Calculation of elapsed decimal time for tracing studies.

Area of Science:

• Hydrology
• Environmental Science
• Geosciences

Background:

• Accurate time of travel calculations are vital for hydrologic transport studies, including pollutant arrival times and subsurface flow velocity.
• Breakthrough curve modeling relies on precise travel time data for realistic simulation outcomes.
• Challenges in long tracer tests include inconsistent sampling schedules and equipment failures due to adverse conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for accurately calculating travel times in hydrologic tracer studies.
• To address inaccuracies caused by inconsistent sampling schedules and equipment disruptions.
• To enhance the reliability of transport parameter calculations and breakthrough curve modeling.

Main Methods:

• Converting conventionally recorded Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) for sampling events to a unified baseline time standard.
• Establishing a consistent temporal reference point for all sampling events.
• Linking all recorded dates and times to the baseline standard for accurate relative determination.

Main Results:

• Successfully converted long and inconsistent sampling times to accurate decimal times of travel.
• Provided a reliable method to link sampling events to injection time, regardless of schedule inconsistencies.
• Enabled more precise calculation of transport parameters and improved breakthrough curve modeling.

Conclusions:

• The proposed baseline time standard method significantly improves the accuracy of travel time calculations in hydrologic tracer studies.
• This method enhances the dependability of pollutant transport analysis and subsurface flow velocity estimations.
• Accurate travel time data is essential for meaningful hydrologic model interpretation and environmental risk assessment.