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Use of chlorofluorocarbons (CCl3F and CCl2F2) as hydrologic tracers and age‐dating tools: The alluvium and terrace system of central Oklahoma

September 1, 1992

The use of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as an age‐dating tool and tracer in shallow groundwaters has been investigated. New methodology for field sampling and preserving groundwaters containing parts per trillion concentrations of the CFCs, F‐1l and F‐12, is presented. Samples are analyzed by purge‐and‐trap gas chromatography with an electron capture detector. Physical and chemical processes that can alter natural concentrations (air‐water equilibrium) of CFCs were investigated to assess dating uncertainties. CFC model recharge ages appear to be defined within 2 years under optimum conditions. The method was applied to central Oklahoma to demonstrate the usefulness of CFCs as (1) an age‐dating tool of shallow groundwaters, (2) a tracer of sewage effluent in surface and shallow groundwaters, and (3) a tracer of shallow groundwater. Results of dating indicate two primary recharge periods in central Oklahoma over the past 45 years that correspond to the wet periods 1945–1960 and 1967–1975.

Publication Year 1992
Title Use of chlorofluorocarbons (CCl3F and CCl2F2) as hydrologic tracers and age‐dating tools: The alluvium and terrace system of central Oklahoma
DOI 10.1029/92WR01263
Authors Eurybiades Busenberg, Niel Plummer
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Water Resources Research
Index ID 70185462
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization National Research Program - Eastern Branch; Toxic Substances Hydrology Program
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