Critique of Floating‐Dome Technique for Estimating Reaeration Rates

Abstract

Analysis of the floating-dome reaeration measurement technique by comparing dome oxygen-exchange rates and actual free-exchange rates indicates that the technique results in erroneous values. Significant temperature changes in the dome, which are common and do not represent the atmosphere-water interfacial region, introduce calculation errors not compensated for in the methodology. Additionally, the dome protects the water surface and reduces the contribution of wind-induced turbulence, a significant factor in reaeration. Based on these facts, it appears the dome technique is not an accurate or useful method for reaeration measurements.