Corrado Fidelibus

Simulation of the Steady-State Flow in Discrete Fracture Networks with Non-Conforming Meshes and Extended Finite Elements

In this paper a numerical method for the simulation of the steady-state fluid flow in discrete fracture networks is described. It is based on the use of non-conforming meshes, enrichment functions and an optimization procedure. The meshing process is performed on each fracture independently of the other fractures, i.e. without geometrical conformity at the intersections (traces). The slope discontinuities due to the flux exchange at the traces are then captured with the enrichment functions of the extended finite elements, and finally a functional is minimized by resorting to an optimization procedure. The method can be easily implemented for parallel computers being based on many small independent problems. In order to show the effectiveness of the method and the quality of the results, simulations of fluid flow in simple networks are illustrated.

Water resource management in karstic catchments: the case of the Asso Torrent basin (Southern Italy)

In karstic endorheic basins the hydraulic works for runoff regulation, marshland reclaiming and defense from inundations usually consist of channels tributary to sinkholes vertically connected to aquifers through karstic conduits and fractures. The drainage capacity of such basins reduces as conduits and fractures are progressively clogged by sediments; thus, floodings may occur during heavy rains. The sinks may also be utilized to inject treated wastewater underground. This note concerns the management issues of the Asso Torrent basin (Italy), where the recharge through water sinks preserves the deep aquifer from saltwater intrusion. The basin represents a controversial case for which the sequence of infrastructures produced a critical system, and nowadays, it is difficult to find a compromise among mitigation of flood hazard, safeguard of groundwater resources and preservation of human health. The hydrogeological framework and the hydraulic works executed in the basin are described, followed by considerations on the environmental effects of the decision-making process. Finally, statements concerning alternative measures for the management of the water resources are given. Management actions conforming to the Integrated Water Resources Management recommendations fail in the studied case because there is an intrinsic difficulty to transform the related concepts to practical and robust solutions.

Laboratory experiments on diffusion and sorption of heavy metals in a marine clay

Sorption capacity and diffusion of the marine clay of Taranto industrial area (Southern Italy) with respect to heavy metals at low concentration levels were measured by means of Batch-Equilibrium and Column tests. Single-species and multiple-species solutions of Cd

Water management problems in a karst flood-prone endorheic basin

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A computer simulation of groundwater salinization risk in Salento peninsula (Italy)

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Assessment of Specific Yield in Karstified Fractured Rock through the Water-Budget Method

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