A Fuzzy Simulation‐Based Optimization Approach for Groundwater Remediation Design at Contaminated Aquifers

A fuzzy simulation‐based optimization approach (FSOA) is developed for identifying optimal design of a benzene‐contaminated groundwater remediation system under uncertainty. FSOA integrates remediation processes (i.e., biodegradation and pump‐and‐treat), fuzzy simulation, and fuzzy‐mean‐value‐based optimization technique into a general management framework. This approach offers the advantages of (1) considering an integrated remediation alternative, (2) handling simulation and optimization problems under uncertainty, and (3) providing a direct linkage between remediation strategies and remediation performance through proxy models. The results demonstrate that optimal remediation alternatives can be obtained to mitigate benzene concentration to satisfy environmental standards with a minimum system cost.