Subsurface seepage systems design is primarily based on?

The design of subsurface seepage systems is fundamentally based on the absorption capacity of the soil. This aspect is critical because the effectiveness of a seepage system hinges on the soil's ability to absorb and filter wastewater. Each type of soil has different physical characteristics that influence how well it can absorb liquid, such as soil texture, structure, and moisture content.

For instance, sandy soils typically have higher absorption rates due to larger particle size and greater void space, allowing water to permeate quickly. Conversely, clayey soils have lower absorption rates, which can lead to runoff or saturation if the flow exceeds the soil's capacity. Thus, understanding the absorption capacity helps in determining the appropriate size and design for the seepage system to ensure adequate wastewater treatment and minimize environmental impact.

Other factors like the depth of the water table, while important, primarily influence the overall design and feasibility of the system rather than serve as the main design criterion. The size of the household and seasonal rainfall levels can affect the volume of wastewater produced and the potential for system overload, but these factors do not directly dictate the design specifics of the seepage system itself.