ABSTRACT
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are one of the most widely used ecological technologies due to their high contaminant removal efficiencies and reduced costs for maintenance and operation. (CWs), also known as treatment wetlands or wetland systems, are engineered systems designed and constructed to utilize natural processes to remove contaminants from water. An experimental pilot scale wetland was constructed to assess the feasibility of using this technology for the final treatment of effluents from a metal tool factory. The wetland was closed to avoid an effluent outflow. Cr concentration in water decreased after 30 days. The wetland was fenced with wire to stop animals from approaching, which allowed the recovery of the vegetation. A complete root-rhizome development for a constructed wetland may require 3–5 years. Constructed wetland performance improved with wetland maturity. The wetland was emptied, plant detritus containing high Cr concentrations was removed and new specimens of T. domingensis were planted in the inlet area.
