Automated image analysis for experimental investigations of salt water intrusion in coastal aquifers

G. Robinson, G. A. Hamill, Ashraf A. Ahmed

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    37 Citations (Scopus)
    456 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    A novel methodology has been developed to quantify important saltwater intrusion parameters in a sandbox style experiment using image analysis. Existing methods found in the literature are based mainly on visual observations, which are subjective, labour intensive and limits the temporal and spatial resolutions that can be analysed. A robust error analysis was undertaken to determine the optimum methodology to convert image light intensity to concentration. Results showed that defining a relationship on a pixel-wise basis provided the most accurate image to concentration conversion and allowed quantification of the width of mixing zone between the saltwater and freshwater. A large image sample rate was used to investigate the transient dynamics of saltwater intrusion, which rendered analysis by visual observation unsuitable. This paper presents the methodologies developed to minimise human input and promote autonomy, provide high resolution image to concentration conversion and allow the quantification of intrusion parameters under transient conditions.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)350-360
    Number of pages11
    JournalJournal of Hydrology
    Volume530
    Early online date28 Sept 2015
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Nov 2015

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