gwsCARE

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groundwater sampler

gwsCARE™: groundwater sampler

The gwsCARE™ passive sampler is an accurate, rapid, inexpensive method for monitoring PFAS and hydrocarbon contamination in groundwater. Save time and money while maintaining data quality with gwsCARE, a passive groundwater and surface water sampler. The sampler is ideal for monitoring groundwater for:

• per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

• hydrocarbons

• subterrestrial stygofauna

gwsCARE is a versatile instrument for sampling contaminated groundwater. It is an alternative to purging and low-flow sampling and represents an excellent approach to:

• routine sampling of groundwater for PFAS and hydrocarbons

• non-routine sampling of surface water and subterrestrial stygofauna

• monitoring low-yield boreholes

• multiple discreet interval groundwater sampling.

The sampler is ideal for consultants, regulators, researchers and others undertaking regular water monitoring.

 

sampler advantages

gwsCARE provides many advantages over traditional methods of groundwater sampling, including:

• cheaper, quicker, easier, one-person operation

• minimal training

• less waste; device can be re-used

• no motor required

• minimal turbidity and water disturbance

• in situ operation at specific locations

• ability to sample adequate volume for a range of contaminants

• detection capabilities matching low-flow sampling

• no purge water required.

Simple 4-step operation

  • Lower the sampler via cable to required depth with one-way valve in closed position using air pressure via hand-held air pump
  • Open the one-way valve by releasing the pressure
  • Retrieve sampler
  • Transfer water sample to laboratory-prescribed container.

Features

  1. Suitable for bores of diameter 42 mm or greater
  2. Flexible holding volume, allowing for different analytes
  3. Sampler weighted to overcome buoyancy
  4. Rapid water collection through top of sampler
  5. Water sample sealed in situ.

Deploying the sampler creates minimal disturbance, permitting short equilibration time. This allows reestablishment of the natural water flow pattern and chemical equilibration of the grab sample with analytes in the monitoring well.

The sample holder is made from materials appropriate to the contaminant. For example, stainless steel, and Perspex-glass are suitable for PFAS and Teflon for hydrocarbon sampling.

Suitable quarter-inch HDPE tubing is recommended for PFAS and Teflon tubing for hydrocarbon analytes. Recommended tubing prevents losses and cross-contamination between wells due to adsorption, although the water sample does not contact the tubing.