Source
Abstract Book, U.S. Department of the Interior Conference on the Environment and Safety, April 24-28, 1995. Washington, DC: U.S. Bureau of Mines, 1995 Apr; :61
Abstract
The U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) has developed PowerPC software that simulates groundwater flow in mining regions. This software employs the analytic element method to model two dimensional fluid flow through homogeneous, saturated porous media. The analytic element method differs from finite difference/element techniques in that it defines flow systems in terms of discrete geometric flow components instead of grids. These flow components, called analytic elements, are particularly useful for representing the complex geometry and hydrology of mine features such as underground voids, ore deposits, tailings, wells, and ponds. USBM researchers have used this software to delineate well head protect ion ones, characterize in situ leach systems, assess mine dewatering methods, and analyze acid drainage problems. Although this software was developed to model mining hydrology systems, its functions can be applied to other issues. It can estimate the flow of pollutants from accidents and hazardous waste sites, and assist in the design and assessment of remediation techniques that use groundwater pump-and-treatment methods. Other possible applications include remediation of abandoned landfills, ammunition dumps, and mill tailings.
