Measurement of three-dimensional permeability

This study investigates the possibility of using a three-dimensional radial flow test to measure permeability. As part of this investigation, compaction tests have been conducted to determine the fibre volume fraction as a function of the compaction pressure. Results from permeability tests are reported. The flow front in these tests is measured using thermistors. The dependence of the flow front shape on the injection pressure has been demonstrated. In the case of three-dimensional flow the capillary pressure can become more important than the externally applied injection pressure. As a consequence, the sharp flow front becomes a flow front zone. Permeability measurement is no longer possible. This has been confirmed experimentally. Finally, new possible applications for the flow measurement sensors are discussed. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Limited.