How real-time groundwater monitoring reduces risks at an industrial construction site

Together with Arcadis, iFLUX implemented a groundwater monitoring system to monitor permit requirements at an industrial construction site. The resulting data ensures an understanding of the impact of groundwater-related activities, both on the construction site and surrounding areas.

Industrial construction activities often pose significant risks to nearby groundwater-dependent ecosystems and settlement-sensitive structures. Dewatering operations, necessary for construction, can alter groundwater levels and flow, potentially spreading soil and groundwater contaminants. This necessitates a robust and continuous monitoring system to manage these risks effectively.

“At iFLUX, we are dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions for effective groundwater management”, says iFLUX project manager Timothy De Kleyn. “This initiative aims to monitor groundwater levels, flow, and dynamics affected by dewatering operations, ensuring the protection of nearby groundwater-dependent ecosystems and settlement-sensitive structures”

Network composition

To achieve this, together with Arcadis, iFLUX established an advanced groundwater monitoring network. This network remotely measures the groundwater quality, levels, velocity, and orientation at the construction site and in the surrounding areas.

In this case, we composed a network of:

• 56 level sensors
• 5 CTD sensors (measuring conductivity, temperature, and depth)
• 5 of our innovative iFLUX flow sensors, strategically placed across 4 sub-locations

The iFLUX flow sensors are especially crucial for real-time tracking of changes in groundwater flow at critical points, such as zones separated by groundwater of different quality (contamination contours). The real-time continuous and accurate data flow detects the influence of groundwater-related activities and trends. The data platform and Power BI are made to make observations quickly, draw conclusions, and communicate these easily and clearly with the various parties.

Data Management and Communication

Arcadis conducts weekly evaluations of the groundwater data, integrating it with other information, including precipitation data, extraction rates, contamination contours, and permit conditions. These analyses are then communicated to the client and relevant operators, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed of any significant changes or deviations.

Timothy De Kleyn adds: “Our real-time data platform, coupled with Power BI, facilitates observations, trend detection, and seamless communication. This setup enables rapid identification of the causes behind changing groundwater conditions, allowing for prompt and appropriate response measures. The effectiveness of these measures is continually monitored, ensuring timely adjustments as needed.”

Benefits and conclusion

The iFLUX-data ensures a comprehensive understanding of the impact of groundwater-related activities, both on the construction site and in surrounding areas. Consequently, the risks associated with the works are effectively managed, promoting smooth cooperation among all involved parties.

In the literature, it is often indicated that effective monitoring and management of groundwater contamination can reduce the risk of further spread of contaminants by 30% to 70%.

Incorporating groundwater monitoring into project planning allows for better risk assessment and management, leading to more efficient resource allocation and reduced unexpected costs. This proactive approach can result in savings of 10% to 20% of the total project budget by optimizing construction processes and mitigating potential risks.
At iFLUX, we are proud to demonstrate the critical role of real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making in sustainable groundwater management for industrial construction projects.

Our innovative approach not only ensures compliance with regulatory requirements but also safeguards the environment and infrastructure, showcasing the future of groundwater management.

Learn here more about our added value for construction sites.