⭐️ Presented by the Center for the Advancement of Multicultural Perspectives on Science (DEI | OAD)

Verónica L. Morales

Associate Professor, Civil & Environmental Engineering

Transport and Reactions in Structurally Dynamic Soils and Rocks: From Dissolution to Bioclogging

Abstract: Reactive transport in porous media is of central importance to many environmental applications spanning groundwater contamination, oil recovery, and geotechnics. Accurate descriptions of water flow, chemical transport, and biochemical reactions in soils and rocks warrant a firm understanding of the pore-scale dynamics at play. The underlying structure of porous media impacts the uniformity of fluid flow, the resulting chemical gradients, and consequently how much reaction will be achieved. The fact that some reactions act to alter the pore structure complicates things further. This talk will investigate two processes that modify the pore structure as a consequence of a reaction: dissolution and bioclogging. Through a deeper understanding of the pore structural changes, evolving flow, and mixing dynamics, it is possible to infer when and how the system can up/down regulate the overall reactivity in time to better target the desired engineering application. 

Check out our other CAMPOS speakers lined up for the 2024-2025 year on our CAMPOS Colloquium page!