Sustainable Water Purification Using Diatomite–Zeolite Modified Pervious Concrete for Environmental and Aquatic Ecosystem Protection

Abstract

Rapid urbanization has increased impervious surfaces, leading to reduced groundwater recharge, higher surface runoff, and deterioration of water quality. Pervious concrete has gained attention as a sustainable pavement material because of its capacity to facilitate water infiltration while minimizing environmental impacts. This study investigates the incorporation of diatomite and zeolite into pervious concrete to improve both structural performance and water purification efficiency. Diatomite, characterized by its porous structure and high adsorption potential, and zeolite, recognized for its ion-exchange and filtration properties, were incorporated as supplementary mineral materials within the pervious concrete matrix. The experimental investigation assessed the effects of varying proportions of diatomite and zeolite (0 to 10 %) on permeability, compressive strength, porosity, and water quality parameters like pH, cadmium, turbidity, lead, copper, zinc, iron. Treated water performance was evaluated through indicators including turbidity reduction and improvement in physicochemical characteristics. The results demonstrated that the modified pervious concrete system enhanced filtration performance while maintaining adequate permeability required for storm water infiltration. The integrated mechanisms of adsorption, ion exchange, and physical filtration contributed to improved contaminant removal and supported groundwater recharge. The study concludes that diatomite–zeolite incorporated pervious concrete represents an environmentally sustainable solution for urban water management by promoting natural purification processes, reducing runoff pollution, improving infiltration, and supporting ecosystem conservation and resilient infrastructure development.