi Sunardi, Dadan Sumiarsa and I Made Joni
Water 2024, 16(12), 1678; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121678 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The breakdown of dyes, which are environmentally hazardous substances and notoriously difficult to degrade, presents the main treatment challenge for wastewater from textile industries. Most advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for dye degradation usually use costly decolorizing agents, whose residue from Wastewater Treatment Plants
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The breakdown of dyes, which are environmentally hazardous substances and notoriously difficult to degrade, presents the main treatment challenge for wastewater from textile industries. Most advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for dye degradation usually use costly decolorizing agents, whose residue from Wastewater Treatment Plants may be hazardous to the environment. The present study aimed to apply ultrafine bubbles (UFBs) for water AOPs to degrade textile dyes. Our most recent innovation, ultrafine bubbles, enables the production of reactive oxygen species recently introduced as oxidants in AOPs. First, the disc diffuser was optimized by introducing various flow rates of 1–5 L Per Minute (LPM) to generate UFBs with unique characteristics observed from Zeta Potential, pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Oxidation–Reduction Potential (ORP). The air UFBs using a disc diffuser with 3 LPM were selected to degrade the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution (1000 Pt-Co). The treatment was optimized on the coagulant dosage (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 ppm) and bubbling times (0–120 min). As a result, the UFBs were successful in degrading the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution, resulting in a 45% reduction in Pt-Co color scale with a bubbling time of only 120 min and minimal coagulant dosage (0.5 ppm) compared to the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution treatment commonly using a coagulant dosage of 1.5 ppm without UFBs. Based on FTIR, XRF, and PL analysis, we propose the AOP mechanism of hydroxyl radicals for the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution. It is emphasized that UFB water AOPs (UFBs–WAOPs) represent a promising alternative technology for treating textile wastewater without chemicals or decolorizing agents. Thus, the UFBs-WAOPs are economical and environmentally benign textile wastewater treatment methods.
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(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
Open AccessArticle
Hydraulic Travel Time Diagnosis Using Recovery Data from Short-Term Pumping Tests for Rapid Aquifer Characterization: A Numerical Study with Monte-Carlo Simulations
by
Junjie Qi, Rui Hu, Linwei Hu, Quan Liu, Xiaolan Hou and Yang Song
Water 2024, 16(12), 1677; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121677 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the realm of groundwater science, characterization of heterogeneous aquifers is pivotal for resolving diverse groundwater resource and engineering-related problems that require the detailed spatial distribution of hydraulic parameters. As research progresses, one hydraulic tomographical method, which is based on hydraulic travel time
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In the realm of groundwater science, characterization of heterogeneous aquifers is pivotal for resolving diverse groundwater resource and engineering-related problems that require the detailed spatial distribution of hydraulic parameters. As research progresses, one hydraulic tomographical method, which is based on hydraulic travel time inversion, emerges as a promising and rapid method due to its robust and efficient calculation. In the field, the acquisition of hydraulic excitation and head observation data required for inversion is less time-consuming. Data collection from a single hydraulic test (such as a pumping test) typically takes only a few minutes or even a few tens of seconds. However, the field application of this method faces challenges. Hydraulic travel time is typically generated in the early stages of hydrogeological tests (e.g., early drawdown of a pumping test), yet accurate data may not be readily available because of the noise signals from test equipment, which can contaminate travel time signals, leading to inaccurate inversion results. A potential solution lies in utilizing the smooth head observation during the recovery period after the pump is turned off, which yields more accurate travel times for inversion calculations. In this paper, the mathematical development suggests that the travel time of the recovery phase aligns with that of the pumping phase when pumping reaches a steady or quasi-steady state. Subsequently, by employing Monte-Carlo simulations, 1200 realizations of two-dimensional heterogeneous confined aquifer models were generated for simulating pumping tests with different pumping durations. The calculated head data were then utilized to compute the travel time derived from drawdown data (t) and recovery data (t′), respectively. Comparisons showed that t is equal to t′ when drawdown reaches a steady or quasi-steady state. Conversely, when the pump is turned off before reaching a quasi-steady state, t differs from t′. However, results also indicate the fact that a decent hydraulic travel time diagnosis can be obtained, especially for the cases when travel times are smaller than 15 s. Given the statistical results of Monte-Carlo simulations, as well as experience during pumping tests in the field with different scenarios, using the recovery data from 60 s of pumping duration, or extended pumping durations of 100 s or 200 s as a more conservative alternative, can replace the aquifer characterization based on drawdown data. The new inversion strategy not only has less data uncertainty and equivalent inversion accuracy, but also can greatly enhance the repeatability of field tests and reduce the environmental impact of long-term pumping tests.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental and Numerical Simulation of Groundwater Flow and Solute Transport)
