On several numerical strategies to solve Richards’ equation in heterogeneous media with finite volumes

We propose several numerical approaches building on upstream mobility two-point flux approximation finite volumes to solve Richards’ equation in domains made of rock-types. Our study encompasses four different schemes corresponding ways approximate the nonlinear transmission condition systems arising at interface between rocks consisting continuity pressure and fluxes, as well resolution strategies based Newton’s method with variable switch. benchmark robustness accuracy methods filling drainage test cases standard nonlinearities Brooks-Corey van Genuchten-Mualem type, challenging steep nonlinearities.