FLUID FLOW IN DISRUPTED POROUS MEDIA: VOLCANOLOGICAL AND RADIOLOGICAL WASTE APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This dissertation is focused on numerical simulations of transient hydrogeologic settings in which a previously stable system is subjected to a sudden perturbation. Disruptions of hydrogeologic systems force an adjustment in fluid (groundwater, air, and water vapor) flow that yields a new, distinct state from the prior steady system. Three major types of disruption are considered in specific scenarios for this work: (1) Fracturing of a porous medium, resulting in a free exit and rapid drainage of water; (2) Changes in the structure of the porous medium, resulting in large differences in groundwater flow and, of particular interest, challenges in numerical modeling of such systems; and (3) Addition of a strong heat source in systems, resulting in thermal-hydraulic-chemical-mechanical changes and a consequent alteration of the porous medium.