Field techniques using borehole packers in hydrogeological investigations

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Abstract
Summary: As part of a hydrogeological investigation in a Permo-Triassic Sandstone aquifer in northwest England, various methods of field permeability testing have been developed and evaluated. These techniques involve the use of borehole packers to isolate specific test sections and permeability measurements made by either injection or pumping tests. Field results have been compared with both laboratory permeability measurements and conventional pumping tests. The test procedures were found to have a significant effect on the results obtained. Packers have also been employed to examine the vertical distribution of piezometric heads within an aquifer, both in pumping and non-pumping conditions, and to obtain groundwater samples from selected horizons. Some of the test results are presented to illustrate the value of packer techniques in hydrogeological investigations.