An autonomous water sampling and monitoring device for deployment in harsh underground environment

Abstract

A better understanding of hydrological processes is required in order to ensure fresh water supply for future generations. In this paper, a concept describing a transportable water sampling device is presented. The sampler is placed inside a mountain's karst water region and autonomously collects discrete water samples over a period of one year for later isotope analysis. Furthermore, environmental properties are monitored and logged. A complete system design is presented, including mechanical and electronic components which fulfil the demanding system constraints. The device operates under water and must withstand a hydrostatic pressure of up to 20 [bar]. Because of the difficult deployment it has to have a compact and light design. The exceptional requirements on the device led to the development of a new sampling process and custom-built components. Due to the flexibility and economical production some components were produced by rapid prototyping. The validation confirmed that the device is able to improve the research on the flow of water in karst aquifers. It has also significant potential for further developments and a broad range of applications.