Application of groundwater flow and solute transport models for groundwater remedial design

Conventional approaches to remediation typically comprise source control and pump-and-treat, and are designed for aquifer restoration and plume containment. In this context, mathematical models are useful tools for setting goals and for optimizing design/performance of conventional groundwater remedies. Based on available data, three-dimensional groundwater flow and solute transport models can account for complex hydrogeologic conditions. The reliability of predictions from these models is dependent on level of hydrogeologic detail incorporated into the conceptual model, confidence in available site-specific data, and availability of system performance data. During implementation of remedial action, sensitivity analyses or formal models (e.g., linear optimization) can be used for system optimization. Case studies for two sites with fairly complex conditions are presented to illustrate these modeling capabilities and their use in goal setting, remedial design, and post-design optimization.