Work

Simulating the Porosity Reduction in a Permeable Reactive Barrier–Aquifer System Using THMC Software

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A permeable reactive barrier (PRB) containing zero-valent iron (ZVI) is an in situ groundwater remediation technology that passively intercepts and treats contaminated groundwater plumes. Over time, secondary mineral precipitation within the PRB diminishes porosity and hydraulic conductivity, altering flow paths, residence times, and sometimes causing bypass of the reactive zone. This study utilizes the THMC software to simulate porosity reduction in a PRB, capturing the coupled effects of fluid flow and geochemical interactions. The simulation results indicate that porosity loss is most significant at the PRB entrance and stabilizes beyond 0.2 m. Porosity reduction is primarily caused by aragonite, siderite, and ferrous hydroxide precipitating in pore spaces. The model further elucidates the influence of groundwater chemistry, demonstrating that variations in bicarbonate concentrations significantly impact mineral precipitation processes, thereby leading to porosity reduction. Furthermore, the study highlights reaction kinetics, with anaerobic iron corrosion rates being critical in controlling porosity reduction via mineral precipitation. THMC software effectively simulates porosity reduction in PRBs, identifies key factors driving clogging, and informs design optimization for long-term remediation.

Source: Hydrology

DOI: 10.3390/hydrology12090232

Authors: Thi-Tuyet-Han Nguyen, Heejun Suk, Ching-Ping Liang, Jui-Sheng Chen

Institutions: National Central University, Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, Fooyin University

Language: English

Topic: Environmental remediation with nanomaterials

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,172