Assessment of the Hydraulic Performance of Radial Collector Wells in the Sand Dunes of Northwestern Libya

Abstract

  This study aims to evaluate the hydraulic performance of radial collector wells constructed in sand dune formations in northwestern Libya during 1964–1965. These wells were designed to exploit rainwater lenses accumulated within the sands, whereas conventional vertical wells in the region often yield highly saline water. Field data indicated that the productivity of radial wells ranges between 20–25 m³/h, with total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations between 2000–3000 mg/, compared to 17,000 mg/L recorded in adjacent vertical wells. The findings confirm that radial well technology provides a practical and economical alternative, offering better water quality, higher productivity, and longer operational lifespan. The study recommends expanding the application of this technique in sand dune areas to strengthen potable water supplies for domestic use.