PNNL

Abstract

Hydraulic parameters including the pore connectivity/tortuosity tensor (L_i) were inversely estimated using the STOMP numerical simulator coupled with the parameter estimation code, UCODE. Results show that six of eight parameters required for a modified van Genuchten-Mualem model could be inversely estimated using water content measured during transient infiltration from a surface line source and approximated prior information. Soils showed evidence of saturation-dependent anisotropy that was well described with the connectivity tensor. Variability of the vertical saturated hydraulic conductivity was larger than the horizontal. The autocorrelation ranges for the horizonatal and vertical Ks; the inverse of the air-entry value, and the horizontal connectivity were between 2.4 and 4.6 m whereas the van Genuchten shape parameter, n, and saturated water content showed no autocorrelation. Accurate upscaling of hydraulic properties requires the correct assessment of the connectivity of facies.