Abstract: Effects of Pumping from Blasted-Bedrock Zones on Groundwater Capture

David Edwards

Linear, in-situ blasting of fractured bedrock markedly increases subsurface hydraulic conductivity and improves hydraulic connection between otherwise isolated fractures. Yields from wells pumping from blasted-bedrock zones are increased by one or more orders of magnitude relative to yields from wells outside blasted-bedrock zones. Capture zones are expanded, and contaminant removal rates are improved considerably.

Case histories are presented along with novel concepts for application of blasted-bedrock remediation. Several analytical models are presented for predicting groundwater capture zones based on various pumping scenarios.