Rootzone Australia's system is a patented variation of a system commonly known in Australia as reed bed treatment systems. Relatively unknown in Australia but in operation in large numbers in Europe for over twenty years they have the advantage of almost zero energy useage and extremely low maintenance costs. The principles are simple and readily understood (see here) the practice a little more complex.

Sydney Australia

In the original designs (1980's version) the media used was exclusively soil based but problems with hydraulic capacity coupled with output standards that were not particularly difficult to meet lead to a movement to gravel media which is hydraulically much easier to handle. However the performance of soil based systems, particularly in respect of nutrient removal is far superior and with suitable amendments the hydraulic problems have been overcome.

Rootzone Australia's system is based on an improved process flow incorporating two stages plus an option for a third stage which can be used to further improve performance if required in particularly sensitive areas. It also utilises a novel media, which largely replaces, but not eliminates the soil media. The new media, which is an integral part of the provisional patent, possesses superior qualities both hydraulically and functionally in the process.

The end result is a substantial improvement in the quality of the output while at the same time reducing the area requirement and cost. Rootzone Australia's standard design for a domestic unit has an active area of 16sqm, a total footprint of 20sqm and can handle effluent for up to 8 persons. Typical output quality is BOD<10 N<15 P<3 suspended solids are <10 and turbidity typically 2-3NTU. The effluent is almost all of the time fully nitrified and capable of disinfection by U/V.

Gladstone Queensland

Lower levels could be met by more complex design but are not considered necessary for the vast majority of sites.