High resolution aquifer characterization based on direct-push technology: An integrated approach coupling hydraulic and seismic tomography

• Applicant: Dr. Ralf Brauchler
• Subject Area: Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Limnology, Urban Water Management, Water Chemistry, Integrated Water Resources Management
• Term: from 2005 to 2012
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 17751460

Knowledge about the spatial variations in hydraulic properties plays an important role controlling solute movement in saturated flow systems. Traditional hydrogeological approaches appear to have difficulties providing high resolution parameter estimates. Thus, this project aims at the development of an integrated approach coupling hydraulic and seismic tomography. The integrated approach will allow us to determine directly the three-dimensional distribution of hydraulic conductivity, specific storage, and diffusivity at a scale and accuracy needed for the prediction of contaminant transport and the design of effective remediation systems. Our approach will exploit the ease of access to shallow unconsolidated formations provided by direct-push technology to install a dense well network at low cost in terms of time, effort, and money. A flow and transport model will be developed based on the threedimensional parameter distributions allowing to assess which areas of the model domains have the most impact on the transport simulations. These areas will be validated by means of direct-push slug tests.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants