Report R 151 Interpreting measurements of gas in the ground: methane and associated hazards to construction

Publication Year

1995

Document Status

Current

Abstract

Rational judgements about the risks to development from ground gases, such as methane, carbon dioxide and landfill gas, rely upon understanding the gas/water/ground regime. Gas measurements, taken during an investigation of a site, provide part of the evidence from which to postulate a reliable model of the gas source and its pathways of movement. This report provides guidance for engineers to test the validity of gas measurements and their meaning. Its purpose is to assist those planning, undertaking and interpreting gas investigations to take sensible measurements and to make sense of the measurements taken. The report shows how the systems of measurement affect the values measured, how external conditions alter the gas regime, and how, by recognising what has and has not been measured, the results of the measurements can be interpreted in the site context. The report reviews the limitations of current gas measurement techniques and recommends ways to standardise and improve not only the techniques of measurement but also the ways to develop sound interpretations.

ISBN

9780860174462

Publisher Information