Isotopic and geochemical methods for studying water–rock interaction and recharge mode: application to the Cenomanian–Turonian and Plio-Quaternary aquifers of Essaouira Basin, Morocco
Mohammed Bahir A , Salah Ouhamdouch A C and Paulà M. Carreira B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Laboratoire de Géosciences et Environnement (LGE), Département de Géologie, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Cadi Ayyad, BP 2400, Marrakech, Morocco.
B Instituto Tecnologico e Nuclear, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, PT-2686-953 Sacavém, Portugal.
C Corresponding author. Email: salah.ouhamdouch@edu.uca.ma
Marine and Freshwater Research 69(8) 1290-1300 https://doi.org/10.1071/MF17370
Submitted: 16 May 2017 Accepted: 17 January 2018 Published: 7 May 2018
Abstract
Study of the Cenomanian–Turonian and Plio–Quaternary aquifers of Essaouira basin (Western Morocco), based on the interpretation of geochemical (major elements) and isotopic (18O, 2H, 13C and 14C) data, has aided the understanding of the hydrodynamics of these aquifers, which is greatly affected by tectonics. Hydrochemical characteristics based on the bivariate diagrams of major ions (Cl–, SO42–, NO3–, HCO3–, Na+, Mg2+, K+ and Ca2+) and electrical conductivity and mineral saturation indices indicate that the origins of groundwater mineralisation are the result of: (1) evaporite dissolution; (2) cation exchange reactions; (3) and evaporation processes. Radiogenic isotopes (3H and 14C) have highlighted the presence of significant recent recharge in the eastern part of the basin, with groundwater moving according to the general flow path (south-east to north-west). Stable isotope data from the Essaouira basin plot along the Global Meteoric Water Line and below the Local Meteoric Water Line. This suggests that groundwater has been recharged under several different climate regimes.
Additional keywords: geochemistry, semi-arid area, stable isotopes, water resources.
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