Designation: D 5920 – 96 (Reapproved 2005)

Standard Test Method (Analytical Procedure) for

Tests of Anisotropic Unconfined Aquifers by Neuman
Method1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 5920; 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 (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope D 4105 Test Method (Analytical Procedure) for Determin-

1.1 This test method covers an analytical procedure for ing Transmissivity and Storage Coefficient of Nonleaky
determining the transmissivity, storage coefficient, specific Confined Aquifers by the Modified Theis Nonequilibrium
yield, and horizontal-to-vertical hydraulic conductivity ratio of Method
an unconfined aquifer. It is used to analyze the drawdown of D 4106 Test Method (Analytical Procedure) for Determin-
water levels in piezometers and partially or fully penetrating ing Transmissivity and Storage Coefficient of Nonleaky
observation wells during pumping from a control well at a Confined Aquifers by the Theis Nonequilibrium Method
constant rate. 3. Terminology
1.2 The analytical procedure given in this test method is
used in conjunction with Guide D 4043 and Test Method 3.1 Definitions:
D 4050. 3.1.1 aquifer, confined—an aquifer bounded above and
1.3 The valid use of the Neuman method is limited to below by confining beds and in which the static head is above
determination of transmissivities for aquifers in hydrogeologic the top of the aquifer.
settings with reasonable correspondence to the assumptions of 3.1.2 aquifer, unconfined—an aquifer that has a water table.
the theory. 3.1.3 control well—a well by which the head and flow in the
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as aquifer is changed by pumping, injecting, or imposing a
standard. constant change of head.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3.1.4 drawdown—the vertical distance the static head is
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the lowered due to removal of water.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 3.1.5 head, static—the height above a standard datum the
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- surface of a column of water can be supported by the static
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. pressure at a point.
3.1.6 hydraulic conductivity— field aquifer test, the volume
2. Referenced Documents of water at the existing kinematic viscosity that will move in a
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 unit time under a unit hydraulic gradient through a unit area
D 653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained measured at right angles to the direction of flow.
Fluids 3.1.7 observation well—a well open to all or part of an
D 4043 Guide for Selection of Aquifer-Test Method in aquifer.
Determining Hydraulic Properties by Well Techniques 3.1.8 piezometer—a device used to measure static head at a
D 4050 Test Method (Field Procedure) for Withdrawal and point in the subsurface.
Injection Well Tests for Determining Hydraulic Properties 3.1.9 storage coeffıcient—the volume of water an aquifer
of Aquifer Systems releases from or takes into storage per unit surface area of the
aquifer per unit change in head.
3.1.10 transmissivity—the volume of water of the prevail-
ing kinematic viscosity that will move in unit time under a unit
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and hydraulic gradient through a unit width of the aquifer.
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Ground Water and
Vadose Zone Investigations. 3.1.11 For definitions of other terms used in this test
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2005. Published February 2005. originally method, see Terminology D 653.
approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 1996 as D 5920–96.
2
3.2 Symbols:Symbols and Dimensions:
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
3.2.1 b [L]—initial saturated thickness of the aquifer.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on 3.2.2 d [L]—vertical distance between top of screen in
the ASTM website. pumping well and initial position of the water table.

Copyright. © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbour Dr. P.O. box C-700 West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428-2959, United States

