Numerical modeling of a recirculating groundwater nitrate remediation well system /

Nitrate is one of the most commonly identified ground water

Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Shi, Nanmin, 1960-
Format: Thesis Book
Language:English
Published: [Place of publication not identified] : [publisher not identified] ; 1995.
Subjects:
Online Access:Link to OAKTrust copy
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Description
Summary:Nitrate is one of the most commonly identified ground water
contaminants. A new treatment system, called the
"Recirculating Groundwater Remediation Well (RGRW) System",
is proposed to reduce nitrate pollution. With this system,
contaminated groundwater is brought into the lower screen
section of a well , treated in the well casing, and returned
clean to the aquifer at the upper screen section of the well.
In order to determine the hydraulic and biological
denitrification characteristics of the RGRW system, two
computer models were developed to help design and operate the
RGRW System. The first model employed a semi-analytical
technique for predicting three-dimensional flow patterns and
capture zones of the RGRW in the unconfined aquifer. This
model can assist in the determination of the optimum number
of RGRWS, their rates of discharge and locations. The second
model was developed for simulating the nitrate transport and
denitrification in the RGRW system. The model considered the
interaction of nitrate, organic carbon and bacteria. The
governing equations couple the nitrate transport equation,
the carbon transport equation, the microbial growth and decay
equation, as well as the denitrification equation in both of
the treatment well (reactor) and aquifer. The nonlinear
coupled equations were solved by using an Eulefian-Lagrangian
method which is highly resistant to numerical dispersion in
the presence of small dispersivities. The model was
calibrated and verified against analytical solutions and
laboratory experimental data. Sensitivity analyses were
performed on both models. Discussion of the effects of the
variations in key parameters on the modeling results provides
insights into the RGRW system behaviors. It is concluded
that these models are useful tool to help design and operate
the RGRW systems.
Item Description:Vita.
"Major Subject: Civil Engineering".
Physical Description:xii, 125 leaves : illustrations ; 28 cm.
Issued also on microfiche from University Microfilms Inc.
Bibliography:Includes bibliographical references.