Microorganisms and their metabolic activities affect seepage through porous media in groundwater artificial recharge systems: A review

Groundwater artificial recharge has been widely utilised throughout the world as an effective measure for solving groundwater overdraft. Many microorganisms are present in both recharging water and porous media, and their metabolic activities inevitably have complicated effects on the recharge process. Bioclogging is attributable to the growing population of bacteria and their extracellular polymer substances secreted on the medium. The formation mechanism of microbial clogging and the impact of microbial organisms on seepage were further reviewed. The major factors that influence microbial clogging in the process of recharge are also discussed based on a literature review. Considering these problems, the activities of microorganisms in different seepage conditions and the role of microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) in the recharging process are particularly addressed.

Automated summary

Groundwater artificial recharge is widely utilized to solve groundwater overdraft issues, with the activity of microorganisms having complex effects on the recharge process, including the formation of bioclogging and impact on seepage. This review discusses the major factors influencing microbial clogging in the recharge process, and addresses the activities of microorganisms in different seepage conditions as well as the role of microbial EPSs in the recharging process.