Assessment of Groundwater Age in the Upper Chao Phraya River Basin Using Tritium and Carbon-14 Isotope Analysis

Abstract

Groundwater is a critical resource in the Upper Chao Phraya basin, providing consistent water supplies for agricultural, domestic, and industrial activities, especially during the dry season. This study utilized tritium and carbon-14 dating techniques to investigate groundwater age, analyzing 273 samples collected in 2021 from various wells and depths across the basin. Tritium and carbon-14 were measured using liquid scintillation counting (LSC). The results revealed a wide range of groundwater ages, including recently recharged water with tritium concentrations up to 2.4 TU, corresponding to groundwater ages ranging from a few months to 44.17 years BP (Before Present), with an average of 18.26 years BP. Older groundwater was identified with carbon-14 concentrations as low as 3.22 pMC, indicating ages of up to 22,899 years, with a mean age of 6687 years BP. Correlation analysis showed a positive relationship between tritium and carbon-14 concentrations (r = 0.52). Spatial distribution patterns indicated that tritium concentrations were higher in northern and mountainous areas, identifying these as critical recharge zones. In contrast, lower carbon-14 concentrations in the central and southern areas suggested the presence of older groundwater, emphasizing the need for careful management of these ancient water reserves. The spatial variation in tritium and carbon-14 concentrations highlights differences in groundwater circulation and recharge patterns, enabling the identification of key recharge zones in the northern and highland regions. This highlights the importance of conserving these areas from pollution and over-extraction. The presence of old groundwater in the central and southern areas further emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring to sustainably manage these long-term water resources. This study enhances the understanding of groundwater dynamics in the Upper Chao Phraya basin and provides valuable insights for improving water resource management strategies.