Advanced Vadose Zone Simulations Using TOUGH

The vadose zone can be characterized as a complex subsurface system in which intricate physical and biogeochemical processes occur in response to a variety of natural forcings and human activities. This makes it difficult to describe, understand, and predict the behavior of this specific subsurface system. The TOUGH nonisothermal multiphase flow simulators are well-suited to perform advanced vadose zone studies. The conceptual models underlying the TOUGH simulators are capable of representing features specific to the vadose zone, and of addressing a variety of coupled phenomena. Moreover, the simulators are integrated into software tools that enable advanced data analysis, optimization, and system-level modeling. We discuss fundamental and computational challenges in simulating vadose zone processes, review recent advances in modeling such systems, and demonstrate some capabilities of the TOUGH suite of codes using illustrative examples

Modeling of thermally driven hydrological processes in partially saturated fractured rock

This paper is a review of the research that led to an in-depth understanding of flow and transport processes under strong heat stimulation in fractured, porous rock. It first describes the anticipated multiple processes that come into play in a partially saturated, fractured porous volcanic tuff geological formation, when it is subject to a heat source such as that originating from the decay of radionuclides. The rationale is then given for numerical modeling being a key element in the study of multiple processes that are coupled. The paper outlines how the conceptualization and the numerical modeling of the problem evolved, progressing from the simplified to the more realistic. Examples of numerical models are presented so as to illustrate the advancement and maturation of the research over the last two decades. The most recent model applied to in situ field thermal tests is characterized by (1) incorporation of a full set of thermal-hydrological processes into a numerical simulator, (2) realistic representation of the field test geometry, in three dimensions, and (3) use of site-specific characterization data for model inputs. Model predictions were carried out prior to initiation of data collection, and the model results were compared to diverse sets of measurements. The approach of close integration between modeling and field measurements has yielded a better understanding of how coupled thermal hydrological processes produce redistribution of moisture within the rock, which affects local permeability values and subsequently the flow of liquid and gases. The fluid flow in turn will change the temperature field. We end with a note on future research opportunities, specifically those incorporating chemical, mechanical, and microbiological factors into the study of thermal and hydrological processes