Depth variations in aquifer hydrochemistry using a low-cost, multilevel piezometer

摘要

Studies of depth variations in aquifer hydrochemistry are constrained by the expense of collecting depth-specific groundwater samples. To overcome this restriction, a low-cost, 'bundled' (multilevel) piezometer has been adapted for a study of the depth to which recent recharge and contaminants have penetrated the Triassic sandstone aquifer in urban areas of the United Kingdom (UK). The design features 10 sampling intervals and can be installed manually in open boreholes. Field testing of the design in an existing borehole in the unconfined sandstone aquifer underlying the city of Nottingham (UK) demonstrates the efficacy of the design in fissured bedrock as significant hydrochemical variations are observed over a few metres in depth. The availability and low cost of materials (US