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Melnik, et al.

streams, where natural soil purification processes of oxidized, initially forming nitrogen salts, and eventually
contaminated water continue (Figure 1). nitrates (nitrification).
Most often, filter trenches are integrated with For each site, a treatment scheme was selected
elements of AGRS. Their main purpose in this context is according to the construction conditions, terrain, and
to divert purified water into aquifers through infiltration. wastewater flow.
A key function of the AGRS system is its barrier role Settling tanks remain on the surface of the earth,
– during short-term inflows of contaminated water, and the area above the filter trenches can be used for
the AGRS system can prevent groundwater pollution. landscaping (Figure 2).
Water exiting the AGRS is typically of high quality, Experimental studies of filtration and wastewater
with almost complete retention of suspended solids and treatment processes were conducted under laboratory
microorganisms, complete decomposition of pathogenic conditions using filtering phytoremediation facilities
microorganisms, and overall improvement of other with specialized filtering nozzles.
properties of water. Groundwater treated by AGRS As filtering materials, automobile tires with a
systems usually meets hygienic standards for drinking directional tread pattern were used. The tire size used
water. In the AGRS system, the water temperature was 205/55 R16, where the profile width is 205 mm,
also stabilizes, aligning with natural groundwater the profile height is 55% of the width, and the inner
temperatures. diameter is 16 inches. The outer diameter for this size
The biochemical oxidation of pre-treated wastewater is approximately 630 mm, and the tire carcass is made
in the biofilter occurs in two phases as it seeps through of steel cord or polyester threads, ensuring strength
the filter media: first, carbon and hydrogen are oxidized and shape stability under high loads. The rubber
to produce carbon dioxide and water; then nitrogen is compound consists of synthetic rubber with silica

additives, allowing effective performance within a
temperature range of −20°C – 40°C, as commonly used
in summer or all-season tires. The tread depth initially
measures 7 – 9 mm, with a minimum allowable depth
of 1.6 mm.
The average lifespan of the tires used is 4 – 6 years
or 40,000 – 60,000 km of mileage. Factors affecting
tire quality include driving style, road conditions, and
temperature variations.
Laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate the
toxicity of tires in water-saturated soil. The data gathered
Figure 1. Filter trench in the zone of interception of indicate that tire samples containing rubber materials
polluted surface runoff and metallic cords were not toxic to microorganisms.

A B C D

Figure 2. Sewage treatment plants for individual houses using non-traditional materials operating in Ukraine
(Tatarbunary Town Museum). (A-D) Stages of filter trench construction: (A) Arrangement of a septic tank;
(B) Construction of a filter trench using available space; (C) Laying waste tires and geotextiles to prevent
clogging; (D) Development of a recreational area on top of the filter trench.

Volume 22 Issue 2 (2025) 206 doi: 10.36922/AJWEP025080051