CONFERENCEAutomating field infiltration tests
Janis Bikse
University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences
Konrads Popovs
University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences
Aija Delina
University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences
Andis Kalvans
University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences
DOI: 10.22364/fg.15.2
Keywords: double ring infiltrometer, filtration properties, granulometric composition
Abstract
Double ring infiltrometer tests are useful source of infiltration data when in-situ measurements are necessary. Such tests are used in many disciplines including agriculture, soil science, geology, flood risk management and many more. This paper presents a method of using a double ring infiltrometer with an automatized measurement system, reducing the need for human assistance. A falling head system was used. The constructed infiltrometer system was field tested on two polygons representing sandstone from the Upper Devonian Gauja and Amata Formations. Eight test pits were dug in total, with ten tests conducted in each pit: five on homogenous sandstone and five on sandstone showing visible fissure. Results were supportive of the usefulness of the constructed double ring infiltrometer system. A difference in infiltration rate was detected between the two sandstone formations, as well as a higher rate of infiltration in the fissured sandstones. The correlation (R2=0.86) between effective grain size (d10) and infiltration rate indicates a high impact of grain size distribution on infiltration.