Small scale study of groundwater flow in a fractured carbonate-rock aquifer at the St-Eustache quarry, Québec, Canada

A small-scale hydrogeological study was conducted in a fractured carbonate-rock aquifer located in a quarry to relate groundwater flow to the fracture network. The field study in the St-Eustache quarry, which integrates structural surveys, well logging and hydraulic tests, showed that the most important features that affect groundwater flow in the sedimentary aquifer are high hydraulic conductivity horizontal bedding planes. Vertical fractures are abundant in the quarry and throughout the region, but they have a minor effect on groundwater flow. To have a significant impact on the flow regime and lead to vertical groundwater flow, the permeability of all vertical joints need to be enhanced compared to what was generally observed at the site. Such an increase in permeability could potentially occur where dissolution and fracturing is more intense or at stress release locations such as near the surface in the quarry.     

Integrating geophysical and hydrochemical borehole-log measurements to characterize the Chalk aquifer, Berkshire, United Kingdom

Geophysical and hydrochemical borehole-logging techniques were integrated to characterize hydraulic and hydrogeochemical properties of the Chalk aquifer at boreholes in Berkshire, UK. The down-hole measurements were made to locate fissures in the chalk, their spatial extent between boreholes, and to determine the groundwater chemical quality of the water-bearing layers. The geophysical borehole logging methods used were caliper, focused resistivity, induction resistivity, gamma ray, fluid temperature, fluid electrical conductivity, impeller and heat-pulse flowmeter, together with borehole wall optical-imaging. A multiparameter data transmitter was used to measure groundwater temperature, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and redox potential of the borehole fluid down-hole. High permeability developed at the Chalk Rock by groundwater circulation provides the major flow horizon at the Banterwick Barn study site and represents a conduit system that serves as an effective local hydraulic connection between the boreholes. The Chalk Rock includes several lithified solution-ridden layers, hardgrounds, which imply a gap in sedimentation possibly representing an unconformity. Lower groundwater temperature, high dissolved-oxygen content, and flowmeter evidence of preferential groundwater flow in the Chalk Rock indicated rapid groundwater circulation along this horizon. By repeating the logging at different times of the year under changing hydraulic conditions, other water-inflow horizons within the Chalk aquifer were recognized. Electronic Publication     

The influence of Cenozoic tectonics on the groundwater-production capacity of fractured zones: a case study in Sao Paulo, Brazil

A new procedure is developed to correlate structural lineaments recognised through air-photo interpretation with subsurface fracture features that are associated with zones of high groundwater production in fractured-rock environments. The analysis approach is referred to as the homogeneous tectonic domain (HTD) method and involves correlating the lineament features of a given area with the orientation of the primary stress fields and fracture structures associated with the recent tectonic history that affected the region of study. The main premise of the method is that the most recent tectonic events in a given area have had the most significant influence on the nature of the existing fracture network and subsequently on the regional groundwater flow characteristics. A study site was selected within the state of S?o Paulo, Brazil, where a complex tectonic history dating back to Precambrian time has generated significant fracture porosity in the bedrock environment. The bedrock is heavily used in this area as a domestic and industrial aquifer. The most recent tectonic activity is associated with five distinct Cenozoic events that generated fracture features through both shear and extension stress fields. Due to the mode of formation, fracture zones generated by extension tend to have the largest effective apertures and are the most conductive to groundwater. By applying the HTD method in a series of test areas where specific Cenozoic events were dominant, fracture trends generated by shear and extension mechanisms could be identified. Water-well production capacity was correlated with proximity to extension-type structures in most cases. Other factors, such as the type of rock the well was completed in, had a much weaker influence on well capacity. Through this application, the HTD approach is shown to provide a methodology for delineating fractured areas within rock environments that have high potential for groundwater-resource development by combining classical lineament analysis with a clear understanding of the tectonic history of a given area. Electronic Publication     

Modes,hydrodynamic processes and ecological impacts exerted by river–groundwater transformation in Junggar Basin,China

