Effect of aquifer heterogeneity on non-pumped, reactive well networks for removing pollutants in groundwater

Bull Environ Contam Toxicol. 2012 Jun;88(6):997-1000. doi: 10.1007/s00128-012-0605-z. Epub 2012 Mar 24.

Abstract

This purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of heterogeneity in aquifer hydraulic conductivity on configurations of non-pumped wells filled with reactive media for removing contaminant plumes in groundwater. Among one homogeneous and three heterogeneous simulated aquifers, 2-16 wells were necessary to contain a plume, with no clear relationship between degree of heterogeneity and number of wells. Generally, heterogeneous aquifers with initial plumes having broad rather than narrow downgradient margins required more wells and showed greater tendency for plumes to move around wells. Cleanup time increased up to 181 % with degree of heterogeneity in hydraulic conductivity.

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Restoration and Remediation / instrumentation
  • Environmental Restoration and Remediation / methods*
  • Groundwater / chemistry*
  • Models, Chemical
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / analysis*
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / chemistry
  • Water Purification / instrumentation
  • Water Purification / methods

Substances

  • Water Pollutants, Chemical