Aeration

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Aeration is the process of dissolving air in a liquid (usually water). Usually aeration is achieved by passing air through the liquid. A diffuser or air stone is often ultilised to produce small bubbles of air which increases the rate of aeration due to the higher contact surface area.

[edit] Uses of aeration

Production of aerated water for drinking purposes
Secondary treatment of sewage or industrial wastewater
To increase the oxygen content of water used to house animals, such as aquarium fish
To increase oxygen content of wort (unfermented beer) or must (unfermented wine) to allow yeast to propagate and begin fermentation
To dispel other dissolved gases such as carbon dioxide or chlorine
In chemistry, to oxidise a compound dissolved or suspended in water
To induce mixing of a body of otherwise still water

Aeration (of soil) refers to the extent of air gaps in soil. See Porosity#Porosity of soil. Aeration commonly refers to the process of using mechanized equipment to either puncture the soil with spikes (spike aeration) or remove approxametely 1"X2" cores of soil from the ground (core aeration). Spike aeration involves the use of an aeration machine with spikes up to a foot or more in length. Spike aeration is sometimes used to address drainage issues in areas with turf. Core aeration is done on turf areas as a means of reducing turf compaction, reducing thatch buildup, improving the infiltration of water/nutrients, and creating an environment where grass seed can have direct contact with the soil.

[edit] See also

( http://www.hkc22.com/aeration.html ) The Future of Aeration Technology, Systems, Markets and Developments to 2015 ( http://www.stamfordscientific.com/designyourplant.html) Automated Diffused Aeration System Drafting Software for Disc Diffusers and Tube Diffusers