A Practical Guide to Advanced Radio-Krypton Groundwater Dating

Abstract

This publication provides detailed information on recent technical advancements and operational procedures achieved through the Coordinated Research Project (CRP) on “Use of Long-Lived Radionuclides for Dating Very Old Groundwater”. It covers field portable membrane gas extraction devices for sampling dissolved gases from groundwater aquifers, as well as a custom-built krypton purification system for purifying krypton from field-collected bulk gas samples. Additionally, the publication offers guidelines for selecting appropriate groundwater wells and sampling tools, as well as recommendations for proper sample handling and transportation. These guidelines are essential to ensure smooth field sampling, which is vital for accurate isotope analysis and data interpretation. This publication is primarily aimed at professionals in hydrology and environmental science, including researchers and practitioners in isotope hydrology. It is also a valuable resource for groundwater resource managers and policy makers who oversee water sustainability initiatives as well as academic institutions and research labs specializing in earth sciences. It can also benefit government bodies and international organizations focused on environmental policy and water resource management.