Scanning Infiltration: re-evaluate hydrological dynamics in nature-based stormwater solutions through a non-invasive approach (2026–2029)

Urban flooding and stormwater pollution are growing challenges, driven by climate change and urbanisation. Nature-based solutions (NBS), such as bioretention and swales, play a key role in mitigating these impacts. Yet, the internal hydrological processes that govern their performance, including infiltration variability, preferential flow, and post-rainfall recovery, remain poorly understood.

Conventional monitoring approaches rely on point-scale soil moisture sensors, providing only localised insights and reinforcing a “black-box” understanding of these systems. To move toward a more process-based perspective, new tools and methods are needed.

This project pioneers the application of time-lapse direct current resistivity tomography (DC-ERT), a non-invasive geophysical method enabling high-resolution, temporally continuous monitoring of infiltration and water-soil-plant interactions. By integrating laboratory calibration, controlled infiltration tests, and long-term field monitoring, the project will provide critical insights into how NBS respond to rainfall extremes, seasonal shifts, and long-term system evolution. The findings will advance process-based hydrological and water-quality modelling and provide municipalities, consultants, and policymakers with practical tools for optimising the design, performance, and maintenance of nature-based stormwater systems.

The project is financed by Formas through its Career Grant for Early-career Researchers, running from 2026 to 2029 with a total budget of SEK 6 million. The project will be carried out in collaboration with the Division of Engineering Geology, Lund university, which will also act as hosting organisation.