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A dual-porosity model for simulating solute transport in oil shale

Water-Resources Investigations Report 86-4047
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https://doi.org/10.3133/wri864047

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Abstract

A model is described for simulating three-dimensional groundwater flow and solute transport in oil shale and associated geohydrologic units. The model treats oil shale as a dual-porosity medium by simulating flow and transport within fractures using the finite-element method. Diffusion of solute between fractures and the essentially static water of the shale matrix is simulated by including an analytical solution that acts as a source-sink term to the differential equation of solute transport. While knowledge of fracture orientation and spacing is needed to effectively use the model, it is not necessary to map the locations of individual fractures. The computer program listed in the report incorporates many of the features of previous dual-porosity models while retaining a practical approach to solving field problems. As a result the theory of solute transport is not extended in any appreciable way. The emphasis is on bringing together various aspects of solute transport theory in a manner that is particularly suited to the unusual groundwater flow and solute transport characteristics of oil shale systems. (Author 's abstract)

Suggested Citation

Glover, K.C., 1987, A dual-porosity model for simulating solute transport in oil shale: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 86-4047, iv, 88 p. :ill., map ;28 cm., https://doi.org/10.3133/wri864047.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title A dual-porosity model for simulating solute transport in oil shale
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 86-4047
DOI 10.3133/wri864047
Year Published 1987
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey,
Description iv, 88 p. :ill., map ;28 cm.
Additional publication details