Modelling transport of reactive tracers in a heterogeneous crystalline rock matrix

A numerical reactive transport model for crystalline rocks is developed and evaluated. The model is based on mineral maps generated by X-ray micro computed tomography (X-μCT); the maps used have a resolution of approximately 30 μm and the rock samples are on the cm scale. A computational grid for the intergranular space is generated and a micro-DFN (Discrete Fracture Network) model governs the grid properties. A particle tracking method (Time Domain Random Walk) is used for transport simulations. The basic concept of the model can now be formulated as follows; “when a particle is close to a reactive mineral surface it has a certain probability to get sorbed during a certain time span. Once sorbed it will remain so a certain time”. The model requires a number of input parameters that represent the sorption properties of the reactive minerals. Attempts are made to relate the parameters to traditional distribution parameters. The model is evaluated by comparisons with recent laboratory experimental data. These experiments consider two rock types (veined gneiss and pegmatitic granite) and two radionuclides (cesium and barium). It is concluded that the new reactive transport model can simulate the experimental data in a consistent and realistic way. •Constructed a TDRW model that can simulate experimental data in a consistent and realistic way.•X-µCT data was used successfully to construct a micro-DFN model of studied rock samples.•The intergranular computational grid has a cell size of about 30 micro meter.•The experimental data can be modelled using a single calibration parameter for adsorption time.•Relations to traditional distribution parameters were developed.