A multi-tracer approach for understanding the functioning of heterogeneous phreatic coastal aquifers in humid tropical zones

In many areas around the world, phreatic coastal aquifers are vulnerable to contamination and saltwater intrusion. This study aims to explore the hydrodynamic functioning of the coastal phreatic aquifer of the Urabá region, Colombia, based on the identification of hydrogeochemical processes and grou...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Hydrological sciences journal 2021-03, Vol.66 (4), p.600-621
Main Authors: Campillo, Ana, Taupin, J. D., Betancur, T., Patris, N., Vergnaud, V., Paredes, V., Villegas, P.
Format: Article
Language:eng ; fre
Subjects:
aquifer
Aquifer recharge
Aquifers
Carbon dioxide
Chlorofluorocarbons
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Coastal aquifers
Colombia
Contamination
Groundwater
Groundwater dating
Groundwater pollution
Groundwater recharge
hydrodynamic
Hydrodynamics
Hydrogeochemistry
Hydrologic data
isotopes
Precipitation
Saline water
Saline water intrusion
Salt water intrusion
Saltwater intrusion
Silicates
sulphur hexafluoride (SF
Surface water
Time lag
Tracers
Transit time
Tropical climate
Weathering
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Summary:In many areas around the world, phreatic coastal aquifers are vulnerable to contamination and saltwater intrusion. This study aims to explore the hydrodynamic functioning of the coastal phreatic aquifer of the Urabá region, Colombia, based on the identification of hydrogeochemical processes and groundwater residence and transit times. Hydrodynamic data showed a fast response of the piezometric levels to precipitation with a maximum time lag of 48 h. Mean annual recharge was estimated at 19% with respect to precipitation. Another recharge mode is linked to infiltration from surface water, according to the hydrodynamic results. The main geochemical process identified is hydrolysis due to dissolved carbon dioxide, inducing silicate weathering and resulting in predominant HCO 3 -Ca-Mg facies. Monitoring of δ 18 O and δ 2 H compositions combined with 3 H, 14 C, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and SF 6 contents showed a fast recharge in the aquifer. Groundwater dating indicates recent waters mixed with older (>40 years) waters.
ISSN:0262-6667
2150-3435
DOI:10.1080/02626667.2021.1882679