SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 2002
STP10621S

Determining the Hydraulic Properties of Saturated, Low-Permeability Geological Materials in the Laboratory: Advances in Theory and Practice

Source

The accurate hydraulic characterization of low-permeability subsurface environments has important practical significance. In order to examine this issue from the perspective of laboratory-based approaches, we review some recent advancements in the theoretical analyses of three different laboratory techniques specifically applied to low-permeability geologic materials: constant-head, constant flow-rate and transient-pulse permeability tests. Some potential strategies for effectively decreasing the time required to confidently estimate the permeability of these materials are presented. In addition, a new and versatile laboratory system is introduced that can implement any of these three test methods while simultaneously subjecting a specimen to high confining pressures and pore pressures, thereby simulating in situ conditions at great depths. The capabilities and advantages of this innovative system are demonstrated using experimental data derived from Shirahama sandstone and Inada granite, two rock types widely encountered in Japan.

Author Information

Zhang, M
Research Center for Deep Geological Environments, AIST, Ibaraki, Japan
Takahashi, M
Research Center for Deep Geological Environments, AIST, Ibaraki, Japan
Morin, RH
United States Geological Survey, Mail Stop 403, Denver Federal Center, Denver, Colorado, U. S. A.
Endo, H
Research Center for Deep Geological Environments, AIST, Ibaraki, Japan
Esaki, T
Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
Price: $25.00
Contact Sales
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Developed by Committee: D18
Pages: 83–98
DOI: 10.1520/STP10621S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5463-6
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-3452-2