Constructed Wetlands & Phytopurification

Imagine a natural filtration system that not only cleans water but also creates thriving ecosystems. ECA® – Expanded Clay Aggregate is meticulously designed for applications in constructed wetlands and phytopurification. Its unique attributes such as chemical stability, non‑reactivity, and high porosity enable it to serve as an exceptional substrate for wetland vegetation. This is vital for supporting plant growth, nutrient uptake, and overall ecosystem balance.

Using ECA® as a substrate transforms wetland vegetation management. Its controlled porous structure provides a vast specific surface area for the colonization of beneficial biofilms. These biofilms facilitate the adsorption and absorption of pollutants, effectively purifying water while enhancing plant health. The lightweight nature of ECA® not only simplifies handling but also reduces energy consumption during installation.

Floating wetlands are emerging as innovative solutions for natural water treatment in areas where land space is limited. ECA® – Expanded Clay Aggregate forms the backbone of these systems by providing a durable, buoyant, and stable base for plant roots. Its UV resistance and thermal insulation properties ensure that the structure withstands prolonged exposure to the elements while maintaining its performance. These floating systems are not only aesthetically appealing but also serve as natural filters that improve water quality and support biodiversity.

Chemical Properties

• Chemical Stability & Non‑reactivity: ECA® remains unaffected by aggressive chemical environments, ensuring longevity in wetland applications.
• Corrosion Resistance & Non‑flammability: These attributes guarantee durability, even in corrosive or high‑temperature conditions.
• Odorless & Non‑toxic: ECA® is safe for both the environment and human exposure, promoting healthy ecosystems without off‑gassing harmful odors.
• Low Water Absorption & UV Resistance: These features allow ECA® to maintain its integrity and performance under prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight, crucial for outdoor applications.
• Acid & Salt Resistance: Ensures that ECA® maintains its structure and efficacy even when exposed to acidic or saline conditions.

Mechanical Properties

• Lightweight Bulk Density: Ranging from 200 to 800 kg/m³, this property reduces handling and energy consumption.
• High Compressive & Tensile Strength: Ensures that ECA® withstands significant mechanical stresses without compromising its structural integrity.
• Controlled Porosity & High Specific Surface Area: Critical for adsorption and biofilm development, these attributes maximize pollutant removal efficiency.
• Thermal Insulation & Dimensional Stability: These properties support consistent performance across varying temperature and humidity levels.

Constructed wetlands are natural systems that mimic the filtration capacity of natural wetlands. ECA® – Expanded Clay Aggregate plays a critical role by providing a stable substrate that supports robust plant growth and microbial activity. Its chemical inertness ensures that the aggregate does not interfere with the natural processes, while its high porosity maximizes the contact between water and the aggregate surface, leading to enhanced adsorption of pollutants. This results in a more effective and sustainable water treatment system.

In urban and industrial settings where space is at a premium, floating wetlands offer a unique, space‑saving solution for water purification. ECA® is the key component in these systems due to its lightweight and durable properties. It forms the structural base upon which floating wetland platforms are built, ensuring that they remain buoyant and stable. Moreover, its UV resistance and thermal stability mean that these systems can operate efficiently even under harsh environmental conditions, providing continuous filtration and improving overall water quality.