Using the Stabilization Plateau to Estimate Optimum Well Purge Volume

This study concerns the problem of pump position in landfill monitoring wells and the correct time to stop purging and start sampling. Literature purge volume determination methods fail to use sufficient analyte values for comprehensive study of the stabilization plateau. From field studies it is re...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Ground water monitoring & remediation 2000-08, Vol.20 (3), p.113-121
Main Authors: Hurt, Burhara F., Tomlinson, Rodger B., Chaseling, Janet
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:This study concerns the problem of pump position in landfill monitoring wells and the correct time to stop purging and start sampling. Literature purge volume determination methods fail to use sufficient analyte values for comprehensive study of the stabilization plateau. From field studies it is recommended that prior to commencement of a sampling program a purge study be undertaken to determine pump position and optimum purge volume by conducting (1) a preliminary vertical electrical conductivity (EC) profile: (2) vertical profiling of formation water EC values by low‐flow pumping at 0.5 m vertical intervals‐while also noting EC vertical profile values to assure minimal effect on the water column water quality; and (3) a low‐flow, purge EC stabilization test with the pump positioned at highest formation water EC values. Sufficient EC values are needed to fulfill Conover's (1980) nonparametric tolerance interval sample size criteria, and to graphically delineate the stabilization plateau. This information will allow you to choose an optimum purge volume that allows a margin for error.
ISSN:1069-3629
1745-6592
DOI:10.1111/j.1745-6592.2000.tb00277.x