T280 Applications and Advances in Groundwater Flow Modeling

Wednesday, 7 November 2018
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Room 132

OPTIMIZATION OF LNAPL RECOVERY FROM A SEMI-CONFINED AQUIFER: THE IMPORTANCE OF AN ACCURATE SITE CONCEPTUAL MODEL AND UNDERSTANDING LNAPL RECOVERABILITY TECHNIQUES

Paper number: T280-6
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 2:40 PM – 2:55 PM

Authors

Abstract

Optimization of Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (LNAPL) recovery from a semi-confined aquifer presents technical challenges due to specific stratigraphic, lithologic, and hydrogeologic factors as well as LNAPL pore-fluid saturations, LNAPL buoyancy, and recoverability of petroleum hydrocarbons. The development of an accurate Conceptual Site Model is critical to understanding the placement of recovery well locations, the effectiveness of short and long term LNAPL recoverability, and remedial system optimization. This paper presents a case study of site delineation and long term recovery of LNAPL trapped below a semi-confining unit within a Cretaceous fresh water delta in the Mid-Atlantic Area (USA). A systematic approach was developed to define stratigraphic and hydrogeologic relationships, conduct initial recoverability testing, evaluate LNAPL recoverability, and optimize LNAPL recovery by managing “recovery zone” thickness and avoiding “watering-out” a well due to over pumping.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 50, No. 6

doi: 10.1130/abs/2018AM-315018

© Copyright 2018 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted to the author(s) of this abstract to reproduce and distribute it freely, for noncommercial purposes. Permission is hereby granted to any individual scientist to download a single copy of this electronic file and reproduce up to 20 paper copies for noncommercial purposes advancing science and education, including classroom use, providing all reproductions include the complete content shown here, including the author information. All other forms of reproduction and/or transmittal are prohibited without written permission from GSA Copyright Permissions.