Aquifer flow parameter estimation using coupled meshless methods and metaheuristic algorithms

A reliable analysis of various groundwater problems requires accurate input of aquifer parameters. However, field measurement of such parameters is tedious and expensive. Inverse modelling by Simulation-Optimization (SO) resolves this limitation. In this study, the unknown transmissivity of confined aquifers is estimated using SO models. Three simulation models of strong, weak and hybrid categories of meshless methods, namely, Radial Point Collocation Method (RPCM), Meshless Local Petrov Galerkin (MLPG) and Meshless Weak Strong (MWS) form, are coupled with metaheuristic algorithms of Differential Evolution (DE), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), resulting in nine SO models. Five of these nine models are novel SO models and first-time application of WOA for groundwater flow parameter estimation. The application of models to heterogeneous hypothetical and complex field-type aquifers prove that solutions are similar to true transmissivities. This study provides an insight into the selection of suitable SO model based on available resources and requirements.