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 D 5920 – 96 (2005)
3.2.3 dD [nd]—dimensionless d, equal to d/b. 3.2.24 (t/r2)e [T]—t/r2 corresponding to the intersection of a
3.2.4 J0(x)—zero-order Bessel function of the first kind. straight line through the early data with s = 0 on semilogarith-
3.2.5 Kr [LT−1]—hydraulic conductivity in the plane of the mic paper [TL−2].
aquifer, radially from the control well. 3.2.25 (t/r2)l [T]—t/r2 corresponding to the intersection of a
3.2.6 KZ [LT−1]—hydraulic conductivity normal to the straight line through the late data with s = 0 on semilogarith-
plane of the aquifer. mic paper.
3.2.6.1 Discussion—The use of the symbol K for the hy- 3.2.26 T [L2T−1]—transmissivity, Krb.
draulic conductivity is the predominant usage in ground water 3.2.27 z [L]—vertical distance above the bottom of the
literature by hydrogeologists, whereas, the symbol k is com- aquifer.
monly used for this term in soil and rock mechanics and soil 3.2.28 z1 [L]—vertical distance of the bottom of the obser-
science. vation well screen above the bottom of the aquifer.
3.2.7 l [L]—vertical distance between bottom of screen in 3.2.29 z2 [L]—vertical distance of the top of the observation
control well and initial position of water table. well screen above the bottom of the aquifer.
3.2.8 lD [nd]—dimensionless l, equal to l/b. 3.2.30 zD [nd]—dimensionless elevation, equal to z/b.
3.2.9 Q [L3T −1]—discharge rate. 3.2.31 z1D [nd]—dimensionless elevation of base of screen,
3.2.10 r [L]—radial distance from control well. equal to z1/b.
3.2.11 s [L]—drawdown. 3.2.32 z2D [nd]—dimensionless elevation of top of screen,
3.2.12 sc [L]—corrected drawdown. equal to z2/b.
3.2.13 sD [nd]—dimensionless drawdown, equal to 4pTs/Q. 3.2.33 a—degree of anisotropy, equal to Kz/Kr.
3.2.14 swt [L]—drawdown of the water table. 3.2.34 b [nd]—dimensionless parametera r2/b2.
3.2.15 S [nd]—storage coefficient, equal to Ssb. 3.2.35 Dse [L]—the difference in drawdown over one log
3.2.16 Ss [L−1]—specific storage. cycle of time along a straight line through early data on
3.2.17 Sy [nd]—specific yield. semilogarithmic paper.
3.2.18 t [T]—time since pumping started. 3.2.36 Dsl [L]—the difference in drawdown over one log
3.2.19 tr [T]—time since recovery started. cycle of time along a straight line through late data on
3.2.20 ts [nd]—dimensionless time with respect to Ss, equal semilogarithmic paper.
to Tt/Sr2. 3.2.37 s [nd]—dimensionless parameter S/Sy.
3.2.21 ty [nd]—dimensionless time with respect to Sy, equal
to Tt/Syr2. 4. Summary of Test Method
3.2.22 tb [T]—time, t, corresponding to intersection of a 4.1 Procedure—This test method describes a procedure for
horizontal line through the intermediate data with an inclined analyzing data collected during a withdrawal well test. This
line through late data on semilogarithmic paper. test method should have been selected using Guide D 4043 on
3.2.23 tyb [nd]—dimensionless time, ty, corresponding to the basis of the hydrologic characteristics of the site. The field
the intersection of a horizontal line through intermediate data test (Test Method D 4050) requires pumping a control well that
with an inclined line through late data in Fig. 1. is open to all or part of an unconfined aquifer at a constant rate

FIG. 1 Aquifer-Test Analysis, Example Two

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 D 5920 – 96 (2005)
for a specified period and observing the drawdown in piezom- 4.2.2 In the case in which the control well and observation
eters or observation wells that either partly or fully penetrate well fully penetrate the aquifer, the equations reduce to
the aquifer. This test method may also be used to analyze an Neuman’s (1) Eqs 2 and 3 as follows:
injection test with the appropriate change in sign. The rate of
$1 – exp [–t sb~y2 – g20!#% tanh ~g0!
drawdown of water levels in the aquifer is a function of the u0~y! 5 (8)
$y 2 1 ~1 1 s! g20 – [~y2 – g20! 2 /s]%g0
location and depths of screened open intervals of the control
well, observation wells, and piezometers. The drawdown may and:
be analyzed to determine the transmissivity, storage coefficient, $1 – exp [–tsb~y2 1 g2n!#% tan ~g n!
specific yield, and ratio of vertical to horizontal hydraulic un ~ y ! 5 (9)
$y2 – ~1 1 s! g2n – ~y2 1 g2n!2/s%gn
conductivity of the aquifer. The accuracy with which any
property can be determined depends on the location and length
5. Significance and Use
of the well screen in observation wells and piezometers. Two
methods of analysis, a type curve method and a semilogarith- 5.1 Assumptions:
mic method, are described. 5.1.1 The control well discharges at a constant rate, Q.
4.2 Solution—The solution given by Neuman (1)3 can be 5.1.2 The control well, observation wells, and piezometers
expressed as: are of infinitesimal diameter.
Q ` 5.1.3 The unconfined aquifer is homogeneous and really
s~r, z, t! 5 4pT * `
0 4yJ0~yb1/2!@u0~y! 1 ( un ~y!#dy
n51
(1) extensive.
5.1.4 Discharge from the control well is derived initially
where, for piezometers, Neuman’s (1) Eqs 27 and 28 are as
from elastic storage in the aquifer, and later from gravity
follows:
drainage from the water table.
$1 – exp $—tsb~y 2 – g20!#% cosh ~g0zD! 5.1.5 The geometry of the aquifer, control well, observation
u0~y! 5 (2)
$y 1 ~1 1 s! g20 – ~y2 – g20!2/s% cosh ~g0!
2
wells, and piezometers is shown in Fig. 2. The geometry of the
sinh [g0~1– dD!# – sinh [g0~1 – lD!# test wells should be adjusted depending on the parameters of
· interest.
~lD – dD! sinh ~g0!
5.2 Implications of Assumptions:
and:
5.2.1 Use of the Neuman (1) method assumes the control
$1 – exp [–tsb~y2 1 g2n!#% cos ~gnzD! well is of infinitesimal diameter. The storage in the control well
un ~ y ! 5 (3)
$y2 – ~1 1 s!g2n – ~y 2 1 g2n!2/s% g n may adversely affect drawdown measurements obtained in the
sin [gn~1 – dD!# – sin [gn~1 – lD!# early part of the test. See 5.2.2 of Test Method D 4106 for
· assistance in determining the duration of the effects of well-
~lD – dD! sin ~g n!
bore storage on drawdown.
and the terms g0 and gnare the roots of the following
equations: 5.2.2 If drawdown is large compared with the initial satu-
rated thickness of the aquifer, the late-time drawdown may
sg0 sinh ~g 0! – ~y2 – g20! cosh ~g0! 5 0 (4) need to be adjusted for the effect of the reduction in saturated
g20 ,y 2 thickness. Section 5.2.3 of Test Method D 4106 provides
guidance in correcting for the reduction in saturated thickness.
sg n sin ~gn! 1 ~y2 1 g2n! cos ~gn! 5 0 (5)
According to Neuman (1) such adjustments should be made
only for late-time values.
~2n – 1!~p/2! , g n , np n $ 1
4.2.1 The drawdown in an observation well is the average
over the screened interval, of which u0(y) and un( y) are
described by Neuman’s (1) Eqs 29 and 30:
u0~y! 5
$1 – exp [–tsb~y 2 – g20!#% [sinh ~g0z2D! – sinh ~g0z1D!#
$sinh [g0~1 – dD!# – sinh [g0~1 – lD!#%
$y2 1 ~1 1 s! g20 – ~y2 – g20! 2/s% cosh ~g0! ·
~z2D – z1D!g0~l D – dD! sinh ~g0! (6)

