The method for near-surface screening of soil water is designed to reduce the cost per sampling point, making it economically feasible to investigate multiple points. The method can be used for installations at depths down to 5 meters below the ground surface. The suction cells can be installed using either:
- Specially designed installation equipment (optimal for installations from 0-1 meters below ground level).
- Hand drilling equipment (for installation from 1-3 meters below ground level).
- Direct Push technology (for installations from 0-5 meters below ground level).
One advantage of using Direct Push is that there is no excess soil to handle afterwards.
The method essentially involves installing a suction cell in a slurry of quartz flour and water in the soil matrix, which is connected to a tube, which in turn is connected to a collection bottle with a specially designed lid, placed above ground. A vacuum is applied to the collection bottle, and sampling begins. In the case of sampling for volatile contaminants, sampling must be carried out using Sorbicells and DMR’s automated control unit for controlled sampling. The control unit can also be used in cases where the soil matrix consists of coarse-grained material, where controlled vacuum is necessary.
Approximately, soil water samples taken by this method can be obtained for about 5,000–7,000 DKK per point, including materials, but excluding analysis costs. The price depends on practical conditions such as the number of sampling points and travel distance. A sample of 0.8-1.5 L can be expected. If a larger volume is needed, vacuum can be applied again after emptying, which will, however, result in additional time/costs for sampling.
DMR can provide advice on soil water sampling, installation of suction cells, and sale of equipment for pore water sampling. Visit our equipment sales: https://www.dmr.eu/shop/soil-water-sampling/
Do you have any questions about our equipment or technologies? Please contact one of our specialists:
