BioTracker
1-D Modeling of Natural Attenuation Processes
BioTracker is a specialized natural attenuation screening model that incorporates unique visualization tools for assessing the natural attenuation
of chlorinated solvents. Special calibration tools allow you to quickly assess the fit between the modeling results and your field data.
The BioTracker model interface is integrated with the same Project Data Management System and chemical properties database (CHEMbase) used by other
MoNA ToolKit products such as SEQUENCE and BioTrends. This means that the model simulation results can easily be compared to field data which is automatically extracted from the project database.
The simulation code behind the BioTracker system is based on a 3-D finite difference numerical model called BioRedox. This model was developed based
on MT3D to simulate coupled biodegradation-redox reactions. The current version of BioTracker is capable of modeling one-dimensional, multi-species contaminant transport in groundwater using a uniform groundwater
velocity. BioTracker is capable of simulating straight-chain sequential transformation reactions for any number of chlorinated solvent or radio nuclide daughter products.
BioTracker is also capable of simulating the accumulation of chloride which is known to occur during the sequential reduction of chlorinated species
such as TCE, DCE, and vinyl chloride.
BioTracker has been developed with a unique visualization tool that allows model simulation results to be overlaid directly on a site map. A special
particle tracking algorithm is used to delineate the primary flowpath downgradient from the source zone, based on observed groundwater elevations. The one-dimensional grid is then aligned along this flowpath, and
"stream-tube" contours are used to show the model results on the site map.
The image below shows an example of a BioTracker 1-D model grid that was determined based on a particle tracking routine (which used a Surfer
contour (GRD) file of measured groundwater elevations as input).
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