un ~ y ! 5
$1 – exp [–t sb~y2 1 g2n!#% [sin ~gnz2D! – sin ~gnz1D!#
$ sin [gn~1 – dD!#– sin [gn~1 – lD!#%
$y 2 – ~1 1 s!g2n – ~y2 1 g2n! 2/s% cos ~gn! ·
~z 2D – z1D!gn ~lD – dD! sin ~gn! (7)

3
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of FIG. 2 Cross Section Through a Discharging Well Screened in
the text. Part of an Unconfined Aquifer

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 D 5920 – 96 (2005)
6. Apparatus 7.2 Analysis—Analyze the field test data by plotting the
6.1 Analysis—Analysis of data from the field procedure (see data and recording parameters as specified in Section 8.
Test Method D 4050) by this test method requires that the
control well and observation wells meet the requirements 8. Calculation and Interpretation of Results
specified in the following subsections. 8.1 Methods—The drawdown data collected during the
6.2 Construction of Control Well—Install the control well in aquifer test may be analyzed by either the type-curve method
the aquifer, and equip with a pump capable of discharging or the semilogarithmic method. Any consistent set of units may
water from the well at a constant rate for the duration of the be used.
test. 8.1.1 Type-Curve Method—Plot drawdown, s, on the verti-
6.3 Construction of Observation Wells— Construct one or cal axis and time divided by the square of the radius to the well
more observation wells or piezometers at a distance from the or piezometer, t/r 2, on the horizontal axis using log-log paper.
control well. For this test method, observation wells may be Group data for all wells or piezometers that have screened
open through all or part of the thickness of the aquifer. intervals the same elevation above the base of the aquifer, zD
6.4 Location of Observation Wells— Wells may be located (for piezometers), or z1D and z 2D(for observation wells).
at any distance from the control well within the area of 8.1.1.1 Prepare a family of type curves for different values
influence of pumping. of b. For tests in which both the control well and the
observation wells fully penetrate the aquifer, the values in
7. Procedure Table 1 and Table 2 may be used to prepare the type curves, as
7.1 Procedure—The procedure consists of conducting the shown in Fig. 3. For piezometers, or tests in which the control
field procedure for withdrawal well tests (see Test Method well or observation wells do not effectively penetrate the full
D 4050), and analyzing the field data as addressed in this test thickness of the aquifer, the values of sD corresponding to
method. values of ts and ty for a range of values of b must be computed

