3D multiple-point geostatistical simulation of joint subsurface redox and geological architectures

Abstract. Nitrate contamination of subsurface aquifers is an ongoing environmental challenge due to nitrogen (N) leaching from intensive N fertilization and management on agricultural fields. The distribution fate nitrate in are primarily governed by geological, hydrological geochemical conditions the subsurface. Therefore, we propose a novel approach modeling both geology redox architectures simultaneously high-resolution 3D (25m×25m×2m) using multiple-point geostatistical (MPS) simulation. Data consist (1) mainly resistivities mapped with towed transient electromagnetic measurements (tTEM), (2) lithologies borehole observations, (3) colors reported (4) chemistry analyses water samples. Based collected data supplementary surface maps digital elevation models, simulation domain was subdivided into geological elements similar traits depositional histories. conceptual understandings study system were introduced as training images for each element. On basis these conditioning data, independent realizations jointly simulated inside element stitched together larger model. joint architectures, which one strengths MPS compared other methods, ensures that two general show coherent patterns. Despite inherent subjectivity interpretations boundaries, they enable easy intuitive incorporation qualitative knowledge geochemistry quantitative simulations architectures. Altogether, conclude our effectively simulates consistent can be used transport, may lead better understanding future more targeted regulation agriculture.