Predicting Reaeration Rates in Texas Streams

Abstract

Krypton‐85 was used to measure reaeration coefficients in numerous streams and rivers in Texas with various hydraulic characteristics. Flow rates ranged from 0.027 to 16.0 cms, velocities from 0.009 to 0.87 m/s, and depths from 0.17 to 1.83 m. Using a linear multiple regression technique, the Texas Reaeration Equation was developed for estimating reaeration coefficients in Texas streams and rivers. Statistical and graphical tools were used to evaluate this equation for accuracy and reliability and to determine the limits of its application. The methods of analysis of variance and analysis of residuals were used to evaluate the accuracy of the Texas Reaeration Equation. The 95% confidence intervals of the regression coefficients were also determined. The Texas Reaeration Equation adequately predicted reaeration coefficients in Texas streams and can be reliably applied to streams with depths from 0.2 to 1.0 m and velocities from 0.01 to 0.30 m/s.