Hidrogeologia Aplicada

Objectives

The main objectives are to: (1) Provide students with a practical understanding of hydrogeological concepts and principles, emphasizing their application in real-world scenarios such as groundwater exploration and resource evaluation. (2) Familiarize students with field methods and techniques used in hydrogeological investigations, including well drilling, aquifer testing, groundwater sampling, and geophysical surveys. Provide hands- on experience through fieldwork exercises. (3) Introduce students to groundwater modelling and simulation tools used for predictive analysis, resource management, and contaminant transport modelling. Develop proficiency in interpreting simulation results. (4) Enhance students' ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, including clients, regulatory agencies, and community members.

Syllabus

1. Groundwater investigation techniques. Measurement and interpretation of groundwater level data. Well and borehole design and construction methods. Borehole hydrographs and barometric efficiency. Monitoring data handling and interpretation. 2. Field estimation of aquifer properties. Piezometer tests. Pumping tests (Thiem equilibrium method; Theis non-equilibrium method; Cooper–Jacob straight-line method; Recovery test method; Principle of superposition of drawdown; Leaky, unconfined and bounded aquifer systems). 3. Geophysical techniques. Downhole geophysical logging. Surface geophysical techniques (seismic refraction survey method; electrical resistivity survey method; electromagnetic survey method; gravity survey method). Examples of surface geophysical surveying in the field. 4. Groundwater modelling. Applications of groundwater models. Data requirements. Finite-difference models. Finite-element models. Creating a simple mudflow model. Discretization in time and space (grid and stress periods). Initial and boundary conditions. Examples. 5. Groundwater resources, governance and management. Regional and large-scale groundwater development schemes. Managed aquifer recharge. Wetland hydrogeology. Climate change and groundwater resources. Groundwater response time to climate change. Groundwater pumping and greenhouse gas emissions. Adaptation to climate change. Groundwater and energy resources. Future challenges for groundwater governance and management.

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of: (1) geology, mathematics, physics and chemistry; (2) topography; (3) Office tools (Excel); (4) GIS (desirable). Hydrogeology is strongly recommended.

Cross Competence Component

Students will foster teamwork and collaboration skills through group projects, presentations, and discussions. They will develop effective communication skills that are essential for conveying complex hydrogeological concepts to diverse audiences, including colleagues, stakeholders, and the general public. Problem-solving abilities that are necessary for addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by groundwater management and environmental protection.

Laboratorial Component

The course has a practical component where students gain practical experience in modelling techniques for groundwater investigation and management, and learn how to integrate geological, hydrogeological and meteorological data collected from various sources.

Programming And Computing Component

During the completion of the series of assignments, students acquire skills in collecting, organizing, and integrating diverse geological, hydrological and meteorological datasets. They conduct statistical and trend analyses, formulate conceptual models and set up and run simple groundwater flow models. Data processing techniques are compatible with Excel, GIS and modelling tools (MODFLOW, MODELMUSE).