Significance and Use

This slug test field procedure is used in conjunction with a slug test analytical procedure, such as Test Method D4104 to provide quick and relatively inexpensive estimates of transmissivity.

The slug test provides an advantage over pumping tests in that it does not require the disposal of the large quantities of water that may be produced. This is of special importance when testing a potentially contaminated aquifer. However, slug tests reflect conditions near the well, therefore are influenced by near-well conditions, such as gravel pack, poor well development, and skin effects.

Slug tests may be made in aquifer materials of lower hydraulic conductivity than generally considered suitable for hydraulic testing with pumping tests.

The method of data analysis (analytical procedure) should be known prior to the field testing to ensure that all appropriate dimensions and measurements are properly recorded. Selection of the analytical procedure can be aided by using Guide D4043 , Test Method D5785 , Test Method D5881 , and Test Method D5912 .

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the field procedure for performing an in situ instantaneous change in head (slug) test.

1.2 This test method is used in conjunction with an analytical procedure such as Test Method D4104 to determine aquifer properties.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids

D4043 Guide for Selection of Aquifer Test Method in Determining Hydraulic Properties by Well Techniques

D4104 Test Method (Analytical Procedure) for Determining Transmissivity of Nonleaky Confined Aquifers by Overdamped Well Response to Instantaneous Change in Head (Slug Tests)

D4750 Test Method for Determining Subsurface Liquid Levels in a Borehole or Monitoring Well (Observation Well)

D5785 Test Method for (Analytical Procedure) for Determining Transmissivity of Confined Nonleaky Aquifers by Underdamped Well Response to Instantaneous Change in Head (Slug Test)

D5881 Test Method for (Analytical Procedure) Determining Transmissivity of Confined Nonleaky Aquifers by Critically Damped Well Response to Instantaneous Change in Head (Slug)

D5912 Test Method for (Analytical Procedure) Determining Hydraulic Conductivity of an Unconfined Aquifer by Overdamped Well Response to Instantaneous Change in Head (Slug)

Keywords

aquifer tests; aquifers; groundwater; hydraulic conductivity; hydraulic properties; instantaneous head test; slug tests; storage coefficient; transmissivity: Aquifers; Control wells; Field testing--ground water/aquifers; Ground water; Hydraulic conductivity/transmissivity; Instantaneous head test; Slug tests; Storativity; Transmissivity and reflectivity;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 13.060.10 (Water of natural resources)

DOI: 10.1520/D4044-96R08

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ASTM D4044