TABLE 1 Values of SD for the Construction of Type A Curves for Fully Penetrating Wells (1)A
ta b = 0.001 b = 0.004 b = 0.01 b = 0.03 b = 0.06 b = 0.1 b = 0.2 b = 0.4 b = 0.6
1 3 10−1 2.48 3 10−2 2.43 3 10−2 2.41 3 10−2 2.35 3 10−2 2.30 3 10−2 2.24 3 10−2 2.14 3 10−2 1.99 3 10−2 1.88 3 10−2
2 3 10−1 1.45 3 10−1 1.42 3 10−1 1.40 3 10−1 1.36 3 10−1 1.31 3 10−1 1.27 3 10−1 1.19 3 10−1 1.08 3 10−1 9.88 3 10−2
3.5 3 10−1 3.58 3 10−1 3.52 3 10−1 3.45 3 10−1 3.31 3 10−1 3.18 3 10−1 3.04 3 10−1 2.79 3 10−1 2.44 3 10−1 2.17 3 10−1
6 3 10−1 6.62 3 10−1 6.48 3 10−1 6.33 3 10−1 6.01 3 10−1 5.70 3 10−1 5.40 3 10−1 4.83 3 10−1 4.03 3 10−1 3.43 3 10−1
1 3 100 1.02 3 100 9.92 3 10−1 9.63 3 10−1 9.05 3 10−1 8.49 3 10−1 7.92 3 10−1 6.88 3 10−1 5.42 3 10−1 4.38 3 10−1
2 3 100 1.57 3 100 1.52 3 100 1.46 3 100 1.35 3 100 1.23 3 100 1.12 3 100 9.18 3 10−1 6.59 3 10−1 4.97 3 10−1
3.5 3 100 2.05 3 100 1.97 3 100 1.88 3 100 1.70 3 100 1.51 3 100 1.34 3 100 1.03 3 100 6.90 3 10−1 5.07 3 10−1
6 3 100 2.52 3 100 2.41 3 100 2.27 3 100 1.99 3 100 1.73 3 100 1.47 3 100 1.07 3 100 6.96 3 10−1 ...
1 3 101 2.97 3 100 2.80 3 100 2.61 3 100 2.22 3 100 1.85 3 100 1.53 3 100 1.08 3 100 ... ...
2 3 101 3.56 3 100 3.30 3 100 3.00 3 100 2.41 3 100 1.92 3 100 1.55 3 100 ... ... ...
3.5 3 101 4.01 3 100 3.65 3 100 3.23 3 100 2.48 3 100 1.93 3 100 ... ... ... ...
6 3 101 4.42 3 100 3.93 3 100 3.37 3 100 2.49 3 100 1.94 3 100 ... ... ... ...
1 3 102 4.77 3 100 4.12 3 100 3.43 3 100 2.50 3 100 ... ... ... ... ...
2 3 102 5.16 3 100 4.26 3 100 3.45 3 100 ... ... ... ... ... ...
3.5 3 102 5.40 3 100 4.29 3 100 3.46 3 100 ... ... ... ... ... ...
6 3 102 5.54 3 100 4.30 3 100 ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
1 3 103 5.59 3 100 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
2 3 103 5.62 3 100 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
3.5 3 103 5.62 3 100 4.30 3 100 3.46 3 100 2.50 3 100 1.94 3 100 1.55 3 100 1.08 3 100 6.96 3 10−1 5.07 3 10−1
b = 0.8 b = 1.0 b = 1.5 b = 2.0 b = 2.5 b = 3.0 b = 4.0 b = 5.0 b = 6.0 b = 7.0
1.79 3 10−2 1.70 3 10−2 1.53 3 10−2 1.38 3 10−2 1.25 3 10−2 1.13 3 10−2 9.33 3 10−3 7.72 3 10−3 6.39 3 10−3 5.30 3 10−3
9.15 3 10−2 8.49 3 10−2 7.13 3 10−2 6.03 3 10−2 5.11 3 10−2 4.35 3 10−2 3.17 3 10−2 2.34 3 10−2 1.74 3 10−2 1.31 3 10−3
1.94 3 10−1 1.75 3 10−1 1.36 3 10−1 1.07 3 10−1 8.46 3 10−2 6.78 3 10−2 4.45 3 10−2 3.02 3 10−2 2.10 3 10−2 1.51 3 10−2
2.96 3 10−1 2.56 3 10−1 1.82 3 10−1 1.33 3 10−1 1.01 3 10−1 7.67 3 10−2 4.76 3 10−2 3.13 3 10−2 2.14 3 10−2 1.52 3 10−2
3.60 3 10−1 3.00 3 10−1 1.99 3 10−1 1.40 3 10−1 1.03 3 10−1 7.79 3 10−2 4.78 3 10−2 ... 2.15 3 10−2 ...
3.91 3 10−1 3.17 3 10−1 2.03 3 10−1 1.41 3 10−1 ... ... ... ... ... ...
3.94 3 10−1 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
3.94 3 10−1 3.17 3 10−1 2.03 3 10−1 1.41 3 10−1 1.03 3 10−1 7.79 3 10−2 4.78 3 10−2 3.13 3 10−2 2.15 3 10−2 1.52 3 10−2
A −2
Values were obtained from (2) by settings = 10 .

