Danyang Sun

Hi everyone! I’m Danyang from China. In my PhD I am focusing on groundwater in coastal Australia. I will date and analyze the source of groundwater. My research topic is Research on groundwater sources and dating at National Groundwater Recharge Observation System sites of Australia.

Project: Research on groundwater sources and dating at National Groundwater Recharge Observation System sites of Australia

Supervised by: Andy Baker, Martin Andersen

Project Description: Groundwater resources play a vital role in water supply, agriculture, and ecosystem sustainability, particularly in regions facing the challenge of climate change. This study focuses on groundwater recharge processes in cave systems being part of the National Groundwater Recharge Observation System (NGROS) project. However, in Australia most limestone is karstified and contain caves. Karst aquifers, known for their high permeability, vulnerability and complex underground drainage systems, require a deep understanding of water movement, recharge and storage dynamics. The research will start with conceptualising the underground caves in Australia. This is followed by integrating water dating, stable water isotopes, hydrochemical methods, and statistical methods to quantify recharge volume and identify different types of drip water. Based on the former results, the conceptual model will be improved and developed into a numerical model. The project will enhance prediction of groundwater behaviour in response to climatic changes and human activities. The findings aim to provide vital information for the sustainable management of groundwater resources, particularly in karst regions, offering insights into water quality and environmental risks influenced by extreme weather events.