Improving clogging predictions at managed aquifer recharge sites: a quantitative assessment on the vertical distribution of intrusive fines

Abstract Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is an emerging approach to enhancing water storage capacity, improving supply security and countering groundwater overexploitation. However, physical clogging, i.e. accumulation of suspended organic inorganic solids within a sediment matrix, can lead significant reduction infiltration rates present difficulties in the functioning MAR infrastructure. Clogging subsequent capacity are often quantified based on monitoring data or field investigations, rather than forecasts. Existing predictive models require specific parameterisation, making application heterogeneous sites, under changing conditions, difficult. Hence, generalised understanding how intrusive fine particles distribute over depth during cycles for typical basin sediments needed predict clogging susceptibility patterns already planning phase before operation schemes. The study will contribute operational reliability, deduce optimised management practices, and, ideally, reduce maintenance efforts. To achieve this goal, from different soil-column experiments reviewed complemented with establish generally valid relationship vertical distribution fines consideration primary porous media’s intruding particles’ characteristics. Obtained results allow quantification amount retained at surface media, formation filter cake, description depth, total depth. Finally, findings applied real case site showcase effects rates.