Slug test in an unconfined aquifer: A Richards` equation perspective
- HSI Geotrans, Roswell, GA (United States)
- Lawrence Berkeley National Lab., CA (United States)
Slug tests have been used for over 30 years as a means of evaluating hydraulic parameters of aquifers. The interpretation of transient water level data from these tests has almost exclusively been based on fitting the data to analytical solutions or on using semi-analytical methods. Because these methods are constrained by simplifying assumptions, it is useful to investigate the conditions under which these assumptions are reasonable so that the interpretation of field data can be carried out with increased confidence. To this end, the authors investigate the transient flow of water in an unconfined aquifer during a slug test, using a numerical model that solves the generalized Richards` equation. The model accounts for saturated-unsaturated flow, time-dependent seepage face in the well, various combinations of blank casings and well screens, and injection or withdrawal tests. Parametric studies were conducted using a fully penetrating well in a 10 meter thick, homogeneous, isotropic aquifer with an initial hydrostatic condition in order to provide insights into such issues as (1) the difference in response between injection and bail-out tests, (2) the significance of flow through the transient seepage face, and (3) the role of the unsaturated zone. An examination of the flow anatomy suggests that flow in the unsaturated zone is significant and important, although the response of the water level in the well may not be very sensitive to the unsaturated zone processes. A second part of the present study investigated the reasonableness of widely used techniques of interpretation.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Berkeley National Lab., CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Energy Research, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC03-76SF00098
- OSTI ID:
- 578620
- Report Number(s):
- LBNL--40966; ON: DE98051540
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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