Designation: D6391 − 11

Standard Test Method for

Field Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity Using
Borehole Infiltration1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6391; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope conditions when trapped air is not present (3). This test method
1.1 This test method covers field measurement of hydraulic develops the “field-saturated” condition.
conductivity (also referred to as coeffıcient of permeability) of 1.5 Experience with this test method has been predomi-
porous materials using a cased borehole technique. When nantly in materials having a degree of saturation of 70 % or
isotropic conditions can be assumed and a flush borehole is more, and where the stratification or plane of compaction is
employed, the method yields the hydraulic conductivity of the relatively horizontal. Its use in other situations should be
porous material. When isotropic conditions cannot be assumed, considered experimental.
the method yields limiting values of the hydraulic conductivity 1.6 As in the case of all tests for hydraulic conductivity, the
in the vertical direction (upper limit) if a single stage is results of this test pertain only to the volume of soil permeated.
conducted and the horizontal direction (lower limit) if a second Extending the results to the surrounding area requires both
stage is conducted. For anisotropic conditions, determination multiple tests and the judgment of qualified personnel. The
of the actual hydraulic conductivity requires further analysis by number of tests required depends on among other things: the
qualified personnel. size of the area, the uniformity of the material in that area, and
1.2 This test method may be used for compacted fills or the variation in data from multiple tests.
natural deposits, above or below the water table, that have a 1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
mean –3hydraulic conductivity less than or equal to 1×10–5 m/s standard unless other units specifically are given. By tradition
(1×10 cm/s). in U.S. practice, hydraulic conductivity is reported in cm/s
1.3 Hydraulic conductivity greater than 1×10 –5 m/s may be although the common SI units for hydraulic conductivity are
determined by ordinary borehole tests, for example, U.S. m/s.
Bureau of Reclamation 7310 (1)2; however, the resulting value 1.8 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
is an apparent conductivity.

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guide for significant digits and rounding established in Practice
1.4 For this test method, a distinction must be made between D6026.
“saturated” (Ks) and “field-saturated” (Kfs) hydraulic conduc- 1.8.1 The procedures in this standard that are used to specify
tivity. True saturated conditions seldom occur in the vadose how data are collected, recorded, and calculated are regarded
zone except where impermeable layers result in the presence of as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of
perched water tables. During infiltration events or in the event the significant digits that should generally be retained. The
of a leak from a lined pond, a “field-saturated” condition procedures do not consider material variation, purpose for
develops. True saturation does not occur due to entrapped air obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
(2). The entrapped air prevents water from moving in air-filled ations for the objectives of the user. Increasing or reducing the
pores, which may reduce the hydraulic conductivity measured significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with
in the field by as much as a factor of two compared with these considerations is common practice. Consideration of the
significant digits to be used in analysis methods for engineering
design is beyond the scope of this standard.
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.04 on Hydrologic 1.9 This standard does not purport to address the safety
Properties and Hydraulic Barriers. concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2011. Published January 2012. Originally of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and
approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 2006 as D6391–06. DOI:
10.1520/D6391-11.
health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
2
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of limitations prior to use. This test method does not purport to
this standard. address environmental protection problems, as well.

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 D6391 − 11
2. Referenced Documents 3.2.5 test diameter, n—the inside diameter (ID) of the
2.1 ASTM Standards: 3 casing.
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained 3.2.6 vertical conductivity, kv, n—the hydraulic conductivity
Fluids in (approximately) the vertical direction.
D1452 Practice for Soil Exploration and Sampling by Auger
Borings 4. Summary of Test Method
D1587 Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils for 4.1 The rate of flow of water into soil through the bottom of
Geotechnical Purposes a sealed and cased borehole is measured in one or two stages,
D2937 Test Method for Density of Soil in Place by the normally with a standpipe using a falling-head or constant-
Drive-Cylinder Method head procedure. The standpipe is refilled as necessary. A
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies schematic of the test apparatus is shown in Fig. 1 with the
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as dimensions to be recorded.
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
D5084 Test Methods for Measurement of Hydraulic Con- 4.2 Method A—Method A is used when the soil being tested
ductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible is treated as anisotropic. A falling-head test is conducted in two
Wall Permeameter stages with the bottom of the borehole flush with the bottom of
D5092 Practice for Design and Installation of Groundwater the casing in Stage 1 and extended below the bottom of the
Monitoring Wells casing as a right circular cylinder in Stage 2 (Fig. 1). The
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical borehole is extended for Stage 2 after Stage 1 is completed. A
Data limiting hydraulic conductivity is computed from the falling
head data in both stages. These limiting hydraulic conductivi-
3. Terminology ties are K1 and K2, respectively.
Stages 1 and 2 are continued until the limiting conductivity
3.1 Definitions: for each stage is relatively constant.
3.1.1 For common definitions of technical terms in this Methods to calculate actual vertical and horizontal hydraulic
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
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conductivities (kv and kh) from K1 and K2 are described in (5)

