Avaliação do plano sistematizado e atributos físicos do solo do gramado da Arena Castelão em Fortaleza-CE

Abstract

This research was conducted on the turf of Arena Castelão in Fortaleza-CE, Brazil, with the overarching objective of performing a diagnostic analysis of the systematized plan concerning surface runoff (drainage), water transmission in the soil, and mechanical resistance to penetration. Specific aims included: (1) conducting a planialtimetric survey to map the topography of the area and evaluate the efficiency of the surface drainage system; (2) diagnosing soil water infiltration and transmission characteristics; (3) and assessing soil penetration resistance. For the topographic analysis, 79 altimetry points were collected using a total station, strategically distributed to ensure precision and representativeness. DataGeosis and Surfer software were employed for calculations and drafting, respectively. Field infiltration tests were performed using a double-ring infiltrometer at the same location where an infiltration test had been conducted during the stadium’s renovation in late 2012. Undisturbed soil samples were collected from four georeferenced points for laboratory testing of saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ko). Soil penetration resistance was measured using an impact penetrometer at the same sampling locations. Key findings include: (1) Minor adjustments to the systematized plan are required, particularly on the western side relative to the field’s central axis, to restore base soil or surface slopes to gradients of 0.5% toward the sidelines and 0.5% toward the goals, as established for the 2014 World Cup; (2) The soil water infiltration rate of 154.9 mm h⁻¹ is classified as "very high," preserving infiltration characteristics even 12 years post-renovation; (3) Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ko) values fall within the "high to very high" range, indicating favorable soil drainage capacity; and (4) Root growth limitations begin at a depth of 0.12 m, particularly near the goal areas. Most analyzed points ranged between "good" and "low quality" classifications per FIFA standards, emphasizing the need for targeted management practices to mitigate localized compaction.