Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Landfill Leachate Emission in Unsaturated Sandy Soils

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

This research represents a novel investigation into the infiltration of municipal waste landfill leachate into unsaturated sandy soil, with a particular focus on the propagation of pollutants. The significance of understanding pollutant emission in unsaturated soil is importance due to its profound environmental impact on ecosystems and its potential challenges to infrastructure development. The study examines key parameters, emphasizing initial matric suction and permeability, using both numerical and laboratory modeling techniques to compare pollutant emission under various conditions, including unsaturated soil in drying path and initially dry soil. Results reveal soil properties (density, permeability, water content) profoundly influence pollutant penetration. Advanced image processing estimates pollutant concentrations at different depths, offering accurate insights. The results derived from the image analysis were then compared with the outcomes obtained from the numerical modeling. This innovative approach holds promise for future applications and environmental monitoring. Findings aid strategies to mitigate landfill leachate effects, informing pollutant containment and prevention in unsaturated soil for sustainable environmental management.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Civil Engineering and Applied Solutions
Volume 2, Issue 1
January 2026
Pages 58-73

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 July 2025
  • Revise Date: 23 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 24 July 2025
  • First Publish Date: 24 July 2025

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