3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: and (6).
3.2.1 horizontal conductivity, kh, n—the hydraulic conduc- 4.3 Method B—Method B employs a falling head and is
tivity in (approximately) the horizontal direction. used when the soil being tested is treated as isotropic. A falling
3.2.2 hydraulic conductivity, (coeffıcient of permeability) k, head test is conducted in a borehole flush with the bottom of
n—the rate of discharge of water under laminar flow conditions the casing (Fig. 1). Hydraulic conductivity of the soil is
through a unit cross-sectional area of a porous medium under computed from the falling head data. The test is continued until
a unit hydraulic gradient and standard temperature conditions the hydraulic conductivity becomes essentially constant.
(20°C).
4.4 Method C—Method C employs a Mariotte tube to apply
3.2.2.1 Discussion—The term coeffıcient of permeability
a constant head and is also used when the soil being tested is
often is used instead of hydraulic conductivity, but hydraulic
treated as isotropic. A constant head test is conducted in a
conductivity is used exclusively in this test method. A more
borehole flush with the bottom of the casing. Hydraulic
complete discussion of the terminology associated with Dar-
conductivity of the soil is computed from the steady flow rate
cy’s law is given in the literature (4). It should be noted that
measured during the test. The same apparatus and test set up is
both natural soils and recompacted soils usually are not
used for Methods B and C, except the falling-head standpipe
isotropic with respect to hydraulic conductivity. Except for
used in Method B (Fig. 2a) is replaced by a constant-head
unusual materials, kh > kv.
Mariotte tube (Fig. 2b).
3.2.3 limiting horizontal conductivity, K2, n—the hydraulic
conductivity as determined in Stage 2 of this test method, 5. Significance and Use
assuming the tested medium to be isotropic. For ordinary soils,
both compacted and natural, this is the minimum possible 5.1 This test method provides a means to measure the
value for kh. hydraulic conductivity of isotropic materials and the maximum
vertical and minimum horizontal hydraulic conductivities of
3.2.4 limiting vertical conductivity, K1, n—the hydraulic anisotropic materials, especially in the low ranges associated
conductivity as determined in Stage 1 of this test method, with fine-grained clayey soils, 1×10–7 m/s to 1×10–11 m/s.
assuming the tested medium to be isotropic. For ordinary soils,
both compacted and natural, this is the maximum possible 5.2 This test method is useful for measuring liquid flow
value for kv. through soil hydraulic barriers, such as compacted clay barriers
used at waste containment facilities, for canal and reservoir
liners, for seepage blankets, and for amended soil liners, such
3
as those used for retention ponds or storage tanks. Due to the
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
boundary condition assumptions used in deriving the equations
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on for the limiting hydraulic conductivities, the thickness of the
the ASTM website. unit tested must be at least 600 mm. This requirement is

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FIG. 1 Schematic of Borehole Test Showing Borehole Flush with Base (Methods B and C, Stage 1 of Method A) and with Extension for
Stage 2 of Method A

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 D6391 − 11

FIG. 2 Falling Head Standpipe (Methods A and B) (a) and Mariotte Tube (Method C) (b) Used for the Flow Assembly

