Three-dimensional numerical simulation of soil vapor extraction

Soil vapor extraction (SVE) is a proven technology for the removal of volatile NAPLs from soil and groundwater. However, most designs performed to date are based on empirical methods, rules-of-thumb, or results obtained from expensive and time-consuming small field-scale pilot tests. Thus, it is very difficult to extrapolate laboratory results to field applications, to accumulate experience, to optimize the operation, and to predict performance of a designed operation. In this paper, the development of a three-dimensional model for the simulation of transport and fate of volatile organic contaminants in the subsurface during a multiple-well SVE operation is presented. The model provides the necessary engineering design tools to optimize the operation under different scenarios. Results of sensitivity analyses on different operating parameters under different subsurface conditions are also presented.