A 3-D finite-element model for simulation of the moving fresh-/salt-water interface
Sbai, M.A.; De Smedt, F. (1999). A 3-D finite-element model for simulation of the moving fresh-/salt-water interface. Natuurwet. Tijdschr. 79(1-4): 91-97 In: Natuurwetenschappelijk Tijdschrift. L. Walschot/Natuur- en Geneeskundige Vennootschap: Gent. ISSN 0770-1748, more Also appears in:De Breuck, W.; Walschot, L. (Ed.) (1999). Proceedings of the 15th Salt-Water Intrusion Meeting Ghent (Belgium), 25-29 May 1998. Natuurwetenschappelijk Tijdschrift, 79(1-4). Natuurwetenschappelijk Tijdschrift: Gent. 307 pp., more |  |
| Keywords | Fronts > Oceanic fronts > Estuarine front
Models
Marine/Coastal; Fresh water |
| Authors | | Top | - Sbai, M.A.
- De Smedt, F., more
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| Abstract | Three-dimensional groundwater flow models are becoming increasingly popular in the groundwater modelling community, as related numerical methods and computational efficiency have evolved considerably. However, there is still a noticeable scarcity of fully 3-D models, which accommodate to the sharp salt-/fresh-water interface problem, primarily due to the strong non-linearity of the governing equations and associated boundary conditions. A new finite element based model 'GEO-SWIM' is therefore developed with the main objectives to improve computational efficiency, robustness, and portability. The presented model has several features: as (1) from pure numerical point of view the embedded approach was developed in such way to avoid the two phase flow equations coupling, and (2) the FEM equations are handled efficiently using standard conjugate gradient method, preconditioned with an M-matrix based point incomplete factorization. A wide range of analytical, experimental, and field applications are used to validate the model, for many aquifer types, and under various hydrological conditions. |
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