Chalk aquifer study : permeability and fractures in the English Chalk : a review of hydrogeological literature

The purpose of this report is to provide a review of the hydrogeological literature concerning the hydraulically significant fractures in the Chalk aquifer in England. The review discusses only the effect of the fractures on the permeability of the aquifer; it does not address the question of storage, nor the properties of the matrix. The report charts the evolution of ideas regarding the nature, occurrence and causes of hydraulically significant fractures in the Chalk and attempts to summarise the present state of knowledge concerning the fractures, noting where gaps in understanding exist. Finally suggestions are made concerning future research.