The hydrodynamic processes and impacts exerted by river–groundwater transformation need to be studied at regional and catchment scale, especially with respect to diverse geology and lithology. This work adopted an integrated method to study four typical modes (characterized primarily by lithology, flow subsystems, and gaining/losing river status) and the associated hydrodynamic processes and ecological impacts in the southern part of Junggar Basin, China. River–groundwater transformation occurs one to four times along the basin route. For mode classification, such transformation occurs: once or twice, controlled by lithological factors (mode 1); twice, impacted by geomorphic features and lithological structures (mode 2); and three or four times, controlled by both geological and lithological structures (modes 3 and 4). Results also suggest: (1) there exist local and regional groundwater flow subsystems at ~400 m depth, which form a multistage nested groundwater flow system. The groundwater flow velocities are 0.1–1.0 and?<0.1 m/day for each of two subsystems; (2) the primary groundwater hydro-chemical type takes on apparent horizontal and vertical zoning characteristics, and the TDS of the groundwater evidently increases along the direction of groundwater flow, driven by hydrodynamic processes; (3) the streams, wetland and terminal lakes are the end-points of the local and regional groundwater flow systems. This work indicates that not only are groundwater and river water derived from the same source, but also hydrodynamic and hydro-chemical processes and ecological effects, as a whole in arid areas, are controlled by stream–groundwater transformation.     

Upscaling equivalent hydrofacies simulation based on borehole data generalization and transition probability geostatistics

The heterogeneity of hydrofacies is represented as spatial variability on different scales, and it has a significant impact on the behavior of groundwater flow and pollutant transport. However, effectively characterizing hydrofacies heterogeneity on different scales remains one of the most challenging problems in hydrogeology. In this study, an upscaling hydrofacies simulation (UHS) framework is proposed by integrating the upscaling borehole generalization (UBG) approach and transition probability geostatistics (TPG). A new UBG approach for generating virtual boreholes with equivalent hydrofacies information based on relatively high-density borehole lithological data is proposed, and the TPG is used to delineate the multiscale facies distribution. The results show that the UBG approach can significantly reduce borehole data volume while retaining the key equivalent hydrofacies information on a coarser scale. The UHS method can well characterize the overall distribution of equivalent hydrofacies on coarser scales, with the minor-component hydrofacies underestimated and the major-component hydrofacies overestimated to a lesser extent, and more equivalent facies appearing in strong heterogeneous areas. These results demonstrate that the UHS method can provide valuable capacity insights and advantages in characterizing hydrofacies heterogeneity on different scales using such high-density borehole lithological data.

     

A statistical approach in investigating the hydrogeological significance of remotely sensed lineaments in the crystalline mountainous terrain of the island of Naxos, Greece

A map indicating zones related to groundwater on the mountainous terrain of the island of Naxos, Greece, was produced, using statistics, remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques. Naxos mainly consists of polydeformed and polymetamorphosed crystalline formations where groundwater is restricted to secondary porosity; its movement is erratic and occurs along lithological contacts, solution openings, faults and fractures. As in the most central Aegean islands, water in Naxos is a scarce commodity. Many dry holes have been drilled. It is known that in areas of such geology, linear features may play a significant role in their hydrogeological regime. Various lineaments’ directional properties were calculated and statistically tested against collected spring data using GIS techniques in an attempt to evaluate the hydrogeological significance of remotely sensed lineaments. Based on the results achieved, a map was prepared to contribute to conventional ground surveys in the selection of drilling sites. The reliability of the map was tested with existing borehole data. The results obtained encourage the use of statistical analysis on remotely sensed lineaments for groundwater targeting studies in crystalline mountainous areas.     

Delineation of groundwater potential zone in Chhatna Block, Bankura District, West Bengal, India using remote sensing and GIS techniques

Groundwater is one of the most valuable natural resources, which is an immensely important and dependable source of water supply in all climatic regions over the world. Groundwater is in demand in areas where surface water supply is inadequate and nonsexist in the Chhatna Block, Bankura district and is located on the eastern slope of Chotonagpur Plateau, which is mapped on 73 I/15, 73 I/16 and 73 M/3, and falls between latitude 23°10′–23°30′N and longitude 86°47′–87°02′E. It represents plain land and gentle slope, which is responsible for infiltration and groundwater recharge. The groundwater in this region is confined within the fracture zones and weathered residuum. The present investigation is, therefore, undertaken to delineate potential zones for groundwater development with the help of a remote-sensing study. IRS–LISS-III data along with other data sets, e.g., existing toposheets and field observation data, have been utilized to extract information on the hydrogeomorphic features which include valley fills, buried pediment moderate, buried pediment shallow and structural hills, lineament density contour and slope map of this hard rock terrain. The target of this study is to delineate the groundwater potential zones in Chhatna block, Bankura District, West Bengal. Satellite imagery, along with other data sets, has been utilized to extract information on the groundwater controlling features of this study area. Three features (hydrogeomorphology, slope, and lineaments) that influence groundwater occurrences were analyzed and integrated. All the information layers have been integrated through GIS analysis and the groundwater potential zones have been delineated. The weighted index overlay method has been followed to delineate groundwater potential zones. The results indicate that good to excellent groundwater potential zones are available in almost the entire block. The results show that there is good agreement between the predicted groundwater potential map and the existing groundwater borehole databases. The area is characterized by hard rock terrain—still due to the presence of planation surface along valley fills; it became the prospective zone. The area has been categorized into four distinct zones: excellent, good, fair and poor. Excellent groundwater potential zones constitute 30–35 % of the total block area; good groundwater potential zones occupy a majority of the block, covering approximately 55–60 % and the fair potential zones occupy about 10–15 % of the total block. Poor potential zones occupy a very insignificant portion (less than 1 %).     

