Determination of Hydraulic conductivity of Sandstones of Ajali Formation in Uturu Area (Southeasthern Nigeria) Using Grain Size Analysis.

The determination of hydraulic conductivity of sandstones of Ajali Sandstone Formation in Uturu area (southeasthern Nigeria) was carried out using grain size analysis. The Ajali Sandstone Formation consists of whitish to reddish friable, poorly sorted cross bedded sandstone. A total of twelve (12) samples were randomly collected and subjected to laboratory analysis such as porosity test and sieve analysis.  Results indicates that the Ajali Sandstone has porosity values that ranged between 20% and 26% and the hydraulic conductivity values range  from  136.9m/day to 916.837m/day. These values of porosity and hydraulic conductivity are indications of high specific yield for the sandstone which is reasonable for economic water supply. The unconfined aquifer of Ajali Sandstone is the basic characteristic aquifer unit of the area. Keyword: Hydraulic conductivity, Aquifer, Ajali Formation, Grain size analysis