Determination of aquifer properties using a variable pumping rate and heterogeneous lithological approach: a case study of jujuti village, bardhaman

Abstract

Experimental solutions for constant-rate pumping tests are widely used to infer aquifer properties. This thesis explores the simulation and analysis of variable-rate pumping tests to better characterize aquifer properties under heterogeneous lithological conditions. This thesis implements a methodology that approximates the time-varying pumping record as a series of segments with linearly varying pumping rates. This approach is validated using an analytical solution for a varying pumping rate. Furthermore, our methodology is applied to analyze synthetic test data and compare the results with those obtained from the experimental test, which represents rate variations as a series of constant-rate test. To achieve these goals, the study quantifies the hydraulic properties of the aquifer, including hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, storativity, and porosity. These properties are determined through a combination of field measurements and laboratory analyses. A notable finding from the litholog data is the transmissivity value of 2430.96 m²/day, which closely aligns with the transmissivity observed in Well OBS 1, where the flow rate ranges from 60 to 78 m³/hr, resulting in a transmissivity value of 2634 m²/day. This discrepancy leads to the application of a correction factor of 1.084 (2634/2431). This case study focuses on Jujuti Village in Bardhaman, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the aquifer's behavior under variable pumping conditions and heterogeneous lithology.