Optimization of groundwater resources management in polluted aquifers

Abstract

Τhis paper focuses on optimal management of aquifers with pollution problems. Genetic algorithms are used as the optimization tool, while advective pollutant transport is simulated by means of a moving point technique. The approach is illustrated by means of two application examples. In the first we seek the maximum total clean water pumping rate Qs from three production wells, situated in the same restricted area with two wells that inject polluted water. Results show that Qs depends heavily on the dimensions of the available area. In the second application example, the total flow rate of the production wells is fixed and the minimum treatment cost of pumped water is sought. Best solutions resulting from a number of runs are classified in 3 different patterns, which are comparatively evaluated. Some remarks on taking into account dispersive mass transport conclude the paper.