Open AccessArticle
Knowledge Management Model for Urban Flood Emergency Response Based on Multimodal Knowledge Graphs
by
Mengkun Li, Chen Yuan, Kejin Li, Minzhong Gao, Yuan Zhang and Huiying Lv
Water 2024, 16(12), 1676; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121676 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Recently, frequent flood disasters in China have seriously threatened economic development and public safety. This paper addresses the need for a dynamic urban flood emergency knowledge management system in emergency management departments and the lack of systematic knowledge among emergency managers regarding urban
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Recently, frequent flood disasters in China have seriously threatened economic development and public safety. This paper addresses the need for a dynamic urban flood emergency knowledge management system in emergency management departments and the lack of systematic knowledge among emergency managers regarding urban flood control. A multimodal knowledge graph-based urban flood emergency knowledge management model was constructed to enhance the decision-making capabilities of emergency management departments, improve the efficiency of public emergency evacuation, and reduce losses from urban flood disasters by analyzing the shortcomings of the existing emergency management system. An intelligent and dynamic flood emergency knowledge management model was built. This paper integrates multimodal knowledge graph technology to establish a multimodal emergency knowledge management framework for urban flood control. It develops and simulates the proposed model’s application scenarios for urban flood emergency evacuation using the Flocking algorithm on the NetLogo platform. Through simulation experiments, the practicality and effectiveness of the model in real flood disaster situations were examined, particularly in simulating crowd evacuation behavior. The study found that the model significantly improves the accuracy of information and decision-making speed during emergency responses and supports emergency management departments in conducting targeted and personalized emergency decisions. This research provides a scientific basis for emergency management departments to optimize their emergency response strategies to flood disasters and serves as a reference and example for the application of multimodal knowledge graph technology in emergency management.
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(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
Open AccessArticle
Nutrient Recovery via Struvite Precipitation from Wastewater Treatment Plants: Influence of Operating Parameters, Coexisting Ions, and Seeding
by
Andreia F. Santos, Luísa S. Mendes, Paula Alvarenga, Licínio M. Gando-Ferreira and Margarida J. Quina
Water 2024, 16(12), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121675 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Phosphorus (P) is a critical element for life, and wastewater treatment systems can be strategic points for its recovery, thereby avoiding eutrophication pollution in nature. The aim of this research was to investigate P recovery via struvite, namely in terms of the influence
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Phosphorus (P) is a critical element for life, and wastewater treatment systems can be strategic points for its recovery, thereby avoiding eutrophication pollution in nature. The aim of this research was to investigate P recovery via struvite, namely in terms of the influence of operating parameters, coexisting interfering ions, and seeding. This paper focuses on synthetic solutions, although an assessment was performed on wastewater. The results of the assessment indicated that, in the synthetic solution, the minimum concentration for struvite precipitation is about 30 mg P/L, and that the Mg/P molar ratio of 1 promotes P removal efficiency with less contribution from other minerals. In order to assess the results in terms of real-world scenarios, the influence of coexisting ions (calcium and sodium) was investigated. Calcium was shown to have the greatest impact on the process, as 80% was removed for an initial concentration of 200 mg Ca/L. Indeed, these experiments generated an amorphous precipitate that did not contain struvite. The utilization of biomass ash (size < 63 µm) as seeding in crystallization increased the P removal efficiency compared to the sample without seed and helped to control the pH. The precipitation experiments with wastewater demonstrated good P removal efficiencies (over 90%) but indicated a reduction in the purity of the final product (struvite was a minor crystalline phase identified in XRD—15%wt).
