Red Nacional de Colectores de Isótopos en Precipitación en Argentina : su importancia en estudios hidrogeológicos

DAPEÑA, CRISTINA; PANARELLO, HECTOR

Mar del Plata, provincia de Buenos Aires

Congreso; XXXII IAH & VI ALHSUD ?Groundwater and Human development?; 2002

AIH , AIH-GA y ALHSUD

Since 1978 the Instituto de Geocronología y Geología Isotópica (INGEIS) takes part of the Global Network for Isotopes in Precipitation (GNIP).  In this framework, INGEIS established a National Collector Network for Isotopes in Precipitation (RNC).  The main objective is the evaluation of the spatial and temporal distribution of isotope contents in precipitation and their dependence on relevant meteorological parameters, providing basic input data to hydrological investigations.  The network operation is based on the sampling of monthly composite precipitation at selected locations.  The stable isotope ratios (2H/1H) and (18O/16O) and the 3H concentration  are measured at INGEIS laboratories. These data are complemented by meteorological information such as mean surface air temperature, mean water vapour pressure at the ground water level and amount of precipitation.  The  RNC operation was and still is based on the support of INGEIS stations, voluntary contributions of many Research National Institutions and private organizations, as well as individuals, who provide precipitation samples and meteorological data. The connection between the isotope variability and climatic change provides good arguments to maintain the existing observation network.  The number of stations of the RNC should increase in areas where the climatic archives are located, especially where the effects of the climatic change are expected to be more pronounced.