Characterizing Reactive Transport Behavior in a Three-Dimensional Discrete Fracture Network

While several studies have linked network and in-fracture scale properties to conservative transport behavior in subsurface fractured media, on reactive cases remain relatively underdeveloped. In this study, we explore the of an irreversible kinetic reaction during interaction two solute plumes, one consisting species A other B. When plumes converge, these react kinetically form a new C via $$A+B\xrightarrow {k} C$$ . This system is studied using three-dimensional discrete fracture (DFN) model coupled with Lagrangian particle tracking. We find that interplay topology chemical solutes controls processes. The drives B together, dictate whether how quickly occurs. Results demonstrate reactions are most likely occur high-velocity fractures make up backbone. between species’ characterized by non-dimensional Damköhler (Da) number. show spatial distribution sensitive Da, which subsequently influences late-time tailing outlet breakthrough time distributions. results study provide initial insights into occurs network, methodology can be applied wide range media environments contexts.