Groundwater Flow Analysis for Inclined Aquifers

Area of Science:

• Hydrogeology
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Subsurface groundwater systems often feature non-horizontal sedimentary deposits due to geological processes like bedding and folding.
• These deposits commonly overlie sloped impermeable layers, necessitating specialized models for accurate groundwater flow analysis.
• Existing models may lack the comprehensive applicability required for these complex geological scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present an analytical model for simulating groundwater flow on inclined impermeable layers.
• To provide a more accurate and applicable alternative to methods like the Paolowsky method.
• To generalize the model for systems with both infiltration and exfiltration.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of the analytical model based on Dupuit's assumptions.
• Application of the model to various scenarios with different slope angles and boundary conditions.
• Validation of the model through comparison with the numerical model Seep/w.

Main Results:

• The presented analytical model accurately simulates groundwater flow on inclined impermeable layers.
• The model demonstrates superior applicability and accuracy compared to the Paolowsky method.
• Good agreement was observed between the model's results and those from the Seep/w numerical model.

Conclusions:

• The developed analytical model is a valuable tool for understanding groundwater dynamics in sloped geological settings.
• The model's ability to handle infiltration and exfiltration enhances its practical utility.
• Further research and application of this model can improve groundwater resource management in complex terrains.