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 D 5920 – 96 (2005)
TABLE 2 Values of SD for the Construction of Type B Curves for Fully Penetrating Wells (1)A
ty b = 0.001 b = 0.004 b = 0.01 b = 0.03 b = 0.06 b = 0.1 b = 0.2 b = 0.4 b = 0.6
1 3 10−4 5.62 3 100 4.30 3 100 3.46 3 100 2.50 3 100 1.94 3 100 1.56 3 100 1.09 3 100 6.97 3 10−1 5.08 3 10−1
2 3 10−4 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
3.5 3 10−4 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
6 3 10−4 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
1 3 10−3 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6.97 3 10−1 5.08 3 10−1
2 3 10−3 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6.97 3 10−1 5.09 3 10−1
3.5 3 10−3 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6.98 3 10−1 5.10 3 10−1
6 3 10−3 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7.00 3 10−1 5.12 3 10−1
1 3 10−2 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7.03 3 10−1 5.16 3 10−1
2 3 10−2 ... ... ... ... ... 1.56 3 100 1.09 3 100 7.10 3 10−1 5.24 3 10−1
3.5 3 10−2 ... ... ... ... 1.94 3 100 1.56 3 100 1.10 3 100 7.20 3 10−1 5.37 3 10−1
6 3 10−2 ... ... ... 2.50 3 100 1.95 3 100 1.57 3 100 1.11 3 100 7.37 3 10−1 5.57 3 10−1
1 3 10−1 ... ... ... 2.51 3 100 1.96 3 100 1.58 3 100 1.13 3 100 7.63 3 10−1 5.89 3 10−1
2 3 10−1 5.62 3 100 4.30 3 100 3.46 3 100 2.52 3 100 1.98 3 100 1.61 3 100 1.18 3 100 8.29 3 10−1 6.67 3 10−1
3.5 3 10−1 5.63 3 100 4.31 3 100 3.47 3 100 2.54 3 100 2.01 3 100 1.66 3 100 1.24 3 100 9.22 3 10−1 7.80 3 10−1
6 3 10−1 5.63 3 100 4.31 3 100 3.49 3 100 2.57 3 100 2.06 3 100 1.73 3 100 1.35 3 100 1.07 3 100 9.54 3 10−1
1 3 100 5.63 3 100 4.32 3 100 3.51 3 100 2.62 3 100 2.13 3 100 1.83 3 100 1.50 3 100 1.29 3 100 1.20 3 100
2 3 100 5.64 3 100 4.35 3 100 3.56 3 100 2.73 3 100 2.31 3 100 2.07 3 100 1.85 3 100 1.72 3 100 1.68 3 100
3.5 3 100 5.65 3 100 4.38 3 100 3.63 3 100 2.88 3 100 2.55 3 100 2.37 3 100 2.23 3 100 2.17 3 100 2.15 3 100
6 3 100 5.67 3 100 4.44 3 100 3.74 3 100 3.11 3 100 2.86 3 100 2.75 3 100 2.68 3 100 2.66 3 100 2.65 3 100
1 3 101 5.70 3 100 4.52 3 100 3.90 3 100 3.40 3 100 3.24 3 100 3.18 3 100 3.15 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100
2 3 101 5.76 3 100 4.71 3 100 4.22 3 100 3.92 3 100 3.85 3 100 3.83 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100
3.5 3 101 5.85 3 100 4.94 3 100 4.58 3 100 4.40 3 100 4.38 3 100 4.38 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100
6 3 101 5.99 3 100 5.23 3 100 5.00 3 100 4.92 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100
1 3 102 6.16 3 100 5.59 3 100 5.46 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100
b = 0.8 b = 1.0 b = 1.5 b = 2.0 b = 2.5 b = 3.0 b = 4.0 b = 5.0 b = 6.0 b = 7.0
−1 −1 −1 −1 −1 −2 −2 −2 −2
3.95 3 10 3.18 3 10 2.04 3 10 1.42 3 10 1.03 3 10 7.80 3 10 4.79 3 10 3.14 3 10 2.15 3 10 1.53 3 10−2
... ... ... ... ... 7.81 3 10−2 4.80 3 10−2 3.15 3 10−2 2.16 3 10−2 1.53 3 10−2
... ... ... ... 1.03 3 10−1 7.83 3 10−2 4.81 3 10−2 3.16 3 10−2 2.17 3 10−2 1.54 3 10−2
... ... ... ... 1.04 3 10−1 7.85 3 10−2 4.84 3 10−2 3.18 3 10−2 2.19 3 10−2 1.56 3 10−2
3.95 3 10−1 3.18 3 10−1 2.04 3 10−1 1.42 3 10−1 1.04 3 10−1 7.89 3 10−2 4.78 3 10−2 3.21 3 10−2 2.21 3 10−2 1.58 3 10−2
3.96 3 10−1 3.19 3 10−1 2.05 3 10−1 1.43 3 10−1 1.05 3 10−1 7.99 3 10−2 4.96 3 10−2 3.29 3 10−2 2.28 3 10−2 1.64 3 10−2
3.97 3 10−1 3.21 3 10−1 2.07 3 10−1 1.45 3 10−1 1.07 3 10−1 8.14 3 10−2 5.09 3 10−2 3.41 3 10−2 2.39 3 10−2 1.73 3 10−2
3.99 3 10−1 3.23 3 10−1 2.09 3 10−1 1.47 3 10−1 1.09 3 10−1 8.38 3 10−2 5.32 3 10−2 3.61 3 10−2 2.57 3 10−2 1.89 3 10−2
4.03 3 10−1 3.27 3 10−1 2.13 3 10−1 1.52 3 10−1 1.13 3 10−1 8.79 3 10−2 5.68 3 10−2 3.93 3 10−2 2.86 3 10−2 2.15 3 10−2
4.12 3 10−1 3.37 3 10−1 2.24 3 10−1 1.62 3 10−1 1.24 3 10−1 9.80 3 10−2 6.61 3 10−2 4.78 3 10−2 3.62 3 10−2 2.84 3 10−2
4.25 3 10−1 3.50 3 10−1 2.39 3 10−1 1.78 3 10−1 1.39 3 10−1 1.13 3 10−1 8.06 3 10−2 6.12 3 10−2 4.86 3 10−2 3.98 3 10−2
4.47 3 10−1 3.74 3 10−1 2.65 3 10−1 2.05 3 10−1 1.66 3 10−1 1.40 3 10−1 1.06 3 10−1 8.53 3 10−2 7.14 3 10−2 6.14 3 10−2
4.83 3 10−1 4.12 3 10−1 3.07 3 10−1 2.48 3 10−1 2.10 3 10−1 1.84 3 10−1 1.49 3 10−1 1.28 3 10−1 1.13 3 10−1 1.02 3 10−1
5.71 3 10−1 5.06 3 10−1 4.10 3 10−1 3.57 3 10−1 3.23 3 10−1 2.98 3 10−1 2.66 3 10−1 2.45 3 10−1 2.31 3 10−1 2.20 3 10−1
6.97 3 10−1 6.42 3 10−1 5.62 3 10−1 5.17 3 10−1 4.89 3 10−1 4.70 3 10−1 4.45 3 10−1 4.30 3 10−1 4.19 3 10−1 4.11 3 10−1
8.89 3 10−1 8.50 3 10−1 7.92 3 10−1 7.63 3 10−1 7.45 3 10−1 7.33 3 10−1 7.18 3 10−1 7.09 3 10−1 7.03 3 10−1 6.99 3 10−1
1.16 3 100 1.13 3 100 1.10 3 100 1.08 3 100 1.07 3 100 1.07 3 100 1.06 3 100 1.06 3 100 1.05 3 100 1.05 3 100
1.66 3 100 1.65 3 100 1.64 3 100 1.63 3 100 1.63 3 100 1.63 3 100 1.63 3 100 1.63 3 100 1.63 3 100 1.63 3 100
2.15 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100 2.14 3 100
2.65 3 100 2.65 3 100 2.65 3 100 2.64 3 100 2.64 3 100 2.64 3 100 2.64 3 100 2.64 3 100 2.64 3 100 2.64 3 100
3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100 3.14 3 100
3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100 3.82 3 100
4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100 4.37 3 100
4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100 4.91 3 100
5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100 5.42 3 100
A −2
Values were obtained from Ref (2) by setting s = 10 .