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 D6391 − 11
increased to 800 mm if the material being tested is underlain by 6.1.4 Reamer—A reamer (see Fig. 3) may be used to
a material that is far less permeable. complete the borehole extension for tests conducted with a
second stage. The base of the reamer shall have a diameter
5.3 The soil layer being tested must have sufficient cohesion
to stand open during excavation of the borehole. slightly less than the inside diameter of the casing and shall be
capable of reaming the bottom of the advanced borehole to a
5.4 This test method provides a means to measure infiltra- level plane that is perpendicular to the primary axis of the
tion rate into a moderately large volume of soil. Tests on large borehole. The bottom plate of the reamer shall have a diameter
volumes of soil can be more representative than tests on small about 1 mm less than the inside diameter of the casing. The
volumes of soil. Multiple installations properly spaced provide vertical side of the cutting plate should be serrated.
a greater volume and an indication of spatial variability. 6.1.5 Scarifier—A bent fork, wire brush, or similar device
5.5 The data obtained from this test method are most useful for roughening the surface of the sidewall, which is small
when the soil layer being tested has a uniform distribution of enough to fit within the casing and having a handle long
hydraulic conductivity and of pore space and when the upper enough to reach the bottom of Stage 2, is used to scarify the
and lower boundary conditions of the soil layer are well walls and base of the borehole extension for Stage 2.
defined. 6.2 Borehole Casing:
5.6 Changes in water temperature can introduce errors in the 6.2.1 Casing—The casing shall be watertight but may be of
flow measurements. Temperature changes cause fluctuations in any material or diameter. The minimum ID shall be 100 mm.
the water levels that are not related to flow. This problem is The wall thickness shall be adequate to prevent collapse under
most pronounced when a small diameter standpipe or Marriotte the lateral pressure of the overburden and swelling bentonite.
bottle–10 is used in soils having hydraulic conductivities of Schedule 40 PVC pipe is satisfactory. The bottom of the casing
5×10 m/s or less. shall be smooth and square. The casing shall have flush
5.7 The effects of temperature changes and other environ- connections for joints between the ground surface and the
mental perturbations are taken into account using a temperature bottom of the casing; external connections interfere with
effect gauge (TEG), which is an identical installation with a sealing the annulus and internal connections affect advancing
watertight seal at the bottom of the casing. the borehole for Stage 2. The top of the casing shall be
provided with a means of attaching the top assembly. When
5.8 If the soil being tested will later be subjected to threads are used, they must be flush. When a flange is used, the
increased overburden stress, then the hydraulic conductivities diameter shall be minimal so as not to interfere with sealing the
can be expected to decrease as the overburden stress increases. annulus. Any casing joints and joints between the top assembly
Laboratory hydraulic conductivity tests or these tests under and casing shall be provided with a means to ensure the joint
varying surface loads are recommended to study the influence is watertight.
of level of stress on the hydraulic properties of the soil (7).
6.2.2 Top Cap—The top assembly consists of a cap that
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is connects the casing to the standpipe as illustrated in Fig. 1. The
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the cap may be domed or slanted upwards to minimize air
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the entrapment and shall include a means to connect to the
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are standpipe and casing with a watertight seal. Rubber couplings
cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure with hose clamps have been found satisfactory. Provisions for
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 bleeding any entrapped air shall be made. For the TEG (only),
provides a means of evaluating some of those factors. the top assembly also may be provided with a watertight fitting
for a device to measure temperature.
6. Apparatus
6.2.3 Annular Sealant—Bentonite is normally used to seal
6.1 Boring/Reaming Tools: the annulus between the wall of the borehole and the wall of
6.1.1 Drilling Equipment—Equipment must be available to the casing. All sealants should be compatible with ambient
advance the borehole to the desired test level. This borehole geologic and geohydrologic conditions. Sealants shall not be
diameter must be at least 50 mm larger than the outside introduced to the interior of the casing.
diameter of the casing. For tests in compacted materials above 6.2.3.1 Directly Placed Sealant—The annulus shall be
the water table, and wherever else possible, the borehole shall sealed with powdered or granular, sodium bentonite furnished
be advanced by dry methods. Either hand or mechanical in sacks or buckets from a commercial source. The bentonite
methods are acceptable. shall be free of impurities that may adversely impact the
6.1.2 Flat Auger—A flat auger (see Fig. 3) may be used to sealing process. To reduce the potential for bridging, the
prepare the borehole. The auger should be capable of reaming diameter of granules should be less than one fifth the width of
the bottom of the borehole to a level plane perpendicular to the the annular space. The sealant shall extend to the ground
borehole axis. The flat auger shall have a diameter about 50 surface or to a minimum of 1 m above the bottom of the casing,
mm larger than the outside diameter of the casing. whichever is less.
6.1.3 Clay Spade—A clay spade may be used to prepare the 6.2.3.2 Grouted Sealant—The annular space may be grouted
borehole for casing installation. The spade can also be used to above the sealant. Any of the grouting methods specified in
create a level based in the bottom of the borehole. Practice D5092 may be used.
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NOTE 1—For the Flat Auger, Do = D + 50 mm where D is the inside diameter of the borehole casing. For the reamer, Do = D – 1 mm.
FIG. 3 Schematic of Apparatus Used as Flat Auger (Borehole Excavation) and Reamer (Borehole Extension in Stage 2 of Method A)

6.2.3.3 Sock—The sock protects the soil at the bottom of the standpipe. Nominal 13-mm components have been satisfactory
casing from disturbance when water is introduced and prevents for tests with a 100-mm diameter casing.
collapse of the borehole extension for Stage 2. A non-woven 6.3.2 Standpipe—The standpipe shown on Fig. 1 should be
geotextile, filled with pea gravel or other highly pervious only as tall as needed to apply a maximum head (measured at
material has been found satisfactory. The hydraulic conductiv- the bottom of the casing) equal to or less than the head
ity of all sock materials shall be at least ten times the allowable by hydraulic fracturing considerations; the hydraulic
anticipated hydraulic conductivity of the tested stratum. Wires head at the bottom of the casing should not exceed 1.5 times
or other suitable means for retrieving the sock should be the total overburden pressure at that level. The standpipe must
provided. be transparent and strong enough to withstand wind forces.
6.3 Pressure/Flow System: Clear Schedule 40 PVC has been found satisfactory. Inside
6.3.1 Flow Monitoring System—The flow monitoring sys- diameters of 10 to 20 mm have been satisfactory for tests
tem illustrated in Fig. 2 consists of a standpipe or Mariotte tube conducted with a 100-mm diameter casing. For 300-mm-
and scale composed of metal or plastic components. All diameter casing, standpipes with an inside diameter between
connections shall have a diameter of at least 75 % that of the 50 and 100 mm have been satisfactory. The diameter may need

