Permeability (hydraulic conductivity) can be determined by undertaking in-situ tests in boreholes or standpipe piezometers. The test method involves variable head (rising or falling) or constant head procedures and requires knowledge of the groundwater level. The type of test undertaken depends on the soil type. Typically a variable head test would be carried out in relatively permeable soils, and a constant head test in less permeable material.
When a permeability test takes place in a borehole, the water can flow either directly into (or out of) the soil or a perforated pipe can be installed if required. The pipe may be needed to maintain the stability of the borehole, and the water level can be measured via the pipe.
The test measures the permeability (k) of the soil and because it is carried out in-situ provides a more reliable result than can be determined in the laboratory. Implementation of the test and interpretation of the results requires experience of the various test techniques and knowledge of the site ground conditions.
On some sites there may be a considerable local variation in permeability, for example due to horizontal layers of soils with differing permeability or fissures. In this situation larger scale pumping tests can be carried out, where water levels are measured in an array of boreholes around a central borehole.