Modeling radial groundwater flow in fractured media using fracture continuum approach

Abstract Two modeling approaches are commonly utilized for simulating flow in fractured formations: the discrete fracture network (DFN) approach and stochastic continuum (SC) approach. Although DFN is most accurate, it has computational memory constraints. The SC ensures fast processing but results system over-homogenization. (FC) arises as an integrated technique that incorporates merits of both approaches. main objective this research to develop a computationally efficient based on FC simulate radial groundwater towards wells through two-dimensional media under steady transient conditions. A generation performed Monte Carlo framework taking into account positioning. solved by applying mass balance equation at intersections. Fracture segments mapped onto grids 1 × m 5 resolution conductivity specific storage cells. grid problem via MODFLOW. Flow head discrepancies between proposed (reference solution) assessed grid-conductivity correction needed preserve presence wells. porosity estimation identify grid-pressure response. Promising observed fine coarse models. Some studied cases show large maximum drawdown obtained model. Accordingly, new handle such found simulations (e.g., 11% 26.12% minimized − 0.93% 1.03% two cases). adopted mapping when interest estimate average over aquifer correlation coefficients 0.89 0.97 models, respectively compared However, limitations estimating locations