using computer programs such as those of Dawson and Istok of the type curves (Type B curves) and select a late-time match
(2), or Moench (3). The program requires that values for the point. Record the values of s, s D, t/r 2, and ty for this match
dimensionless parameters lD and dD be supplied for the control point. The values of s and sD should be the same for each match
well, and values of zD be supplied for the piezometers, or that point, that is, the data curves should be shifted only horizon-
the values of z1D and z2D be supplied for observation wells. tally, not vertically, on the type curve, and the values of b for
Only drawdowns for which these dimensionless parameters are each observation well should be the same for early and late
similar may be analyzed using the same family of type curves. times.
Prepare as many data plots and families of type curves as 8.1.1.3 Repeat the procedure in 8.1.1.2 for all additional
necessary to analyze the test. data plots and type curves. The values of s and sD should be the
8.1.1.2 Holding the axes parallel, overlay the data plot on same for all plots in a single test. If necessary, repeat the
the type curves. Match as many of the early time-drawdown analysis for each plot until a consistent set of values is obtained
data as possible to the left-most part of the type curve (Type A between all plots. Calculate the value of the term b/r2 for every
curves). Select an early-time match point, and record the values observation well or piezometer. Because the remaining terms
of s, t/r 2, sD and ts. Moving the data plot horizontally, match in the definition of b, a/b2, should be nearly constant over the
as many as possible of the late-time data to the right-most part area of the test, the term b/ r 2 should be independent of radius.

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NOTE 1—From Ref (5).

