Coupled mechanical consolidation and contaminant transport modeling of composite barrier systems: a parametric sensitivity analysis

Abstract

This paper presents the results from an extensive parametric sensitivity analysis of coupled consolidation and solute transport in composite landfill liner systems. Analyses investigate various model parameters including waste loading rate, initial void ratio, compression index, hydraulic conductivity and thickness of the clay liner. Identification of dimensionless quantities characterizing transport and consolidation behaviour allows representation and comparison of a large amount of numerical data in compact form. Utilizing this approach, we could identify the key determinants governing contaminant transport through liner systems. Numerical results reveal that in cases of high liner compre..