TITLE:
Modeling the Hydrogeochemical Processes and Source of Ions in the Groundwater of Aquifers within Kasra-Nukhaib Region (West Iraq)
AUTHORS:
Bayan Muhie Hussien, Abed Salih Faiyad
KEYWORDS:
Groundwater, Ion Exchange, Water-Rock Interaction, Geochemical Process
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Geosciences,
Vol.7 No.10,
October
20,
2016
ABSTRACT: Hydrogeological investigation of groundwater has been performed within
Kasra- Nukhaib district (west Iraq). The physicochemical analyses of the
groundwater samples collected from Um Erdhuma-Tayarat aquifer are used in
determination of hydrogeochemical processes, hydrochemical
facies, hydrochemical ratio, and saturation indices supported by phreeqc
software. The monitoring network of groundwater quality consists of twelve
physiochemical variables in twenty four water wells were determined, aiming to
examine the hydrogeo-chemical phenomena which
are benefit in groundwater development and support the plans of future uses
(exploitation) and groundwater management. A hydrogeological model was prepared
to examine qualitative evaluation of aquifers media related to geochemical
processes. Spatial hydrochemical bi-models were achieved for quantitative
interpretation. Various graphical plots such as Piper, Durov, and Gibbs
diagrams are used in proving different geochemical processes. The results are
correlated with standards classifications to deduce the hydrogeo-chemical
phenomena. The results showed that the groundwater of Um Erdhuma-Tayarat
aquifer has a property of Carbonate weathering represents the major
hydrogeochemical processes. In addition, ion exchange and reverse ion exchange
were two possible processes of water-rock
interaction (e.g. dolomitization processes) within the hydrogeologic system. Also,
the evaporation process and mixing action of recharge vadose waters, and
ancient trapped fossil waters have a moderate effect on the evolution of groundwater
quality. An increased salt content is observed in groundwater at different
static water levels indicating mixing with various sources. The
mechanism controlling groundwater chemistry is originally related to geogenic
process. In addition, anthropogenic activities have not significantly altered
the geochemical nature of groundwater in the aquifers system.