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to be larger or smaller depending on the rate of infiltration in a TABLE 1 Ethanol Proportions
particular test. The diameter may be changed to provide Minimum Temperature, (°C) Proportion Water/Ethanol
acceptable reading accuracy depending on the rate of infiltra- –5 5:1
–10 3:1
tion into the borehole. Provisions shall be made to prevent –15 2.3:1
entry of precipitation or loss by evaporation from the standpipe –20 1.8:1
while ensuring the air pressure in the standpipe is in equilib- –25 1.5:1

rium with the atmosphere. One satisfactory method is to set a

90° elbow on the top of the standpipe, cover the outlet of the
elbow with aluminum foil, plastic sheet, or parafilm, and
puncture the covering with a small (approx. 1 mm) hole for air result from the use of antifreeze compounds. The user is
pressure equalization. responsible for obtaining any necessary regulatory approval for
6.3.3 Mariotte Tube—A Mariotte tube is used for constant the solution used. The user is advised that soil freezing and
head tests (Fig. 2b). The tube shall be large enough to permit thawing can alter the hydraulic conductivity. Tests shall not be
unimpeded flow of air during permeation. Clear acrylic tubes conducted on soil that is frozen or is undergoing freezing and
having an inside diameter of 10 mm have been satisfactory for thawing during the test.
tests conducted with a100-mm diameter casing. For 300-mm- 6.6.4 Vacuum Cleaner (Optional)—An industrial-type
diameter casing, standpipes with an inside diameter between vacuum cleaner can be used to clear cuttings, etc., from the
50 and 100 mm have been satisfactory. The diameter may be bottom of the borehole.
changed to provide acceptable reading accuracy depending on 6.6.5 Aluminum Foil—1 roll.
the rate of infiltration into the borehole. 6.6.6 Rubber Bands.
6.3.4 Scale—The standpipe or Mariotte tube shall be gradu- 6.6.7 Flashlight.
ated or a scale shall be affixed; either must have a resolution of
1 mm. If a scale is used, the base shall be set at a known 7. Test Site
reference point of the flow monitoring system that can be 7.1 Each individual test requires an area approximately 3 by
readily reestablished. 3 m. Tests shall not be located closer than 3-m center-to-center.
6.3.5 Watch—Readable to 1 s. A group of at least five tests is suggested for evaluation of a
6.3.6 Miscellaneous Hand Tools—Adjustable and pipe typical test pad for waste containment facilities. Larger areas
wrenches, flathead screwdriver, knife, strap wrenches (two) to may require more tests and the program should be designed on
fit casing, silicone grease (e.g., automotive fan belt lubricant), a sound statistical basis.
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polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape, refill hose, funnel to fit 7.2 The layer being tested must maintain its full thickness at
refill hose, 100-mL plastic cylinder flask. least 3 m horizontally in all directions from the center of the
6.4 Temperature System—A device for measuring tempera- test.
ture 60.5 °C with a range sufficient to cover the anticipated air 7.3 Stratification or the plane of compaction should be
and water temperatures during the test and long enough to essentially horizontal.
extend to the bottom of the TEG. 7.4 If a compacted fill is being tested, the test area shall be
6.5 Survey Equipment—Surveyor’s level and rod, and a 15 covered with clear or white plastic immediately after the final
to 30-m tape. lift is placed.
6.6 Miscellaneous: 7.5 Compacted fills shall be underlain by a soil layer no less
6.6.1 Plastic Sheeting—Clear or white plastic sheeting, permeable than intended for the fill or a permeable layer such
nominal thickness at least 0.1 mm. Provide one 3 by 3 m sheet as a geotextile, geocomposite drain, or sand layer. Such
per test, including the TEG. conditions shall be recorded, together with the phreatic surface,
6.6.2 Water Supply—Preferably water of the same quality as if any, within the fill. See Practice D1452 for determining the
that involved in the problem being examined but having a phreatic surface. Where no such bottom condition exists, the
turbidity of 5 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) or less. Only nature of the underlying soil and depth to the groundwater
potable water should be used if there is a possibility that the phreatic surface shall be furnished. The thickness of the tested
introduced water could enter the groundwater regime. All material near each test location shall be determined to 610 mm
water to be introduced into the test apparatus shall be allowed before-and-after survey or post-test borings.
to stand open at least 12 h prior to use for deairing. See 8.3.3 7.6 In natural deposits, the stratigraphic sequence shall be
for temperature requirements. determined by borings, or test pits, or both to at least 1 m below
6.6.3 Antifreeze—Where air temperatures below freezing the proposed bottom level for Stage 2 and the position of the
are anticipated, an antifreeze solution may be used as the phreatic surface in the tested stratum shall be determined.
permeating fluid in lieu of water. The temperature-kinematic Borings or test pits shall not be made within 3 m of the test
viscosity relation of the solution must be determined and used location before the test; any borings within 10 m of the test
in the appropriate equations of Section 9. Ethanol (ethyl location shall be grouted prior to testing. Any test pits within
alcohol) in potable form has been used in Table 1. Ethanol at this distance shall be backfilled prior to testing. Test pits shall
concentrations of 1:1 or stronger can cause structural changes not be made closer to the test location than half the test pit
in the soil and should not be used. Groundwater pollution may depth.

