Hydraulically controlled discrete sampling from open boreholes
Groundwater sampling from open boreholes in fractured-rock aquifers is particularly challenging because of mixing and dilution of fluid within the borehole from multiple fractures. This note presents an alternative to traditional sampling in open boreholes with packer assemblies. The alternative system called ZONFLO (zonal flow) is based on hydraulic control of borehole flow conditions. Fluid from discrete fractures zones are hydraulically isolated allowing for the collection of representative samples. In rough-faced open boreholes and formations with less competent rock, hydraulic containment may offer an attractive alternative to physical containment with packers. Preliminary test results indicate a discrete zone can be effectively hydraulically isolated from other zones within a borehole for the purpose of groundwater sampling using this new method.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2013 |
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Title | Hydraulically controlled discrete sampling from open boreholes |
DOI | 10.1111/gwat.12120 |
Authors | Philip T. Harte |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Groundwater |
Index ID | 70159475 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | NH/VT office of New England Water Science Center |