Tracer Testing

Effectively tracing the fate of agents in the subsurface!

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Our staff have designed and implemented numerous tracer tests in both fractured and unconsolidated geologic materials. IRSL often uses natural and injected tracers to aid in the understanding of the fate and transport of contaminants within the subsurface, including the injection of reagents such as oxidants, reductants, and surfactants. Tracers can range from distilled water or salt water, sodium or potassium bromide, to dyes, etc., depending on the formation and objective of the tracer study.

Experience

We hold a Certificate of Approval in the Province of Ontario to inject a variety of tracers, providing our clients with a powerful tool in aiding the understanding of the distribution of contaminants and injected compounds. Tracers IRSL has used to aid our clients’ understanding of their site’s hydrogeology include: Bromide, CFCs, Chloride, Helium, Sodium, Sulphur Hexafluoride, Tritium, and a wide varity of Stable Isotopes.

Details

Tracers are benign compounds, elements or solutions that are injected into the subsurface and then traced using sophisticated imaging techniques. Tracer testing can be used to visualize groundwater flow patterns, understand bedrock fracture zones, monitor subsurface groundwater travel times, and confirm injection areas of influence in the subsurface.