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2040027 
Journal Article 
Contaminant Removal Processes in Subsurface-Flow Constructed Wetlands: A Review 
Garcia, J; Rousseau, DPL; Morato, J; Lesage, Els; Matamoros, V; Bayona, JM 
2010 
Yes 
Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology
ISSN: 1064-3389
EISSN: 1547-6537 
TAYLOR & FRANCIS INC 
PHILADELPHIA 
40 
7 
561-661 
WOS:000279633600001 
The main contaminant removal processes occurring in subsurface-flow constructed wetlands treating wastewater are reviewed. Redox conditions prevailing in the wetlands are analyzed and linked to contaminant removal mechanisms. The removal of organic matter and its accumulation in the granular medium of the wetlands are evaluated with regard to particulate and dissolved components and clogging processes. The main biological processes linked to organic matter transformationaerobic respiration, denitrification, acid fermentation, sulfate reduction, and methanogenesisare reviewed separately. The processes of removal of surfactants, pesticides and herbicides, emergent contaminants, nutrients, heavy metals and faecal organisms are analyzed. Advances in wetland modeling are presented as a powerful tool for understanding multiple interactions occurring in subsurface-flow constructed wetlands during the removal of contaminants. 
reed beds; granular medium; hydraulic loading rate; organic loading rate