Identification and Estimation of Solute Storage and Release in Karst Water Systems, South China

In karst water systems under concentrated recharge conditions, solute storage and release processes significantly influence pollutant attenuation during underground floods. Research reveals that greater recharge flow or stronger dynamic conditions reduce the solute storage rate to below 10%, while lower water levels increase storage rates up to 26% due to longer residence times in fissures. The study employed advection-dispersion modeling and field tracer tests to characterize two distinct solute transport pathways: a linear pathway through karst conduits and a dynamic pathway involving fissures. By segmenting breakthrough curves, the team quantified solute storage volumes, offering critical insights for groundwater remediation and protection strategies in vulnerable karst environments.

Zhang, L., Luo, M., & Chen, Z. (2020). Identification and Estimation of Solute Storage and Release in Karst Water Systems, South China. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(19), 7219. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17197219