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The Hybrid Finite-Element Mixing-Cell method: a new flexible method for modelling mine water problems
Brouyère, Serge; Orban, Philippe; Wildemeersch, Samuel et al.
2008In Rapantova, N.; Hrkal, Z. (Eds.) Mine Water and the Environment Proceedings of IWMA 2008
Peer reviewed
 

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Keywords :
Groundwater modelling; modelling mine water problems; Hybrid Finite-Element Mixing-Cell method; abandoned coalfield; groundwater rebound
Abstract :
[en] Mine closure is often accompanied by a stop in dewatering operations. This generally induces groundwater rebound in the mined rock system with short and long term consequences that may be disastrous: soil instabilities such as landslides and subsidence reactivation, flooding, flooded basement and acid mine drainage. Modelling tools can be very advantageous and efficient in helping understanding and managing such problems, however, classical modelling approaches have proved to be relatively unsuited to such contexts. Because of the former mining operations, the underground geological system is strongly disturbed (excavated, fractured and collapsed zones, galleries, large shafts, etc.). Using complex spatially distributed modelling approaches such as 3D finite elements usually lead to strong difficulties related to the lack of data, the complexity of geological and hydrogeological conditions (complex geometry, non Darcian fluxes…). On the other hand, using a simplified approach such as black-box models often leads to oversimplification of the reality: particularly when interactions between the mined system and its surrounding geological and hydrogeological environment are very important. A new modelling approach is developed for simulation of the groundwater flow in such complex environments. It combines, in a single fully integrated simulator, a representation of the unmined area by a classical finite element modelling technique, together with conceptualisation of the worked areas and galleries by a group of mixing cells connected by pipes. The whole assembled groundwater flow model allows an accurate estimation and representation of (a) water infiltration (precipitations, river losses …) through the unsaturated zone reaching the exploited area (recharge of boxes) and (b) water exchanges with adjacent aquifers. The model can estimate the flow of groundwater in and around the minefield and the mean water level in the boxes. It is also capable of considering water exchanges between different mined zones, through connection pathways such as old roadways galleries and shafts. Modelling concepts and equations are described and illustrated using basic and advances validation examples. A real case application corresponding to an abandoned coalfield in the region of Liège (Belgium) is used to illustrate the suitability and efficiency of the approach.
Research center :
Aquapôle - ULiège
Disciplines :
Geological, petroleum & mining engineering
Author, co-author :
Brouyère, Serge  ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département Argenco : Secteur GEO3 > Hydrogéologie & Géologie de l'environnement
Orban, Philippe  ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département Argenco : Secteur GEO3 > Hydrogéologie & Géologie de l'environnement
Wildemeersch, Samuel ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département Argenco : Secteur GEO3 > Hydrogéologie & Géologie de l'environnement
Couturier, Julie ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département Argenco : Secteur GEO3 > Hydrogéologie & Géologie de l'environnement
Gardin, Nicolas;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département Argenco : Secteur GEO3 > Hydrogéologie et Géologie de l'Environnement
Dassargues, Alain  ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département Argenco : Secteur GEO3 > Hydrogéologie & Géologie de l'environnement
Language :
English
Title :
The Hybrid Finite-Element Mixing-Cell method: a new flexible method for modelling mine water problems
Publication date :
2008
Event name :
10th International Mine Water Association Congress
Event place :
Karlovy Vary, Czechia
Event date :
2-5 June 2008
Audience :
International
Main work title :
Mine Water and the Environment Proceedings of IWMA 2008
Editor :
Rapantova, N.
Hrkal, Z.
Pages :
429-431
Peer reviewed :
Peer reviewed
Available on ORBi :
since 06 January 2009

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