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Updated: Nov 11, 2025

Electrochemically and Bioelectrochemically Induced Ammonium Recovery
Published on: January 22, 2015
Optimizing Multiwell Aquifer Storage and Recovery Systems for Energy Use and Recovery Efficiency
Saheli Majumdar1, Gretchen R Miller1, Zhuping Sheng2
1Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, 3136 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77845, USA.
Fewer wells in multiwell aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) systems can improve water recovery and energy efficiency. Optimizing operational factors is key for enhancing ASR system performance in water resource management.
Area of Science:
- Hydrogeology
- Water Resource Management
- Environmental Engineering
Background:
- Aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) is crucial for water resource management.
- Efficient operation of multiwell ASR systems is vital for maximizing performance.
- Understanding hydrogeological and operational impacts is necessary for optimizing ASR systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of hydrogeological and operational factors on multiwell ASR system performance.
- To compare the efficiency of simplified (dual-well) versus complex (multi-well) ASR systems.
- To provide guidelines for optimizing multiwell ASR system design and operation.
Main Methods:
- Developed MODFLOW and MT3DMS models for simulating a synthetic multiwell ASR system.
- Evaluated simplified (dual-well) and complex (three- to seven-well) ASR configurations.
- Calculated recovery and energy efficiencies based on model simulations.
Main Results:
- Higher hydraulic conductivity and longitudinal dispersivity reduced system efficiencies.
- Increased recharge volume improved recovery efficiency but decreased energy efficiency.
- Higher regional gradients and longer storage durations significantly reduced efficiencies.
- Fewer wells in multiwell systems yielded higher potable water volumes and better energy output.
Conclusions:
- Operational factors have a more pronounced effect on multiwell ASR systems than physical factors.
- Optimizing the number of wells and operational strategies is key to enhancing multiwell ASR performance.
- The study offers valuable insights for engineers designing and operating multiwell ASR systems.
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