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(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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Open AccessArticle
Decision Support Systems Based on a Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis to Promote a Whole-of-Resource Approach for Water Management, with a Case Study of Rural Bengaluru in India
by
Tavseef Mairaj Shah, Chidinma Onyekaozuoro Egwu, Mohammad Hammad and Ralf Otterpohl
Water 2024, 16(12), 1674; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121674 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The sustainable availability and resilient supply of safe drinking water remains a challenge that is far from fulfilled. As of 2024, around 2 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe drinking water. The regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are
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The sustainable availability and resilient supply of safe drinking water remains a challenge that is far from fulfilled. As of 2024, around 2 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe drinking water. The regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are the most vulnerable regions in this regard. This is despite the fact that these regions are home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies. However, economic growth and rapid urbanization may also be connected to the increasing water stress in the suburban and rural areas. We propose addressing the two main challenges in this regard, which are the selection of the suitable treatment and distribution systems for different contexts using a decision support system following a Whole-of-Resource Approach (WORA). This approach considers the different water sources and sinks as contributing to a positive or negative change in the single resource, irrespective of whether the resource, in this case water, is used for domestic, industrial, or agricultural purposes. In this regard, this paper presents an illustrative proof of concept for such a decision support tool based on a multiple-criteria decision analysis. The decision support tool is aimed at facilitating water management within a WORA by providing recommendations regarding rainwater harvesting and savings in agricultural water consumption, in addition to suggesting water treatment and distribution systems, enabling systemic water resource management adapted to local context-specific conditions and needs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eye4water—Strengthening the Water Management Practices (in EMT-R) through the Development of Innovative ICT Methodologies and Improvement of Research Infrastructures)
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring Integrated Ocean Management Policy in China: Evolution, Challenges, and Prospects
by
Hao Kong, Yuqi Zhang, Yi Zhang, Yao Xu, Gang Zhou and Su Wang
Water 2024, 16(12), 1673; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121673 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Integrated ocean management (IOM) aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and serves as a crucial strategy for promoting the enduring health of marine ecosystems and the sustainable utilization of marine resources. An analysis of the evolution of China’s integrated ocean
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Integrated ocean management (IOM) aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and serves as a crucial strategy for promoting the enduring health of marine ecosystems and the sustainable utilization of marine resources. An analysis of the evolution of China’s integrated ocean management policy (IOMP) is crucial for providing valuable guidance in achieving sustainable growth in marine management and the marine economy for both China and other coastal nations worldwide. This paper studies the evolution characteristics, challenges, and prospects of IOMP in China since 1978 using content analysis. The findings indicate that the evolution of IOMP can be categorized into four stages: the germination period (1978–1998), the construction period (1999–2009), the systematization period (2010–2017), and the strategization period (2018–present), based on the state of international marine management. The IOMP has transitioned over time from its initial emphasis on resource development during the germination period to a strategization period that prioritizes the full development of all parts of the system. However, the ultimate goal has consistently been to achieve harmonious coexistence between people and the sea. China’s IOMP has experienced a progressive development; nevertheless, it continues to encounter obstacles such as the pressing requirement to revise sea-related policies and the absence of policy alignment. The objective of this paper is to explore the evolution, challenges, and prospects of China’s IOMP to better improve the land–sea coordination policy, strengthen international judicial cooperation. and provide effective policy reference for other maritime countries.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Bearing Capacity and Economic Growth)
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