A slug test involves inducing a rapid change in water level in a test well (see note: slug). By measuring and recording the rate of return to static conditions (recovery), one is able to estimate the local horizontal hydraulic conductivity of the material surrounding the well. Slug test data are generally analyzed using relatively standard analytical solutions to the equations which govern groundwater flow. Homogeneity and constant aquifer thickness are common assumptions for conditions within the area of influence of the test.

This paper describes a Excel spreadsheet for estimating the hydraulic conductivity of saturated geologic materials. Results are generated simultaneously using the methods of Bouwer and Rice (1976, 1989, 1989a) and of Hvorslev (1951). The spreadsheet-based platform allows open access to calculation formulae, allowing modification and improvement by users. It is assumed that users are familiar with the theory and practice of slug testing. Once familiar with the operation of the worksheet, users typically perform a complete analysis of ASCII formatted time-level data in 15 to 30 minutes.

Slug tests are a method of measuring hydraulic conductivity in the logion region around a test well.

The study of groundwater flow in geologic media.