Skip to main content

On Improving Current Colloid Filtration Theory Models


EMSL Project ID
25717

Abstract

This project uses trajectory simulations of colloidal particles in saturated porous media to obtain theoretical predictions of particle transport and deposition. The trajectory simulations provide a fully Lagrangian description of particle transport to granular surfaces as a result of interception, gravitational sedimentation, the London van der Waals force, Brownian diffusion, and hydrodynamic retardation with the effects of all mechanisms considered simultaneously. For the simulation of diffusion, a Monte Carlo analysis is employed and an algorithm is included to account for the effect of variations in the diffusion coefficient with respect to separation distance at close separations. Preliminary results of this simulation methodology indicate it may provide more accurate results than existing equations that correlate the collector efficiency (rate of contact with surfaces) with system parameters, due to the simultaneous simulation of all mechanisms and also the consideration of heretofore uncaptured effects such as the particle size dependence of hydrodynamic retardation and the van der Waals force. This project will conduct simulations over a wide range of parameter values representing common conditions experienced in both natural and engineered systems to yield a new correlation equation that will be compared against existing equations via experimental data reported in the literature.

Project Details

Project type
Large-Scale EMSL Research
Start Date
2007-06-14
End Date
2008-06-15
Status
Closed

Team

Principal Investigator

Timothy Ginn
Institution
University of California, Davis

Team Members

Kirk Nelson
Institution
Battelle Columbus

Related Publications

Nelson KE, and TR Ginn. 2011. "New Collector Efficiency Equation for Colloid Filtration in Both Natural and Engineered Flow Conditions." Water Resources Research 47(5):W05543. doi:10.1029/2010WR009587