Tracer test analysis using flow and transport simulation code and new analytical transport model 27 April 2019

Area of Science:

• Hydrogeology
• Environmental Engineering
• Geochemistry

Background:

• Tracer tests are crucial for understanding groundwater flow and solute transport.
• Aquifer heterogeneity significantly impacts contaminant migration and remediation strategies.
• Existing models may not fully capture complex transport dynamics in multilayered systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a two-phase convergent flow field tracer test using sodium chloride solution.
• To determine hydrogeological parameters for analyzing solute injection experiments.
• To develop and calibrate a new analytical model for 1D radial transport in multilayer settings.

Main Methods:

• Field tracer test conducted on a pumping well and piezometers in the Kovin-Dubovac drainage system.
• Numerical simulation using SEAWAT code via Visual Modflow™ 2011 interface.
• Development and application of a novel analytical model for 1D transport in a radial convergent flow field.

Main Results:

• The new analytical model showed excellent agreement with experimental data and numerical simulations.
• Tracer test results confirmed aquifer heterogeneity at the 10-meter scale, consistent with prior research.
• The model's performance validates its utility in characterizing transport conditions in complex hydrogeological settings.

Conclusions:

• The developed analytical model is a valuable tool for characterizing solute transport in radial convergent multilayer flow fields.
• The study reinforces the understanding of aquifer heterogeneity revealed by small-scale tracer tests.
• The model's accuracy suggests potential applications in groundwater management and contaminant transport prediction.