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8. Procedure borehole. Sufficient bentonite pellets to fill approximately 75
8.1 Set and Seal Casing—This important step must be done mm of the annular space shall be placed and tamped. Addi-
with care. tional bentonite layers shall be placed in the same manner until
8.1.1 Minimum Clearances—When the layer being tested the seal reaches at least 1 m above the bottom-of-casing level.
extends to the ground surface and is underlain by a layer Hydration water shall be added if the top of the seal rises above
having substantially different hydraulic conductivity, the cas- the water level in the annulus. Sealing above the 1 m level may
ing shall extend at least 200 mm below the ground surface and be by the same procedure or by grouting in accordance with
be no closer than 200 mm from the bottom of the stratum being Practice D5092. After the seal has hydrated a minimum of 12
tested, including the borehole extension for Stage 2. If the layer h, empty the casing, and advance the borehole to the bottom of
being tested does not extend to the ground surface, but is the casing. If the tested stratum is pervious, empty the casing
overlain by a relatively pervious material, the casing shall only to groundwater level to avoid disturbance of the tested
extend at least 200 mm below the top of the stratum being stratum from water flow into the casing. Set the sock, then
tested. If the overlying stratum is relatively impervious, the introduce and remove water as necessary to remove suspended
casing shall extend at least 500 mm below the top of the solids.
stratum being tested. 8.1.7 Surface Protection—After installing the casing, cover
8.1.2 Drill Borehole—Excavate the borehole in a direction the ground surface with clear or white plastic sheet. Use sand,
perpendicular to the stratification or plane of compaction, gravel, sandbags, or other weights to keep the plastic in place
which may or may not be perpendicular to the ground surface. during high winds.
The angle of inclination, if any, shall be measured and 8.1.8 Hydration—Allow the bentonite (and grout, if any) to
reported. The hole must be at least 50 mm larger in diameter hydrate a minimum of 12 h before applying head to the test.
than the outside diameter of the casing. Stop mechanical Place a cap or other protective material over the top of the
excavation at least 25 mm above the desired bottom-of-casing casing to prevent desiccation or entry of rainfall during the
level. Dry excavation is preferred to the use of drilling fluids. hydration period.
8.1.3 Finish Borehole—Finish the excavation with a hand 8.1.9 Temperature Effect Gauge—The temperature effect
tool to create a smooth and flat bottom. A reamer can be used gauge (TEG) is installed in the same manner as described
for this purpose. Ensure the borehole is free from cuttings and above.
particles larger than 10 mm. An industrial-type vacuum cleaner 8.2 Assemble Flow Monitoring System and Standpipe—
can be used to clean the borehole. Assemble the cap and, flow monitoring system. Ensure the
8.1.4 Insert Casing—Set the casing within and parallel to assembly is watertight.
the axis of the borehole, centered as much as possible, with a
minimum 25 mm annular space between the wall of the 8.3 Complete System Setup:
borehole and the outside of the casing. For threaded casings, 8.3.1 Check Embedment—Recheck the casing to ensure the
the top of the casing should be as close to ground surface as correct embedment has been maintained. Also, note and record
possible, but not less than 20 mm for internally threaded casing the presence or absence of water inside the casing; if present,
or 20 mm plus the length of the threaded section for externally record the depth.
threaded casing. Seat the casing firmly by hand. Measure the 8.3.2 Insert Sock—Place the sock to the bottom of the
depth from top-of-casing to bottom-of-hole (Zc) to the nearest casing. Tying the retrieval wires to a small float (half the casing
mm. diameter or less) aids in their recovery.
8.1.5 Seal Casing (Dry Holes)—In a dry hole, the annulus is 8.3.3 Fill Casing—Fill the casing slowly with water, but no
sealed with sodium bentonite placed in at least two layers. The higher than 25 mm below the base of any internal threads.
lowermost layer shall consist of hydrated bentonite paste Introduce water in a manner that does not erode soil at the
prepared with water and the bentonite used to seal the bottom of the casing. The water should be at similar tempera-
remainder of the annulus. The paste layer shall be tamped in ture as the soil in the tested zone, or groundwater if present
place. Thickness of the paste layer shall be at least 20 mm but above bottom-of-casing, to prevent air bubbles from degassing.
no more than 50 mm. The remainder of the annulus shall be 8.3.4 Add Flow Monitoring System—Place the top assembly
sealed with dry powdered or granular sodium bentonite placed and seal it onto the casing. If a threaded casing is used, prevent
in layers no more than 50 mm thick. Each layer shall be rotation of the casing with a strap wrench while tightening the
moistened with water after placement and then tamped with a top assembly. Attach the scale to the standpipe with clear
wooden dowel, or equivalent, smaller than the minimum wrapping tape or equivalent means, with the zero down.
annulus. Measure and record the distance from the bottom of the casing
NOTE 2—For deep installations, the bentonite seal shall extend a to the zero point on the scale (Ro) to the nearest mm. Measure
minimum of 1 m above the bottom of the casing. Sealing above 1 m to the and record inside diameter of standpipe (d) to nearest mm.
ground surface may be with the same procedure or by grouting in 8.3.5 Check System—Fill the remainder of the casing and
accordance with Practice D5092. flow monitoring system with water, making sure that no air
8.1.6 Seal Casing (Wet Holes)—The following procedure bubbles are trapped in the cap or flow control system. The
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shall be used where there is seepage of groundwater into the maximum water level above ground surface shall not exceed
borehole at or above test level. The casing shall be pushed (not the height equal to the depth of embedment of the casing.
driven) approximately 25 mm into the soil at the bottom of the Check all joints carefully for water leaks by wiping the joints

