ABSTRACT
There is currently an extensive body of knowledge on the causes of biochemical clogging with much emphasis being placed on biofilm development within leachate collection systems within landfills. This paper gives a synopsis of the current state of knowledge of the causes of clogging phenomena, which includes biological, chemical and physical clogging, and the implications thereof for drainage systems. Recommendations are made with respect to remediating the clogging phenomena. It is suggested that the incidence of biochemical clogging can largely be controlled by the incorporation of drainage design criteria. However, the incorporation of specific criteria into the design of drainage systems is currently limited by a lack of knowledge of the incidence of clogging within the South African situation. Recommendations for future research to determine these specific criteria are thus also made.
