Hydraulic Conductivity Estimation: Comparison of Empirical Formulas Based on New Laboratory Experiments

Abstract

Hydraulic conductivity (K) is one of the most important characteristics of soils in terms of groundwater movement and the formation of aquifers. Generally, it indicates the ease of infiltration and penetration of water in the soil. It depends on various factors, including fluid viscosity, pore size, grain size, porosity ratio, mineral grain roughness, and soil saturation level. Each of the empirical formulas used to calculate K includes one or more of the influencing parameters. In this study, pumping tests from an aquifer were performed by using a hydrology apparatus. Laboratory experiments were conducted on six types of soil with different grain sizes, ranging from fine sand to coarse sand, to obtain K. The experimental-based K values were compared with that of empirical formulas. The results demonstrate that Breyer and Hazen (modified) formulas adequately fit the laboratory values. The novelty of the present study is the comparison of the experimental formulas in completely similar conditions of the same sample, such as porosity, viscosity, and grain size, using the pumping test in a laboratory method, and the results show that the Hazen and the Breyer formulas provide the best results. The findings of this work will help in better development of groundwater resources and aquifer studies.