Source Zone Characterization Tool for Contaminated Groundwater Aquifers

Abstract

Abstract-Knowledge of contaminants source zones characteristics is an important initial step in the development of conceptual site model which is necessary to make informed decisions about trigger levels for restoration. The recently developed dipole flow and reactive tracer test (DFRTT) is used to justify usefulness of monitored natural attenuation of contaminated aquifers. It uses the dipole flow test which circulates groundwater between isolated injection and extraction chambers within a single borehole to delineate heterogeneous hydraulic properties. The aim of this paper is to extend this approach by modifying the developed DFRTT into a multiple flow and reactive tracer test (MFRTT) to facilitate contaminant source zone characterization. These modifications maximize the usefulness of the DFRTT to attain detailed description of the physical, chemical and biological properties of contaminants source zones. Mathematical and numerical models that examine the theoretical feasibility of the MFRTT are the main objectives of this paper.