FIG. 3 Type Curves for Fully Penetrating Wells

2
If not, a new set of match points should be obtained, and b/ r b of 25 m, and data from OW1 as follows:
computed for each well until the values are independent of a = (b/r 2)b 2 = (0.004/81 m 2)(625 m 2) = 0.03
radius. 8.1.2 Semilogarithmic Method—This procedure is appli-
8.1.1.4 Calculate the transmissivity, specific yield, storage cable to tests in which the control and observation wells
coefficient, and horizontal hydraulic conductivity from the effectively fully penetrate the aquifer. Plot drawdown on the
values of s, sD, t/r2, ts and ty: vertical (arithmetic) axis and time divided by the square of the
T 5 QsD/4ps (10) radius to the control well on the horizontal (logarithmic) axis
for all observation wells. The early and late date will tend to
Sy 5 ~T/ty!~t/r2! (11)
fall on parallel straight lines. The intermediate values will fall
on horizontal lines between these two extremes.
8.1.2.1 Fit a straight line to the late data. The intersection of
S 5 ~T/ts!~t/r2! (12)
this line with the horizontal axis (s = 0) is denoted by (t/r2) l.
The slope of the line over one log cycle of t/r2 is denoted Dsl.
Kr 5 T/b (13) The transmissivity and specific yield of the aquifer are then
The anisotropy can be calculated from: calculated from Jacob’s (3) method, using the procedures
a 5 ~b/r2!b2 (14)
described in Test Method D 4105.
T 5 2.30 Q/4pDsl (16)
and the vertical permeability from:
Kz 5 aKr (15)
Sy 5 2.25 T ~t/r2!l (17)
8.1.1.5 The results of a hypothetical aquifer test are shown
in Fig. 4. A control well is discharged at a rate of 0.21 m3 s−1, 8.1.2.2 Fit a horizontal straight line to the intermediate data
and water levels are measured in OW1 at a radius of 9 m from for each observation well. The intersection of the horizontal
the control well, in OW2 (r = 50 m), and OW3 (r = 185 m). straight line with the late-time straight line is denoted t b. The
A log-log plot of drawdown versus time divided by radius to dimensionless time tyb is then calculated from the following:
the control well, squared, is shown for the three observation tyb 5 ~T/Sy!~tb/r2! (18)
wells, superimposed on type curves derived from the data in Using the values of tyb, values of b for each observation
Table 1 and Table 2. Measurements from each observation well well may be obtained by interpolation from Table 3 or be
fall on a different b curve. picked from Fig. 5. The values of b should be independent of
8.1.1.6 For the example, the transmissivity from Eq 10 is: radius, as in 8.1.1.3.
T = Qsd/4ps = (0.21 m 3 s−1 3 1.0)/(4 3 3.14 3 6.5 m)
8.1.2.3 Fit a straight line to the early part of the time-
= 2.57 3 10−3 m 2 s−1,
drawdown data. The intersection of this line with the horizontal
and the specific yield from Eq 11 is:
axis is denoted by (t/r2)e, and the slope of this line over one log
Sy = (T/ty)(t/r 2) = (2.57 3 10 −3 m 2 s−1/1.0)(88 m−2s) = 0.23
cycle is Ds e. The transmissivity and storage coefficient are
The storage coefficient, from Eq 11 is:
calculated from:
S = (T/ts)(t/r 2) = (2.57 3 10 −3 m 2 s−1/1.0)(0.145 m−2s)
= 3.7 3 10 −4 T 5 2.30 Q/4pDs e (19)
The ratio of vertical to horizontal hydraulic conductivity can
be calculated from Eq 14 using an assumed aquifer thickness, S 5 2.25 T ~t/r2!e (20)

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FIG. 4 Aquifer-Test Analysis, Example 1

TABLE 3 Values of 1/b and tyb used in plotting Fig. 5, (1)

1/b tyb
−1
2.50 3 10 4.52 3 10−1
1.67 3 10−1 4.55 3 10−1
2.00 3 10−1 4.59 3 10−1
2.50 3 10−1 4.67 3 10−1
3.33 3 10−1 4.81 3 10−1
4.00 3 10−1 4.94 3 10−1
5.00 3 10−1 5.13 3 10−1
6.67 3 10−1 5.45 3 10−1
1.00 3 100 6.11 3 10−1
1.25 3 100 6.60 3 10−1
1.67 3 100 7.39 3 10−1
2.50 3 100 8.93 3 10−1
5.00 3 100 1.31 3 100
1.00 3 101 2.10 3 100
1.67 3 101 3.10 3 100
3.33 3 101 5.42 3 100
1.00 3 102 1.42 3 101
2.50 3 102 3.22 3 101
1.00 3 103 1.23 3 102
A −9
Values were obtained from Ref (2) by setting s = 10 .

8.1.2.4 The slope of the line should be the same as the one
computed in 8.1.2.1; that is, the transmissivity should be the
same. If not, the type-curve method in 8.1.1 must be used to
compute the storage coefficient. NOTE 1—From Ref (1).
8.1.2.5 A hypothetical example of the use of the semiloga- FIG. 5 Values of 1/b Versus tyb for Fully Penetrating Wells
rithmic method is shown in Fig. 1. In this example a control
well is discharged at 0.01 m3 s−1, and water levels are measured
in a fully penetrating observation Well One (r = 4.5 m), Well 8.2 m. The intersection of a line through the late data with the
Two ( r = 7.5 m), and Well Three (r = 18 m). The change in s = 0 axis, (t/r2)l, is 200 m−2s. The transmissivity and specific
drawdown over one log cycle of time for the late data, Dsl, is yield calculated from Eq 16 and Eq 17 are as follows:

