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Overview of Methods Applied in Karst Hydrogeology

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Karst Aquifers—Characterization and Engineering

Part of the book series: Professional Practice in Earth Sciences ((PRES))

Abstract

Because of their heterogeneity and specific hydraulic structure, karst aquifers require adapted investigation methods. Based on a conceptual model of karst aquifers, this chapter outlines the “karst hydrogeology toolbox”, consisting of geological, geophysical and speleological methods, hydrologic and hydraulic techniques, the use of natural tracers, such as isotopes and hydrochemical parameters, as well as the application of artificial tracer tests. Geologic and geophysical methods are useful to define the external boundaries and internal geometry and properties of karst systems. Speleological investigations make it possible to obtain direct insights into the drainage structure of conduit networks. Hydrological and hydrologic methods are used to establish water balances and to determine aquifer parameters and hydraulic boundary conditions. Hydrochemical and microbiological techniques are used to characterize water quality and contamination problems. Because of the extreme variability of karst water sources, continuous on-line monitoring techniques are generally preferred. Natural tracers help to identify the origin, movement and mixing of water and to characterize water-rock interactions. Artificial tracers, such as fluorescent dyes, are the most powerful tool to confirm underground connections, to delineate spring catchments, to quantify flow velocities and to obtain relevant contaminant transport parameters. The fields of application, as well as the required adaptations and the limitations of these methods are discussed and illustrated by means of several application examples and case studies.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Institute for Applied Geosciences (AGW), Division of Hydrogeology, Kaiserstr. 12, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany

    Nico Goldscheider

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  1. Nico Goldscheider
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Correspondence to Nico Goldscheider .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Hydrogeology, Faculty of Mining and Geology, University of Belgrade, Centre for Karst Hydrogeology, Belgrade, Serbia

    Zoran Stevanović

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Goldscheider, N. (2015). Overview of Methods Applied in Karst Hydrogeology. In: Stevanović, Z. (eds) Karst Aquifers—Characterization and Engineering. Professional Practice in Earth Sciences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-12850-4_4

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