Condensation in Glow-worm Cave, Waitomo, New Zealand Research Completed
Title
Condensation in Glow-worm Cave, Waitomo, New Zealand
Lead Author
Schmekal, A. A. & de Freitas, C. R.
Organisation(s)
Department of Conservation
Publication Year
2001
Publisher
Department of Conservation
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Abstract
Understanding cave microclimates is critical for managing a cave environment. A reliable method of measuring condensation within the Glow-worm Cave, Waitomo, New Zealand is described. The results of testing a physical model for predicting condensation rates are reported. Spatial and temporal patterns of condensation in the cave are identified as forming three zones: transitional, entrance, and deep cave zones. Air exchange between the cave and the outside can increase or decrease condensation rates. Condensation is influenced by warm-season and cool-season differences and, more immediately, by opening and closing the solid door at the Upper Entrance to the cave. If wet and dry bulb temperatures of the cave air and rock-surface temperature are known, the dew-point of the air can be estimated. If the rock-surface temperature is below this figure, condensation occurs, if it is above, then no condensation takes place. Cave managers can determine when and where condensation will occur, and how much of the process involves the back-and-forth dynamic process of condensation/evaporation, which inevitably leads to calcite weathering. A table can be used for predicting condensation in the various zones of the cave, and the microclimate can be managed to retain optimum conditions.
Keywords:
Waitomo, Cave, Recreation, Heritage, Conservation, Department of Conservation, Tourism, Impact, Environment
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1205
Added
June 26, 2012