OUR EXPERTISE
« TRAQUA - WE TRACK WATER »
TRAQUA specialises in field hydrogeology, with particular expertise in fluorescent dye tracing. Co-founder Dr Amaël Poulain obtained his PhD in karst hydrogeology and developed the compact STREAM® fluorometers.
WHAT IS DYE TRACING ?
In fluorescent dye tracing, a non-toxic, artificial, fluorescent dye is injected into a groundwater network. This network may be a natural aquifer or karst system, an artificial drainage system, or other man-made infrastructure.
The dye mixes with the water and can be detected using optical or physicochemical monitoring equipment. The concentration and timing of this detection can provide information about key hydrogeological properties.
The restitution or breakthrough curves (concentration of dye vs. time) can provide information on:
🔸Flow connectivity
🔸Velocity
🔸Residence time
🔸Hydraulic dispersion
🔸Effective porosity
The use of our own STREAM® in-situ fluorometers allows a direct and precise measurement of the presence and concentration of our tracers, without the need for additional analysis. The use of our instruments greatly simplifies logistics and provides faster and more reliable results.
Due to the high sensitivity of these field fluorometers and the low detection limit of a few hundredths of a ppb (1ppb = 1 µg/litre), only a very small amount of tracer is required. The ability to use UV tracers limits the visual impact of dye tracing on sensitive sites.
GENERAL DYE TRACING STEPS
Conduct a preliminary study of the site and legal requirements.
Prepare the tracer test campaign, including the type and quantity of dye and the monitoring sites.
Install a monitoring network.
Inject a fluorescent dye.
Analyse the breakthrough curves.
WANT TO LEARN MORE ?
TRAQUA organises a Dye Tracing Summer School in London. Show your interest and stay up to date by filling out this form.
We can also provide on-site training for your team in French or English. Contact us here to discuss the possibilities and to receive a quote: contact@traqua.be
