Research Article

Simulation of the Spatial Distribution of Hydraulic Conductivity in Porous Media through Different Methods

Table 3

Comparison of the methods.

GeoelectricalAdvantagesThe method is easy to operate, economic, nondestructive,
efficient, and effective at rapidly accessing large amounts of data.
DisadvantagesThe method does not adequately consider relevant factors, thus affecting porosity and hydraulic conductivity as well as the medium composition, saturation degree structure, and so forth. In addition, the determination of a and m values leads to a large error. When measuring resistivity, the method also causes errors, such as contact resistance.
Applicable conditionsIt is more suitable for a wide area, contaminated strata, semiarid regions, and complex geological conditions. It is especially suitable for the delineation of aquifers and the investigation of water pollution in water-rich media. It is unsuitable for strata with high clay content.

Grain size distribution methodAdvantagesThe method is economical and can obtain a large amount of particle size data. Through its automatic training with ANN, it is a fast and convenient method. ANNs can perform a large amount of calculations and feature a strong nonlinear fitting ability.
DisadvantagesThis method controls training settings and prevents overtraining, thereby relying heavily on computers. Given that the initial value is not set, the predicted value is unstable. The evaluation of its estimated hydraulic conductivity needs further examination.
Applicable conditionsIts application is broad. It can be applied to highly heterogeneous and complex regions.