Groundwater remediation optimization using Solving Constraint Integer Program (SCIP)

• Published in: Groundwater for sustainable development 2018-09, Vol.7, p.176-184
• Main Authors: AC, Alexander, JM, Ndambuki, RW, Salim, AK, Manda
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Groundwater Pollution; Remediation system; SCIP algorithm; Simulation - Optimization
• ISSN: 2352-801X; 2352-801X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.gsd.2018.05.001

Simulation-optimization methods have increasingly been used to develop optimal solutions for a variety of groundwater remediation systems. The feasibility of these approaches is often dependent on their simplicity in application and software accessibility. Therefore, it is imperative to evaluate the applicability of a freely accessible and user friendly algorithm in the design of more robust groundwater remediation solutions. In this study, we present a coupled simulation-optimization model with solving constraint integer program (SCIP) algorithm in designing of groundwater remediation procedure of a polluted aquifer. The proposed method is illustrated by applying to a hypothetical groundwater problem. The primary objective of optimization in this work was to minimize the total pumping volume of water from a confined aquifer, subject to the state variable constraints such that the resulting decrease in hydraulic head and contaminant concentration in a set of control boreholes are within specified target levels. Borehole pumping rates were considered as decision variables of the optimization problem. The results of two cases demonstrate that the SCIP algorithm has the ability to design a groundwater remediation system of a polluted aquifer with a high degree of accuracy. Results of the SCIP were compared to firefly algorithm (FA) and indicated potential gains in efficiency to identify robust and reliable groundwater remediation system. [Display omitted] •The groundwater pollution problems are escalating while challenges remain on the effectiveness of management strategies.•The study demonstrated the applicability S-O in conjunction with SCIP in designing an effective PAT remediation system.•Obtained optimal pumping rates satisfied both concentration and water head constraints.•Its simplicity and swiftness to arrive to optimal solution suggest its capability in designing of effective groundwater remediation system.