The impact of aquifer stratification on saltwater intrusion characteristics. Comprehensive laboratory and numerical study

Laboratory experiments and numerical simulations were utilized in this study to assess the impact of aquifer stratification on saltwater intrusion. Three homogeneous six layered aquifers investigated. Image processing algorithms facilitated precise calculation wedge toe length, width mixing zone, angle It was concluded that length intrusion stratified is predominantly a function permeability contrast, total transmissivity number heterogeneous layers, being positively correlated all three. When lower layer overlays or underlays more permeable zones its zone widens, while it becomes thinner for higher strata. The change (WMZ) applies strata irrespectively their relative vertical position aquifer. Variations applied hydraulic head causes transient widening WMZ. These peak WMZ values are larger during retreat negatively layer's distance from aquifer's bottom. Moreover, steeper angles observed cases where low layers overlay strata, milder ones inverse setups. presence upper results confinement part This occurs until critical difference system. gradient value found be contrast alike.