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dry and watching for the formation of water drops. If leaks are 8.4.1 Refills—One standpipe full of water may not be
observed, reassemble the apparatus until all leaks are elimi- adequate to reach equilibrium. When the water level in the
nated. standpipe becomes low, or approaches the elevation of the
8.4 Begin Test—Record the date and time (to 1 s) and the outlet in the Mariotte tube in Method C, record the water level
scale reading (R) corresponding to the bottom of the meniscus and refill the standpipe using the same method employed for
of the water in the standpipe. Take additional readings when the initial filling. Record the new water level and its associated
the meniscus has moved at least 10 times the smallest division time, TEG reading, and TEG temperature and note as “refill.”
on the scale. In soils of low hydraulic conductivity, daily or Continue making readings as for the first filling. When the
twice-daily readings may be adequate after two to three days. person conducting the test will be away for some length of
At each reading of the test, record the scale reading and bottom time, such as overnight, check the drop rate against the
water temperature of the TEG. Typical forms for recording test expected time to determine whether or not refilling is neces-
data are given in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 6, and If Method C is sary.
being used, ensure that an air bubble(s) is emanating from the 8.4.2 Criteria for Termination—Each stage may be termi-
outlet of the Mariotte tube and is emitted regulary into the nated when a plot of logK1, logK2, or logK versus time
annulus of the Mariotte tube. If no bubbles are present, wait exhibits no temporal trend and fluctuates about a stable value
until a bubble emanates before initiating water level readings. (no more than 20 % the mean) for at least the time spans listed
If bubbles form slowly or erratically, use a Mariotte tube in Table 2.
having smaller diameter. NOTE 3—If the test is solely to verify that the actual vertical hydraulic

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FIG. 4 Example Data/Computation Form for Method A

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FIG. 5 Example Data/Computation Form for Method B

conductivity, kv , is less than some specified value and the limiting vertical 6.1.5. Prepare the bottom as described in 8.1.3. Measure and
conductivity, K1, is less than that value, Stage 2 in Method A may be record depth (L) and diameter (D) of borehole extension to the
omitted. In such cases, Stage 1 may be terminated if K1 remains below the
specified value for a period at least as long as that given in Table 2
nearest mm.
provided there is no upward trend in the hydraulic conductivity measure- 8.5.4 Replace the Sock—Place the sock to the bottom of the
ments. borehole. Alternatively, but only where an inclusion of high-
8.5 Conduct Stage 2 (Method A only): conductivity material in the tested stratum is of no
8.5.1 Empty the Casing—Remove the top assembly with its consequence, the hole may be filled to 80 mm above the casing
attached equipment. Siphon, vacuum, or bail, or a combination bottom with pea gravel.
thereof, all water from within the casing for tests where the 8.5.5 Reassemble the System—Refill the casing with water
casing is set in a dry hole. Otherwise, siphon, vacuum. or bail as described in 8.3.3, reattach and seal the top assembly with
to the groundwater level of the stratum being tested. Remove its equipment, and refill the standpipe. Concurrently, empty
the sock. and refill the TEG with water having the same temperature
8.5.2 Advance the Borehole—Extend an open borehole hav- (within 1 °C) as that used in the test.
ing the same diameter as the inside of the casing to a depth 8.5.6 Perform Stage 2—Conduct Stage 2 using the same
below bottom-of-casing not less than 1 test diameters and not procedure as described in 8.4. The termination criteria are the
more than 2 test diameters. same. See Fig. 4 for a typical form for recording the data.
8.5.3 Ream the Borehole—Ream the borehole to the desired 8.6 Demobilization—Remove and store the top assembly
depth and diameter using the reamer to minimize sidewall with its attached systems. For tests in compacted fills, empty
smear. Roughen the inside walls using the scarifier discussed in the casing, remove sock and casing, then backfill the resulting
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FIG. 6 Example Data/Computation Form for Method C

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Limiting Conductivity K1 or K2 (m/sec)

