Low-permeability geologic materials are now being scrutinized in increasing detail because of their importance in retarding the transport of hazardous materials that are disposed or stored underground. To determine the permeability both rapidly and accurately in the laboratory, rigorous theoretical analytical method is used to evaluate three laboratory techniques: constant head, constant flow rate, and transient-pulse permeability tests. In addition, a new versatile laboratory system has also been developed. The efficiency and accuracy of these analyses and this new laboratory system are demonstrated through a series of experimental results derived from various types of rock.

AIST Today; Vol. 1, No. 8 (2001) 18