Premium
Vadose Zone Characterization of Low‐Permeability Sediments Using Field Permeameters
Author(s) -
Stephens Daniel B.,
Unruh Mark,
Havlena Jeff,
Knowlton Robert G.,
Mattson Earl,
Cox Warren
Publication year - 1988
Publication title -
groundwater monitoring and remediation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.677
H-Index - 47
eISSN - 1745-6592
pISSN - 1069-3629
DOI - 10.1111/j.1745-6592.1988.tb00991.x
Subject(s) - hydraulic conductivity , borehole , permeability (electromagnetism) , vadose zone , hazardous waste , geotechnical engineering , environmental science , geology , radioactive waste , soil science , soil water , waste management , engineering , chemistry , biochemistry , membrane
Abstract Measurement of the saturated hydraulic conductivity of material in the unsaturated zone beneath proposed surface impoundments is important for predicting seepage rates of water and contaminants. Hazardous waste disposal facilities are commonly sited on the basis of the low permeability of the geologic materials beneath the site. Field measurement of the saturated hydraulic conductivity of low‐permeability materials may be accomplished using air‐entry permeameters and borehole permeameters. The results of a coordinated field and laboratory investigation of low‐permeability materials at a hazardous waste facility are presented. The different methods of testing and analysis are compared and discussed. In general, air‐entry permeameters and borehole permeameters are useful for measuring the saturated hydraulic conductivity of low‐permeability materials.