>10–8
TABLE 2 Minimum Stable Time Spans
Stable Time Span, h
12
G4 5
L
D
1 ΠSD 11
L
D
2
(6)

G ΠS D
10–8 – 10–9
F
24 2
4b 2 L 4b 2 L
10–9 – 10–10 48 1 1 11 1
10–10 – 10–11 72 D D D D
G5 5 (7)
F 4b 2
D
2
L
D
1 G ΠS D 11
4b 2
D
2
L
D
2

hole with layers of tamped and wetted bentonite pellets or as F 5 1 2 0.5623 e 21.566 D
L
(8)
directed. Casings for tests in natural deposits can be left as
piezometers or plugged and abandoned like monitoring wells, where:
as directed. L = length of Stage 2 extension below bottom of casing
(cm),
9. Calculation D = ID of Stage 2 extension (casing ID), and
9.1 Method A—Calculate K1 and K2 using Eq 1-11. Alter- b2 = distance from center of Stage 2 extension to top of
nate equations are given in Ref. (6). underlying stratum or groundwater (cm).
9.1.1 Stage 1—Compute K1 using Eq 1 and 2 for each The other terms are as previously defined.
sequential pair of water levels during Stage 1 and graph K1 vs. 9.2 Calculate the time-weighted average <K1>' from the K1
time as shown in Fig. 7 using data recorded in a data sheet data in Stage 1 during the period when K1 appears temporally
simlar to example shown in Fig. 4. invariant (no apparent temporal trend up or down):

K1 5 RT G1
ln
Z1
Z2 S D (1)
n

(K
i51
1,i ~ t 2 2 t 1! i
~ t 2 2 t 1! ,K 1 . 5 n (9)

where: ( ~ t 2 2 t 1! i
i51

G1 5 S DF S DG
πd 2
11D 1
11a
D1
4b 1
(2)
where:
i = designates the ith of n time time increments in the
RT = 2.2902(0.9842T)/T0.1702 and T is temperature in °C, temporally invariant range.
d = ID of standpipe (cm), 9.3 Calculate the time-weighted average <K2>' from the K2
D1 = effective diameter of Stage 1 (cm), equals ID of casing data in Stage 2 during the period when K2 appears temporally
under dry hole conditions when no inward seepage was invariant (no apparent temporal trend up or down):
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noted when setting casing, otherwise equals outside n

diameter of casing: (K
i51
2,i ~ t 2 2 t 1! i
a = +1 for impermeable base at b1, ,K2. 5 n (10)
= 0 for infinite (+20D1) depth of tested material, ( ~t 2 2 t 1! i
= –1 for permeable base at b1, and i51

b1 = thickness of tested layer between bottom of casing and 9.4 Method B

top of underlying stratum (cm). 9.4.1 Calculation Procedure 1—Use Eq 1 and 2 to compute
Z1 = Zc + Ro + R at time t1, K1* using data recorded in a data sheet simlar to example
Z2 = Zc + Ro + R – c at time t2, shown in Fig. 5. In this case, K1* equals the isotropic hydraulic
c = change in TEG scale reading between times t1 and t2 . conductivity, K.
An increase in the height of water in the TEG standpipe 9.4.2 Calculation Procedure 2
is positive, 9.4.2.1 Graph the water level, Z, as a function of time, as
t1 = time at beginning of increment(s), and shown in Fig. 8 for a given fill of the standpipe.
t2 = time at end of increment(s). 9.4.2.2 Fit Eq 11 to the Z-t data in the graph like that shown
9.1.2 Stage 2—Compute K2 using Eq 3-8 for each sequen- in Fig. 8.
tial pair of water levels during Stage 2 and graph K2 vs. time Z t 5 Z*1Z o exp~ 2at! (11)
as shown in Fig. 7 using data recorded in a data sheet simlar to
example shown in Fig. 4. by adjusting Z*, Zo, and a until the differences between the
measured data (Zi, ti) and the fit of Eq 11 are minimized, i.e.

K2 5 RT G2
ln
Z1
Z2S D (3) min H 1 n
( ~ Z 2 Z ti! 2 J (12)
~ t 2 2 t 1! n i51 i

G2 5 S Dd2
16FL
G3 (4)
subject to the unbiased constraint
n

G 3 5 2lnG4 1alnG5 (5) ( ~Z 2 Z ! 5 0

i51
i ti (13)

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FIG. 7 Example of K1 (a) and K2 (b) vs. Elapsed Time for Stages 1 and 2 from Method A
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FIG. 8 Example of Z vs. Time (a) and K vs. Trial Number (b) for Falling-Head Procedure in Method B

