filtratsioonibarjäär

Filtratsioonibarjäär is a term used in various scientific and engineering contexts, most commonly in civil engineering and hydrology, to describe a layer or structure that impedes or controls the flow of water or other fluids through a porous medium. This barrier is designed to alter the natural filtration process.

In civil engineering, a filtration barrier is often employed in earth dams, levees, and other hydraulic structures. Its primary function is to prevent the migration of fine soil particles from the core or foundation into coarser materials, a process known as internal erosion or piping. This migration can weaken the structure and lead to its failure. The barrier typically consists of specific gradations of soil or gravel that allow water to pass through while retaining the finer particles.

In hydrology and environmental science, filtration barriers can be natural or artificial. Natural barriers might include layers of clay or impermeable rock that limit groundwater flow and contaminant transport. Artificial barriers, such as geotextiles or compacted clay layers, are often installed to protect groundwater sources from pollution or to contain contaminated plumes. The effectiveness of a filtration barrier depends on its permeability, thickness, and the size of the pores within it, which must be carefully selected based on the characteristics of the fluid and the surrounding porous medium. The goal is to achieve a balance between preventing undesirable particle movement and allowing sufficient drainage to avoid excessive hydrostatic pressure buildup.