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Variable-density flow and transport simulation of wellbore brine displacement
John M Shafer1, Daniel T Brantley, Michael G Waddell
1Earth Sciences and Resources Institute, University of South Carolina, 1233 Washington St., Suite 300, Columbia, SC 29208, USA. jshafer@esri.sc.edu
Ground Water
|July 1, 2009
Summary
This study introduces a novel wellbore fluid displacement test for characterizing aquifer hydrogeologic properties. The method accurately estimates hydraulic conductivity and porosity by analyzing brine tracer movement in a limestone aquifer.
Area of Science:
- Hydrogeology
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Borehole dilution tests are established methods for aquifer characterization.
- Traditional methods may not fully account for complex wellbore conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an improved wellbore fluid displacement test.
- To accurately determine hydrogeologic properties of a limestone aquifer.
Main Methods:
- A brine slug (NaCl and deionized H2O) was injected into a PVC well.
- Electrical conductivity (EC) sensors recorded brine concentration over 5 days.
- SEAWAT-2000 simulations incorporated well construction details and density-dependent flow.
Main Results:
- A close agreement was achieved between simulated and observed EC concentrations.
- Reliable estimates for hydraulic conductivity, effective porosity, and longitudinal dispersivity were obtained.
- The numerical simulation effectively accounted for wellbore peculiarities.
Conclusions:
- The developed wellbore fluid displacement test provides accurate aquifer property estimates.
- SEAWAT-2000 is a suitable tool for analyzing such tests, considering density effects.
- This method offers a valuable alternative for hydrogeologic investigations.
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