Integrated Two-Dimensional Surface and Three-Dimensional Subsurface Contaminant Transport Model Considering Soil Erosion and Sorption

Abstract

To investigate the complex hydrological, morphodynamic, and environmental processes in watersheds, a physically-based integrated two-dimensional (2D) surface and three-dimensional (3D) subsurface model for flow, soil erosion and transport, and contaminant transport in the surface-subsurface system is presented in this paper. The model simulates the rainfall-induced surface flow by solving the depth-averaged 2D diffusion wave equation and the variably-saturated subsurface flow by solving the 3D mixed-form Richards equation. The surface and subsurface flow equations are coupled using the continuity conditions of pressure and exchange flux at the ground surface. The model uses the concept of nonequilibrium in the depth-averaged 2D simulation of nonuniform total-load sediment transport in upland fields, considering detachments by rainsplash and hydraulic erosion driven by surface flow. The integrated 2D surface and 3D subsurface contaminant transport model takes into account the contaminant changes due to sediment sorption and desorption, as well as exchanges between surface and subsurface domains due to infiltration, diffusion, and bed change. The model applies the same set of surface equations of flow, sediment, and contaminant transport for describing both upland areas and streams, so that no special treatments are required at their interface. The established model has been evaluated by comparisons with published experimental, numerical, and analytical data and then applied in an agricultural watershed. The model is suitable for wetland areas and agricultural watersheds in which streams are not very narrow and deep, and meanwhile a relatively fine mesh that can distinguish the streams is preferred.