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Multiphase approach to the modeling of porous media contamination by organic compounds. I. Equation development

Journal Article · · Water Resour. Res.; (United States)
The infiltration and migration of a chemical contaminant in the subsurface is a complex process. A multiphase approach to the modeling of organic compound migration in the subsurface is presented. This comprehensive approach makes it possible to describe the simultaneous transport of a chemical contaminant in three physical forms: as a nonaqueous phase, as a soluble component of a water phase, and as a mobile fraction of a gas phase. Using volume-averaging theory, equations governing such migration were developed from basic conservation of mass principles for a two-component contaminating phase. Incorporated within these equations are the effects of matrix and fluid compressibility, gravity phase composition, interphase mass exchange, capillarity, diffusion, and dispersion. The resulting equations form a system of three nonlinear partial differential equations in five unknowns, two capillary pressures and three mass fractions. On the basis of the concept of local equilibrium between the phases, two constraints relating mass fractions were formulated to close this mathematical system. 34 references, 2 figures.
Research Organization:
Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-79EV10257
OSTI ID:
6432227
Journal Information:
Water Resour. Res.; (United States), Journal Name: Water Resour. Res.; (United States) Vol. 21:1; ISSN WRERA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English