Hydrogeology
Hydrogeology is a science that studies water in land. This water, which comes from the precipitation of rainwater, circulates in the ground to end up in the waterways.
Groundwater is a resource of often incomparable quality and value. Indeed, in Quebec, it can often be exploited without requiring treatment. Therefore, the capital and operating costs are much lower than those of surface water treatment.
Groundwater and surface water tracer tests involve injecting a substance into the water (a tracer) and tracking it in time and space. This is a specialty that is particularly underdeveloped by most consultants, and Hydro-Ressources makes it a priority.
As groundwater is a resource of inestimable value, it is necessary to protect it adequately. The case of Walkerton in Ontario, where residents died as a result of bacteriological contamination is a case that should serve as a lesson to all operators.
Numerical simulation consists of the use of specialized software to understand and analyze the behavior of groundwater.
Hydro-Ressources specializes in hydrogeology applied to mining. This expertise is divided into three main parts, namely 1) the analysis of the impacts caused by the presence of a mine on the environment, 2) the dewatering of a mine and 3) the analysis of soil or water. contaminated in a mining environment.
Spheres of activity
The main areas of activity of Hydro-Ressources in hydrogeology include:
- Mining dewatering
- Profile tracing tests
- Velocity profiles in boreholes
- Groundwater supply
- Estimation of protection areas for catchment works
- Numerical simulation using finite difference and finite element methods
- Regional tracer testing
- Various types of hydrogeological studies
The value of groundwater
Groundwater holds significant value and utility, both from municipal and commercial perspectives. In Quebec, it is typically potable without the need for treatment before distribution. As a result, it presents a financially attractive option for municipalities, especially when compared to treated surface water, which involves substantial investments and ongoing operational costs.
Disadvantages of groundwater
In other cases, groundwater poses a challenge. Specifically, in mines, it can lead to delays in operations and stability issues with pit walls. Operational mine dewatering is one of our key areas of expertise.
Profile Tracing Test (PTT)
Patented methodology
A profile tracing test (PTT) is a method recently adopted by our firm. The concept is straightforward: it involves mixing a tracer as uniformly as possible in a single open borehole (e.g., a diamond drill hole for exploration). Once the tracer is introduced, its concentration is measured at various intervals within the same vertical borehole. Concentration profiles are generated, and variations in these concentrations indicate the location of the naturally active flow zone. Specifically, when concentrations decrease, it signifies the presence of flow.
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