Hydrochemical investigation and influencing processes on aquifer quality in the Shiraz refinery area

Authors

1 Hydrogeology Department, Faculty of Geology, University of Tehran

2 School of Geology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Iran

3 Hydrogeology Department, Faculty of Geology,University of Tehran

4 Fars Regional Water Authority

Abstract

The Shiraz oil refinery was constructed in 1973, about 20 kilometers north of Shiraz city. The aquifer in the refinery area and its surrounding lands serves as a significant source of water for industrial and agricultural purposes in the region. This study investigates the hydrochemistry and influencing processes on groundwater chemistry in the area through sampling and analysis conducted in December 2021 and September 2022. Water temperature in the samples ranged from 19.1 to 25°C. The acidity of the samples showed little variation, ranging from 7.5 to 8.8. The electrical conductivity of the samples ranged from 321.7 to 2346 microsiemens per centimeter. Based on the Piper diagram, the dominant water types were calcium bicarbonate and calcium sulfate. The Pearson matrix showed strong positive correlations between cations and chloride ions, and negative correlations between bicarbonate and sulfate ions. The Gibbs diagram indicated water-rock interaction as the primary process influencing the groundwater chemistry of the region. Ionic and compositional ratio diagrams also suggested the dissolution of carbonate minerals and, to a lesser extent, evaporite minerals as the most important factors affecting the water chemistry of the area. The decrease in sulfate concentration in the water may be due to the activity of soil microorganisms in degrading hydrocarbon contamination.

Keywords

Files

History

  • Receive Date: 17 August 2024
  • Revise Date: 03 October 2024
  • Accept Date: 08 October 2024

Share

How to cite

Statistics