A 3D physical model (3.00×0.60×0.60m) was constructed using pipe-matrix coupling concept to investigate the effect of conduit connectivity on flow exchange between conduit network and matrix domain resembling karst aquifers. The conduit network was simulated by two horizontally connected perforated pipes, allowing the connection to be either enabled or disabled based on the specific experiment, through diverter valves. The conduit diameter was 0.50 inches, with a perforation ratio of 30%. Sandy soil was used to simulate the matrix domain. Four experiments were conducted to examine different cases: (1) a single flowing conduit unconnected non-flowing conduit, (2) a single flowing conduit connected to non-flowing conduit, (3) two unconnected flowing conduits, and (4) two connected flowing conduits. The matrix head was higher than the conduits in all experiments. Results indicated that the flow is from matrix to conduit in all cases with higher flow exchange in cases of connected conduits compared to the cases where the conduits are unconnected.
 
 
Special Issue of AEIC 2024 (Civil Engineering  Session)