Three‐Dimensional Model for Consolidation‐Induced Solute Transport in a Nearly Saturated Porous Medium

ABSTRACT Understanding solute transport in heterogeneous porous media under variable loading is essential for effective pollution mitigation. However, most existing studies rely on one‐ or two‐dimensional simplifications, limiting their capacity to capture three‐dimensional stress–transport interactions. This study presents a fully three‐dimensional framework that integrates Biot's consolidation theory with the advection–diffusion equation. The model investigates solute transport under non‐uniform loading conditions—including segmented and centre‐decay schemes—and evaluates pollution scenarios involving static, temporally staggered, spatially expanding and stochastic point sources. Results show that non‐uniform loads significantly reshape pore pressure and deformation fields, which jointly govern solute redistribution. Segmented loading creates localized high‐pressure zones, intensifying solute accumulation, while centre‐decay loads promote broader dispersion through persistent transition‐zone gradients. Temporally dynamic sources lead to sequential redistribution patterns, whereas stochastic sources introduce concentration variability and overlapping hotspots. The proposed framework captures complex solute migration behaviours arising from coupled deformation and loading heterogeneity. It offers a versatile tool for analysing real‐world subsurface contamination and contributes to a better understanding of consolidation‐driven transport processes.