Work

Coupled Use of Drone Imagery and Geophysical Methods for the Characterization of Horizontal Subsurface Flow Constructed Wetlands

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The growing need for sustainable wastewater treatment highlights the importance of low-energy solutions such as horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSSF CWs). While effective, these systems often face clogging issues that reduce performance and lifespan. This study investigates clogging dynamics in a Water Treatment Plant (Lleida, Spain) using a multidisciplinary approach. Non-invasive geophysical methods such as Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Induced Polarization (IP) were combined with high-resolution drone imagery to characterize surface and subsurface indicators of clogging. Drone data captured surface anomalies, while geophysical measurements revealed subsurface obstructions. The integrated analysis identifies clogged zones and shows a strong spatial correlation between surface features and geophysical anomalies. These results validate the use of drone imagery as a rapid, non-invasive diagnostic tool and demonstrate the effectiveness of combining remote sensing with geophysical techniques for wetland assessment. This approach supports improved monitoring, targeted maintenance, and optimized long-term performance of HSSF CWs.

Source: Geomatics

DOI: 10.3390/geomatics6030069

Authors: Aritz Urruela, Àlex Sendrós, Albert Casas, Mahjoub Himi, Luciano Galone, Lluís Rivero

Institutions: Universitat de Barcelona, University of Malta

Language: English

Topic: Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater Treatment

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207