Method and apparatus for determining the hydraulic conductivity of earthen material
An earthen material hydraulic conductivity determining apparatus includes: (a) a semipermeable membrane having a fore earthen material bearing surface and an opposing rear liquid receiving surface; (b) a pump in fluid communication with the semipermeable membrane rear surface, the pump being capable of delivering liquid to the membrane rear surface at a plurality of selected variable flow rates or at a plurality of selected variable pressures; (c) a liquid reservoir in fluid communication with the pump, the liquid reservoir retaining a liquid for pumping to the membrane rear surface; and (d) a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the membrane rear surface to measure pressure of liquid delivered to the membrane by the pump. Preferably, the pump comprises a pair of longitudinally opposed and aligned syringes which are operable to simultaneously fill one syringe while emptying the other. Methods of determining the hydraulic conductivity of earthen material are also disclosed. 15 figs.
- Research Organization:
- EG & G Idaho Inc; Lockheed Martin Idaho Technology Co
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC07-94ID13223; AC07-76ID01570
- Assignee:
- Lockheed Idaho Technologies Co., Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5,520,248/A/
- Application Number:
- PAN: 8-368,180
- OSTI ID:
- 238059
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Tensiometer and method of determining soil moisture potential in below-grade earthen soil
Tensiometer and method of determining soil moisture potential in below-grade earthen soil