Enhancing Remediation of LNAPL Recovery through a Response-Surface-Based Optimization Approach

Cost-efficient design for remediation of light nonaqueous phase liquids (LNAPL) from subsurface has become an essential task for site managers in North America. Although many related studies were conducted, there was still lack of efficient and computationally attractive method in such an area. In this study, a response-surface-based optimization approach was developed for enhancing remediation of LNAPL recovery. A two-dimensional numerical model was provided to simulate LNAPL transport during remediation. A dual response regression model was proposed for establishing a linkage between remediation actions and system responses. A nonlinear VFPR management model was then established for generating desired operating conditions. A petroleum-contaminated site in western Canada was used to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method. The results demonstrated that the DRS model could be used as an effective proxy for simulation models and the optimal solutions from management model led to better cost-effectiveness compared with those from nonoptimized ones. The proposed optimization method was computationally attractive and required simple mathematical manipulations. It was of great practical values for supporting site remediation actions.