Analysis and stochastic simulation of geometrical properties of conduits in karstic networks

Despite intensive explorations by speleologists, karstic systems remain only partially described as many conduits are not accessible to humans. The classical exploration techniques produce sparse data, leading various uncertainties about the conduit dimensions, essential parameters for flow simulations. Stochastic simulations offer a possibility better assess these uncertainties. In this paper, we propose different methods stochastically simulate properties (size and shape anisotropy) of on already existing skeletons. These approaches, based Sequential Gaussian Simulations (SGS), allow taking conditioning data into account, while respecting intricacy networks. To infer input parameters, perform statistical study dimensions 49 explored networks, focusing their equivalent radius width-height ratio. Thanks definition 1D-curvilinear variograms, demonstrate existence spatial correlation along which is even higher when considering independently each conduit. Finally, using ad hoc algorithms implemented computing both hierarchy inside networks relative position regarding outputs, find no evidence an obvious link between two entities studied metrics. simulation then demonstrated network Arrestelia (Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France), show consistency proposed approach with observations made natural systems.