Sodium naphthionate: fluorescent tracer for tracing in natural environments

Sodium naphthionate is a fluorescent substance that can be used as a tracer in hydrological and hydrogeological studies. Its signal makes it possible to detect and monitor its movement through water using a suitable detection method.

It can be used to monitor a flow, identify a hydraulic connection, observe tracer recovery, study transit time or distinguish between several water circulation paths.

It can be incorporated into studies involving aquifers, rivers, springs, karst networks, catchment areas and other natural systems in which water circulation needs to be investigated.

Yes. Its detection is based on a fluorescent signal that must be measured or analysed using a suitable method.

Sodium fluorescein, also known as uranine, is one of the best-known tracers used in hydrology. Sodium naphthionate may be selected as a complementary substance, particularly when a protocol requires several distinct fluorescent signatures.

Yes, it can be incorporated into a multi-tracer protocol. However, the different substances must be clearly distinguishable during measurement and analysis.

The choice depends on the environment being studied, the required signal, expected dilution, available equipment, other tracers being used and the objectives of the test.

Monitoring a fluorescent tracer requires a suitable detection method. Depending on the protocol, this may involve sampling, laboratory analysis, a fluorimeter or other measurement equipment.

A sodium naphthionate tracing study should not rely solely on observation with the naked eye. The choice and interpretation of the signal depend on the analytical method defined in the protocol.

The quantity depends on the flow rate, volume, distance, expected dilution, measurement sensitivity and required signal level. It must be defined according to the specific conditions of the study.