Hydrochemical characteristics of aquifers and their predicted impact on soil properties in Biskra region, Algeria | ||
| Egyptian Journal of Agricultural Research | ||
| Article 8, Volume 99, Issue 2, July 2021, Pages 205-220 PDF (1.22 M) | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejar.2021.56750.1068 | ||
| Authors | ||
| Semar Ahcène1; Hakim Bachir* 2; Selma Bourafai3 | ||
| 1Applied Geology Laboratory, National Higher School of Agronomy (ENSA). | ||
| 2National institute of Agronomic Research. Algeria. | ||
| 3Applied Geology Laboratory, National Higher School of Agronomy | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Biskra has seen an intensification of agricultural activities in the last few years, and groundwater is widely exploited for irrigation. An investigation has been carried out where water samples are taken according to the standard protocol from 32 boreholes and artisanal wells, thus affecting the three main aquifers (Quaternary, Mio-Pliocene and Senono-Lower Eocene). The study methods are based on the application of Diagrams (Piper, Riverside, Wilcox) and Phreeqc (saturation index). Electrical Conductivity (EC), Percent of Sodium Ions (% Na+), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Kelly's Index (KI) and Permeability Index (PI) are used to characterize potential impacts on soil properties. The analytical results obtained show that the groundwater of the 3 aquifers is neutral and highly mineralized (EC reach of 5 dS/m). The chemical facies are Na-Cl, Ca-Cl and Na-SO4. In relation to the geological conditions, the dominant cations and anions in the ion procession are Na+, Ca2+ and SO42-, Cl- respectively. Carbonate minerals (dolomite, calcite, and aragonite) are found in water in saturated to over-saturated state. Evaporite minerals (anhydrite, gypsum, and halite) evolve from a state close to equilibrium to a sub-saturated level. The Riverside (SAR and EC) and Wilcox (% Na+ and EC) diagrams was applied to the 3 reservoirs reveal excessively mineralized water and are of poor to low quality. RSC index values show a low risk of soil sodization and PI values indicate good quality water for agricultural use. However, the results of the KIs indicate water of poor quality recommended for irrigation. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Aquifer; Soil; Hydrochemical status; Algeria | ||
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