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I&I, SSOs, & The Olympics

In this episode of Coatings Decoded, host Jack Walker dives into the world of wastewater infrastructure with Vaugh O’Dea, Director of Epoxytec. They explore the pressing issues of inflow and infiltration (I&I) in sewer systems, drawing connections to recent challenges faced during the Paris Olympics with the Seine River’s water quality.

Vaughn sheds light on the differences between separate and combined sewer systems, the aging infrastructure in both North America and Europe, and the costly impact of I&I on wastewater treatment facilities.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how groundwater infiltration and stormwater can overburden treatment plants, leading to environmental and public health risks. The episode also discusses historical approaches to mitigating these issues, like equalization basins, and emphasizes the importance of proactive infrastructure repairs to address the root causes of I&I.

• Inflow and Infiltration: Understand the basics of I&I, how it occurs, and why it’s a critical concern for wastewater systems.
• Combined vs. Separate Sewer Systems: Explore the differences between these systems and the unique challenges they present, especially during heavy rain events.
• Infrastructure Impact: Discover the role of aging infrastructure in I&I and the importance of proactive maintenance and repair to prevent sanitary sewer overflows.
• Solutions in Action: Hear about practical solutions for mitigating I&I, with a focus on manhole rehabilitation as a key strategy.