Performance of Permeable Pavement Systems for Stormwater Infiltration and Pollutant Removal in Urban Areas

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and the expansion of impervious surfaces have significantly increased stormwater runoff, urban flooding, and pollutant transport in metropolitan environments. This study evaluates the performance of permeable pavement systems for stormwater infiltration and pollutant removal in urban areas under varying environmental and hydraulic conditions. The proposed investigation focuses on the hydraulic efficiency, infiltration capacity, and contaminant mitigation potential of permeable pavement structures designed to support sustainable urban drainage and water management practices. Experimental and analytical assessments were conducted to analyze runoff reduction, infiltration rate, water retention behavior, and pollutant removal efficiency for common urban contaminants such as suspended solids, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and nutrients. The study examined the influence of pavement material composition, pore structure, rainfall intensity, traffic loading, and maintenance conditions on system performance and long-term operational reliability. Results demonstrated that permeable pavement systems significantly reduced surface runoff volume and peak discharge while enhancing groundwater recharge through improved infiltration mechanisms. The systems also exhibited substantial pollutant removal efficiency due to filtration, sedimentation, adsorption, and biological treatment processes occurring within the pavement layers. Comparative analysis indicated improved stormwater management performance compared to conventional impervious pavement systems, particularly in densely urbanized areas prone to flooding and water quality degradation. Furthermore, the integration of permeable pavements contributed to sustainable urban infrastructure development by reducing drainage network stress and supporting environmentally responsible stormwater control strategies.