An Unplanted Drying Bed is a simple, permeable bed that, when loaded with sludge, collects percolated leachate and allows the sludge to dry by evaporation. Approximately 50% to 80% of the sludge volume drains off as liquid. The sludge however, is not stabilized or treated. The bottom of the drying bed is lined with perforated pipes that drain away the leachate. On top of the pipes are layers of sand and gravel that support the sludge and allow the liquid to infiltrate and collect in the pipe. The sludge should be loaded to approximately 200kg TS/m2 and it should not be applied in layers that are too thick (maximum 20cm), or the sludge will not dry effectively. The final moisture content after 10 to 15 days of drying should be approximately 60%. A splash plate should be used to prevent erosion of the sand layer and to allow the even distribution of the sludge. When the sludge is dried, it must be separated from the sand layer and disposed of. The effluent that is collected in the drainage pipes must also be treated properly. The top sand layer should be 25 to 30cm thick as some sand will be lost each time the sludge is manually removed.