Numerical evaluation of prefabricated vertical drain enhanced soil vapour extraction system

摘要

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study is to investigate numerically the performance of a prefabricatedvertical drain (PVD) as a soil vapour extraction well, and the pattern of the induced air flow. Avalidated numerical model for a single PVD extraction well is developed based on the result of awell-designed laboratory air-pumping test. The results of the validated numerical model are used toevaluate the flow efficiency of a PVD extraction well. The validity of the simple analyticalapproach to determine air permeability based on the results of air-pumping tests is also discussed.The output of this study highlights the influence of PVD well resistance on the overallperformance of soil vapour extraction systems, and the effect of the PVD’s oblong cross-section onthe air flow characteristics.