Coupled clogging and colloid retention mechanisms in porous media: Insights from Pore-Network modeling

• Published in: Separation and purification technology Vol. 363; p. 132055
• Main Authors: Lin, Dantong, Tang, Minpeng, Zhang, Baoqing, Zhang, Xinghao, Bradford, Scott Alan, Hu, Liming
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 14.08.2025
• Subjects: Blocking; Clogging; Colloid transport and retention; Pore network model; Straining; Blocking; Clogging; Pore network model; Straining; Colloid transport and retention
• ISSN: 1383-5866
• DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2025.132055

Clogging of porous media due to colloid transport and retention is a prevalent issue in various engineering applications such as groundwater recharge and shale gas production. However, the underlying processes responsible for clogging are not yet fully understood, particularly when these processes are coupled with colloid retention phenomena such as attachment, blocking, and straining. In this work, the mechanisms of attachment, blocking, straining, and clogging are represented within the pore bodies and pore throats of a pore network model, providing a more detailed understanding of how these processes interact and contribute to clogging at the pore level. The intricate interplay between colloid retention and clogging are illustrated through breakthrough curves, retention profiles, water flux and pressure difference changes, and variations in permeability. Our findings demonstrate that clogging significantly alters breakthrough patterns, particularly for larger colloids subject to straining, with a discernible connection to blocking. Furthermore, we highlight the pivotal role of boundary conditions, such as constant water flux or pressure conditions. While both conditions may exhibit similar trends in permeability changes over time, they result in distinct breakthrough patterns, which have important implications for both laboratory and field studies. Additionally, we observe that the coupled impact of clogging and colloid retention influences retention profiles, occasionally resulting in non-monotonic profiles. Overall, this study sheds light on the complex dynamics of clogging in porous media and emphasizes the necessity of considering multiple factors to comprehend its effects on colloid transport.