A new approach for determining permeability characteristics of rock using slug testing techniques

A new technique of determining hydraulic flow characteristics of rock in the laboratory is presented. The technique is a laboratory simulation of a well known in situ ‘slug’ testing method where aquifer parameters are determined by the removal of water slug in a test borehole. The time taken for the water level in the borehole to return to its original rest level, is observed. The results are treated using an analytical technique, first developed by Theis 1]. The laboratory technique involves a test on a very small scale, with a slow rate of rise of water in a drill hole. The laboratory equipment and test procedure are described together with the advantages and limitations of the system. The technique offers an inexpensive, simple and effective method for determining the permeability of standard core samples, whilst keeping the amount of sample preparation to a minimum. The technique offers a potential for testing of most rock types under a variety of loading conditions.