Modelling bioretention systems: does physical-based mean robust?

This study aims to test the robustness of a physical based bioretention cell model, given the inaccuracies inherent to our knowledge of the systems’ hydrodynamic. Field monitoring data on a pilot bioretention cell is compared to HYDRUS 1D modelling results for a range of possible soil properties and bottom condition scenarios. The uncertainties in the hydrodynamic properties of the filtration and transition medias as well as the bottom boundary conditions (BCs) are found to significantly affect modelling results for water content dynamics in the filtration media but have limited impact on the long-term water balance of the system.