Abstract
In this study, a solution to one-dimensional vertical airflow induced by the time-dependent atmospheric pressure fluctuations is developed in a three-layer unsaturated zone. The discrete atmospheric pressure data are transformed into a continuous boundary condition using the Fourier series analysis. The solution is applied to interpret the field air pressure data in a three-layer unsaturated zone reported in previous studies. The new solution improves the previous solution by reducing the required data measurement and input. The new solution is found to be accurate enough for the purpose of this study by comparing with a numerical solution developed in COMSOL Multiphysics. Given the necessary hydrogeological parameters, the new solution is capable of calculating the air permeability of each layer above a specified depth where the air pressures are known. Sensitivity analysis of the new solution shows that location, thickness, and air permeability of the less permeable layer impose large influence on the propagation of the atmospheric pressure fluctuations. Variations of air-filled porosity in soil layers in/below the less permeable layer may lead to greater amplitude attenuation and phase lag of air pressure than those in soil layers above the less permeable layer.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
