Modeling solute reactivity in a phreatic solution conduit penetrating a karst aquifer

• Published in: Journal of contaminant hydrology 2018-10, Vol.217, p.52-70
• Main Authors: Field, Malcolm S., Schiesser, William E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Deposition; Groundwater; Karst aquifer; Models, Theoretical; Phreatic solution conduit; Reactivity; Solutions; Transport; Water Movements
• ISSN: 0169-7722; 1873-6009
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2018.09.002

A two-dimensional model for solute migration, transformation, and deposition in a phreatic solution conduit penetrating a karst aquifer is presented in which the solute is anthropogenic to the natural system. Transformation of a reacting solute in a solution conduit has generally been accepted as likely occurring but actual physical measurements and mathematical analyses of the suspected process have been generally minimally investigated, primarily because of the logistical difficulties and complexities associated with solute transport through solution conduits. The model demonstrates how a reacting solute might decay or be transformed to a product solute some of which then migrates via radial dispersion to the conduit wall where it may become adsorbed. Model effects vary for laminar flow and turbulent flow in the axial direction. Dispersion in the radial direction also exhibits marked differences for both laminar flow and turbulent flow. Reaction zones may enhance subsequent reactions due to some overlap resulting from the longitudinal dispersion caused by flow in the axial direction. Simulations showed that varying the reaction rate coefficient strongly affects solute reactions, but that varying deposition coefficients had only minimal impacts. The model was applied to a well-known tracer test that used the tracer dye, Rhodamine WT, which readily converts to deaminoalkylated Rhodamine WT after release, to illustrate how the model may be used to suggest one possible cause, in addition to other possible causes, for less than 100 tracer-mass recovery. In terms of pollutants in a karst aquifer the model also suggests one possible mechanism for pollutant transformation in a solution conduit. [Display omitted] •We develop a model for solute migration, transformation, and deposition in a phreatic solution conduit•The model is applied to a real-world tracer test with good results•The model provides valuable insight regarding solute reactant in karst aquifers•Application of the model to karst aquifers advances our understanding of karst aquifer functioning