Uncertainty Analysis and Identification of Key Parameters Controlling Bacteria Transport Within a Riverbank Filtration Scenario

Managed aquifer recharge through bank filtration is an important method to produce sustainable drinking water. Yet, water quality related transport of pathogens (bacteria and viruses) into groundwater systems from surface waters can be a matter concern, especially in urbanized regions. Based on 1-year monitoring campaign, reactive model was developed for bacteria at riverbank site located Germany. The allows simulating advective-dispersive relies the colloid theory mimic attachment detachment sediment addition inactivation, straining blocking bacteria. Due complexity investigated processes, characterized by high level parametrization, encompassing parameters driving flow as well solute transport. A global sensitivity analysis has been applied identify most relevant with respect piezometric pressure heads, temperature, concentrations chloride, oxygen, coliforms, Escherichia coli. calibrated within stochastic framework, provide parameter estimates quantify their uncertainty. Our results suggest that models are highly sensitive inactivation coefficients, size. Permeability colmation layer key factor its influence residence times. Seasonal variability boundary conditions, anoxic conditions summer velocities during flooding periods, resulted reduction increased observation wells.