A pioneering technology has been developed by a team of researchers from Guangdong province and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, with the aim of tackling the issue of toxic gas emissions in urban drainage systems. The team, led by Professor Jiang Feng from the School of Environmental Science and Engineering at Sun Yat-sen University, has made significant progress in predicting and managing the risks associated with toxic gas generation.
China’s rapid urbanization and expansion of drainage systems have resulted in a significant increase in the production of hydrogen sulfide within drainage pipes. Jiang Feng has emphasized the harmful effects of these toxic gases, including pipe corrosion, poisoning incidents, and risks to maintenance personnel.
In response to these challenges, the collaborative efforts of Sun Yat-sen University, the Drainage Services Department of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and the South China Normal University have led to the development of an intelligent technology to mitigate the impact of toxic gases within drainage systems.
The research team has successfully established a mathematical model to accurately predict the generation and emission of hydrogen sulfide. Additionally, they have implemented an online early warning system to facilitate risk control and management. This innovative technology has been widely adopted in Guangdong and Hong Kong, resulting in a notable reduction in poisoning incidents and an extension of the lifespan of drainage pipes.
Furthermore, the application of this technology has led to significant improvements in the sewerage system of the Harbor Area Treatment Scheme, which holds the distinction of being the world’s deepest of its kind. Professor Jiang Feng also highlighted that the research team has garnered prestigious accolades, including the 2023 China Award for Science and Technology in Construction, in recognition of their groundbreaking technological achievements.
The development of this cutting-edge technology marks a significant advancement in the field of environmental science and engineering, with far-reaching implications for the sustainable management of urban drainage systems. By effectively addressing the challenges posed by toxic gas emissions, the research team’s innovative approach has the potential to enhance the safety and longevity of drainage infrastructure in urban environments.
For further inquiries, the lead researcher can be contacted at [email protected].