The use of multivariate statistics and hydrogeochemical analyses for the characterization of groundwater mineralization. A case study of El Hadaiek aquifer, Nord-East of Algeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22399/ijcesen.5233Keywords:
groundwater, mineralization, PCR, saturation index, faciesAbstract
A comprehensive understanding of the physicochemical characteristics of water is essential for evaluating its availability and significance. The study area, located in northeastern Algeria, is characterized by intensive groundwater exploitation, particularly for agricultural activities. Therefore, assessing the quality and characteristics of this resource is crucial. This study aims to evaluate groundwater quality in the El Hadaiek aquifer using multivariate statistical methods and hydrogeochemical analyses, with a focus on identifying the contribution of major ions to groundwater mineralization.A systematic investigation of physicochemical parameters was conducted on collected water samples. The results were analyzed using hydrochemical methods, including the Piper diagram, to identify water facies, alongside multivariate statistical techniques. Principal Component Analysis (PCA), combined with varimax rotation, was applied to determine the main processes controlling water mineralization and to identify relationships among water samples. Additionally, the Saturation Index (SI) was calculated to identify the key geochemical reactions governing the system.The results indicate that groundwater in the study area is slightly acidic and highly mineralized. Most measured parameters remain within the limits established by the World Health Organization (WHO). The dominant hydrochemical facies is characterized by sulfate and chloride with calcium and magnesium (Ca–Mg–SO₄–Cl type). Two principal processes control groundwater mineralization: recharge through soil infiltration and water–rock interaction (the primary mechanism for major ion generation), with a lesser contribution from anthropogenic activities.
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