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

A convergent flow field tracer test, in two phases, with injection of sodium chloride solution, was conducted on a pumping well and neighboring piezometers belonging to the Kovin-Dubovac area drainage system, on the Serbian sector of the Danube River. The initial goal was to determine the values of hydrogeological parameters in order to analyze the results of the subsequent experiments involving injection of the selected solutes. SEAWAT code (through the Visual Modflow™ 2011 interface), as well as the newly developed analytical model for multilayer setting (1D transport solution for tracer injected as a Dirac impulse in a radial convergent flow field), was used to develop and calibrate a model of the studied portion of the aquifer. The new analytical model demonstrated a very good match to the measured values and to the results of numerical simulation, which indicates that it can be of great utility in characterizing transport conditions. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Results confirm the conclusions of research papers on tracer tests that 10-m scale tests regularly point to heterogeneous aquifer. New analytical 1D radial transport model for multilayer setting demonstrated a very good match with numerical simulation and experimental data. Developed analytical model is usable for characterizing transport conditions in a radial convergent multilayer flow field or other settings.