Establishment and Application of Surface Water Quality Model Based on PhreeqcRM

In this study, we developed a novel water quality model that integrated hydrodynamic, solute transport, and geochemical reactions processes. This model was built upon the open-source ELCIRC hydrodynamic model, the TVD-format solute transport model, and the PhreeqcRM geochemical reaction engine. The accuracy of the model was rigorously validated using a 2D chain decay analytical solution, demonstrating its capability to accurately simulate water flow, solute transport, and chemical reactions. To evaluate the practical applicability of the model, case studies involving the 2012 Huaihe River benzene leakage accident and the acetic acid leakage accident in the Gulei sea area were simulated. Findings indicate that the model effectively captures the diffusion and attenuation dynamics of the benzene contamination plume. Furthermore, it accurately depicts the reaction–diffusion interaction with seawater following acetic acid release. Notably, the versatility and flexibility of the model were further demonstrated by its ability to simulate a wide range of pollutants and their associated biochemical processes. This addresses the limitations of existing water quality models and provides a powerful tool for environmental monitoring and assessment. The results of this study offer valuable insights for improving water quality management and emergency response strategies in the face of environmental pollution incidents.