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 D6391 − 11
where: where:
Zi = Ro + R at the ith reading at time ti, ds = the inside diameter of the standpipe,
Zti = Zt in Eq 11 at time ti, dm = the outside diameter of the Mariotte tube,
Z* = constant related to the total head, Hb = Zc + Ro,
Zo = constant related to the initial total head, and Z1 = R at time t1, and
a = constant related to the hydraulic conductivity. Z2 = R at time t2.
NOTE 4—Fitting of Eq 11 generally is accomplished using an optimi-
zation tool in spreadsheet software. 9.5.2 Graph hydraulic conductivity vs. time as illustrated in
Fig. 9.
9.4.2.3 Compute the hydraulic conductivity for a given fill
of the standpipe as (8) . 9.5.3 Compute the time-weighted hydraulic conductivity,
<K>, using Eq 16 from the final four data points in the
πd 2 temporally invariant period shown in Fig. 9:
K 5 R Ta (14)
11D
4
K i~ t 2 2 t 1! i
where the variables RT, d, and D were defined previously. ,K. 5 (
i51
4 (16)
9.4.2.4 Repeat the computations in 9.4.2.1 and 9.4.2.2 for ( ~t
i51
2 2 t 1! i
each fill of the standpipe.
9.4.2.5 Graph K vs. number of trials as shown in Fig. 8. 10. Report
9.4.2.6 Compute the arithmetic mean of the final three
hydraulic conductivities in Fig. 8 provided that these hydraulic 10.1 Report the following information:
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conductivities exhibit no temporal trend and differ by no more 10.1.1 A data sheet indicating the method (A, B, or C) that
than 25 %. was used and the data that were collected,
9.5 Method C—Compute the hydraulic conductivity using 10.1.2 A graph of K1 and K2 (Method A) or <K> (Methods
the following equation (7) using data recorded in a data sheet B and C) versus time,
similar to example shown in Fig. 6. 10.1.3 Average values <K1> and <K2> (Method A) or <K>
9.5.1 Calculate K for each time increment using Eq 15. (Methods B and C),
π ~ d 2s 2 d m2 !~ Z 1 2 Z 2 ! 10.1.4 Thickness of layer tested,
K 5 RT (15)
2.75D H b ~ t 2 2 t 1 ! 10.1.5 Description of material beneath the layer tested.

FIG. 9 Example of K vs. Time for Constant-Head Procedure in Method C

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10.2 Additional optional information that can be presented too costly at this time to produce multiple specimens, which
in the report includes the following: have uniform physical properties. Any variation observed in
10.2.1 Total and dry unit weight of the layer tested. the data is just as likely to be due to specimen variation as to
10.2.2 Initial water content of the layer tested. operator or other testing variations. Subcommittee D18.04
10.2.3 Initial degree of saturation. welcomes proposals that would allow for development of a
10.2.4 Water contents of samples taken after termination of valid precision statement.
test, with locations and depths referenced to the test location.
10.2.5 Classification data on the layer tested. 11.2 Bias—There is no accepted reference value for this test
10.2.6 Laboratory tests for hydraulic conductivity on the method; therefore, bias cannot be determined.
layer tested.
12. Keywords
11. Precision and Bias
12.1 horizontal hydraulic conductivity; in-place hydraulic
11.1 Precision—Due to the nature of the soil or rock activity; vertical hydraulic conductivity
materials tested by this test method, it is either not feasible or

References

(1) U.S Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Earth (5) Trautwein, S. and Boutwell, G., “In-Situ Hydraulic Conductivity Tests
Manual, Part 2, Third Edition, 1990. for Compacted Soil Liners and Caps,” Hydraulic Conductivity and
(2) Bouwer, H., “Rapid Field Measurement of Air Entry Value and Waste Contaminant Transport in Soils, ASTM STP 1142, ASTM
Hydraulic Conductivity of Soil as Significant Parameters in Flow International, 1994, p. 184–223.
System Analysis,” Water Resources Research, Vol 2, No. 4, 1966, pp. (6) Chapuis, R., “Shape Factors for Permeability Tests in Borehole and
729–738. Piezometers,” Groundwater, Vol. 27, No. 5, 1989.
(3) Reynolds, D. and Elrick, D. E., “A Method for Simultaneous In-Situ (7) Trast, J. and Benson, C., “Estimating Field Hydraulic Conductivity of
Measurement in the Vadose Zone of Field-Saturated Hydraulic Compacted Clay,” Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, Vol. 121,
Conductivity, Sorptivity and the Conductivity-Pressure Head No. 10, 1995, pp. 736-740.
Relationship,” Groundwater Monitoring Review, Vol 6, No. 4, 1986,
(8) Chaisson, P., “Methods of Interpretation of Borehole Falling-Head
pp. 84.
Tests Performed in Compacted Clay Liners,” Canadian Geotechnical
(4) Bouwer, H., “Intake Rate: Cylinder Infiltrometer,” Methods of Soil
Journal, Vol. 42, 2005, pp. 79-90.
Analysis, Part 1 Physical and Mineralogical Methods, Agronomy
(9) Hvorslev, M. ( 1951), Time Lag and Soil Permeability In Ground-

--`,`,,,`,`,``,,``,`,`,``````,,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Monograph No. 9, American Society of Agronomy, Madison, WI,
1986, pp. 825–844. Water Observations, US Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg.

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