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 D 5920 – 96 (2005)
T = 2.30 Q/4pDsl = (2.30 3 0.01 m3 s–1)/(4 3 3.14 3 8.2 m) site as it conforms and differs from the assumptions in the
= 2.23 3 10–4 m2 s–1 solution to the aquifer test method.
Sy = 2.25 T ( t/r2)l = 2.25 (2.233 10–4 m2 s–1)(200 m–2 s) 9.1.3 Scope of Aquifer Test:
= 0.10 9.1.3.1 Equipment—Report the field installation and equip-
8.1.2.6 From the intersection of the horizontal parts of the ment for the aquifer test, including the construction, diameter,
data plot with the late-time part, a value of t b/r2 of 6100 m−2s depth of screened interval, and location of control well and
was determined for Well One, 2250 m −2s for Well Two, and pumping equipment, and the construction, diameter, depth, and
700 m−2s for Well Three. From Eq 18, a value of tyb is screened interval of observation wells or piezometers.
calculated for Well One as follows: 9.1.3.2 Instrumentation—Report the field instrumentation
tyb = (T/Sy)(tb/r 2) = [(2.23 3 10 −4 m 2s−1)/](6100 m−2s) = 14 for observing water levels, pumping rate, barometric pressure
Similar calculations yield values of tyb of 5 for Well Two changes, and other environmental conditions pertinent to the
and 1.6 for Well Three. From Fig. 5 an approximate value of test. Include a list of measuring devices used during the test;
100 is estimated for 1/b for Well One, 31 for Well Two, and 6 the manufacturer’s name, model number, and basic specifica-
for Well Three. tions for each major item; and the name and date of the last
8.1.2.7 The change in drawdown for one log cycle of time calibration, if applicable.
divided by radius squared for early time data, Ds e, is 8.2 m. 9.1.3.3 Testing Procedures—State the steps taken in con-
The transmissivity calculated from the early data using Eq 19 ducting pretest, drawdown, and recovery phases of the test.
is therefore the same as that calculated from the late data: Include the frequency of measurements of discharge rate, water
T = 2.30 Q/4pDse = (2.30 3 0.01 m 3s−1)/ level in observation wells, and other environmental data
(4 3 3.14 3 8.2 m) = 2.23 3 10−4 m 2s−1 recorded during the testing procedure.
8.1.2.8 The intersection of the early data with the horizontal 9.1.4 Presentation and Interpretation of Test Results:
axis at s = 0, ( t/r2)e, is 1.2 m−2s, so from Eq 20 the storage 9.1.4.1 Data—Present tables of data collected during the
coefficient is as follows: test. Show methods of adjusting water levels for pretest trends,
S = 2.25 T (t/r 2)e = 2.25 (2.23 3 10 −4m 2s−1)(1.2 m−2s) and calculation of drawdown and residual drawdown.
= 6 3 10 −4 9.1.4.2 Data Plots—Present data plots used in analysis of
the data. Show data plots with all values of b, all match points,
9. Report and all match-point values.
9.1 Preparation—Prepare a report including the following 9.1.4.3 Evaluate qualitatively the overall accuracy of the
information. The report of the analysis will include information test on the basis of the adequacy of instrumentation and
from the field testing procedure. observations of stress and response, and the conformance of
9.1.1 Introduction—The introductory section is intended to the hydrogeologic conditions and the conformance of the test
present the scope and purpose of the Neuman method for an to the assumptions of this test method.
unconfined, anisotropic aquifer. Summarize the field geohydro-
logic conditions and the field equipment and instrumentation 10. Precision and Bias
including the construction of the control well and observation 10.1 Precision—It is not practicable to specify the precision
wells and piezometers, the method of measurement of dis- of this test method because the response of aquifer systems
charge and water levels, and the duration of the test and during aquifer tests is dependent upon ambient system stresses.
pumping rates. Discuss the rationale for selecting the Neuman 10.2 Bias—No statement can be made about bias because
method. no true reference values exist.
9.1.2 Hydrogeologic Setting—Review the information
available on the hydrogeology of the site. Interpret and 11. Keywords
describe the hydrogeology of the site as it pertains to the 11.1 anisotropic aquifers; aquifers; aquifer tests; control
selection of this test method for conducting and analyzing an wells; ground water; hydraulic properties; observation wells;
aquifer test. Compare the hydrogeologic characteristics of the transmissivity; unconfined aquifers

8
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 D 5920 – 96 (2005)
REFERENCES

(1) Neuman, Shlomo P., “Analysis of Pumping Test Data from Anisotropic No. 6, 1993, pp. 966–971.
Aquifers Considering Delayed Gravity Response,” Water Resources (4) Neuman, Shlomo P.,“ Theory of Unconfined Aquifers Considering
Research, Vol 11, No. 2, 1975, pp. 329–342. Delayed Response of the Water Table,” Water Resources Research, Vol
(2) Dawson, K. J., and Istok, J. D., Aquifer Testing, Design and Analysis 8, No. 4, 1972, pp. 1031–1045.
of Pumping and Slug Tests, Lewis Publishers, 1991. (5) Neuman, Shlomo P., “Effect of Partial Penetration on Flow in
(3) Moench, Alan F., “Computation of Type Curves for Flow to Partially Unconfined Aquifers Considering Delayed Gravity Response,” Water
Penetrating Wells in Water-Table Aquifers,” Ground Water, Vol 31, Resources Research, Vol 10, No. 2, 1974, pp. 303–312.

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