An h-Adaptive Finite Element Model for Environmental Transport Prediction

Abstract

The development and implementation of an h-adaptive algorithm with a general finite element solver has been achieved for predicting species transport and dispersion within complex problem geometries. Coupling h-adaptation with a Petrov-Galerkin finite element algorithm produces very accurate solutions while minimizing computer time and storage demands. The finite element method, when coupled with h-adaptation, is well suited for calculating atmospheric and groundwater transport. Future research efforts will include the use of Delaunay triangulation (with the ability to produce hexahedrals), and h-p adaptation.