Delineation of capture zones for municipal wells in fractured dolomite, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, USA

A wellhead protection study for the city of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, USA, demonstrates the necessity of combining detailed hydrostratigraphic analysis with groundwater modeling to delineate zones of contribution for municipal wells in a fractured dolomite aquifer. A numerical model (MODFLOW) was combined with a particle tracking code (MODPATH) to simulate the regional groundwater system and to delineate capture zones for municipal wells. The hydrostratigraphic model included vertical and horizontal fractures and high-permeability zones. Correlating stratigraphic interpretations with field data such as geophysical logs, packer tests, and fracture mapping resulted in the construction of a numerical model with five high-permeability zones related to bedding planes or facies changes. These zones serve as major conduits for horizontal groundwater flow. Dipping fracture zones were simulated as thin high-permeability layers. The locations of exposed bedrock and surficial karst features were used to identify areas of enhanced recharge. Model results show the vulnerability of the municipal wells to pollution. Capture zones for the wells extend several kilometers north and south from the city. Travel times from recharge areas to all wells were generally less than one year. The high seasonal variability of recharge in the study area made the use of a transient model necessary. Electronic Publication     

Integrated methods and scenario development for urban groundwater management and protection during tunnel road construction: a case study of urban hydrogeology in the city of Basel,Switzerland

In the northwestern area of Basel, Switzerland, a tunnel highway connects the French highway A35 (Mulhouse–Basel) with the Swiss A2 (Basel–Gotthard–Milano). The subsurface highway construction was associated with significant impacts on the urban groundwater system. Parts of this area were formerly contaminated by industrial wastes, and groundwater resources are extensively used by industry. During some construction phases, considerable groundwater drawdown was necessary, leading to major changes in the groundwater flow regime. Sufficient groundwater supply for industrial users and possible groundwater pollution due to interactions with contaminated areas had to be taken into account. A groundwater management system is presented, comprising extensive groundwater monitoring, high-resolution numerical groundwater modeling, and the development and evaluation of different scenarios. This integrated approach facilitated the evaluation of the sum of impacts, and their interaction in time and space with changing hydrological boundary conditions. For all project phases, changes of the groundwater system had to be evaluated in terms of the various goals and requirements. Although the results of this study are case-specific, the overall conceptual approach and methodologies applied may be directly transferred to other urban areas.     

地表暖化影响下温度示踪地下水流速方法

为构建温度示踪方法测算地下水流速技术体系,并应用于区域地下水资源评价,基于最小二乘法和垂向一维非稳定流水-热运移方程数值解法,提出地表暖化情形下地下水流速计算方法,并对雷州半岛东北部地下水流速进行测算。结果表明:研究区域地下水补给速度为0.796m/a,入渗以西北部降水和运河渗漏为主;地下水排泄速度为0.269m/a,排泄入海主要发生在东海岛、南三岛和硵州岛附近。温度示踪解析区域地下水流动情况与地下水位分布情况基本一致,观测和计算地温数据具有较强相关性(R^2>0.50)和较低均方根误差(均值0.748),表明提出方法率定得到的地下水流速具有较强的可靠性。参数敏感性分析结果表明,地质体热扩散率和地表温度均对地温计算结果产生较明显的影响,参数的准确率定对利用地温计算地下水流速十分重要。     

呼和浩特盆地地下水流系统变异机制及其资源效应

几十年的高强度开采致使呼和浩特盆地地下水流系统发生了很大变化。在对含水系统结构特征分析的基础上,结合地下水流场及水位动态特征,对地下水流系统演化模式进行了分析总结,基本可归纳为3个演化阶段,地下水人工开采及沟谷水利工程的修建是地下流系统变异的主要驱动因子。采用均衡法对现状条件下地下水均衡情况进行了定量计算,通过与历史时期均衡情况对比分析,发现在不同水流系统演化阶段,各含水层地下水补排量差异较大,从而导致地下水资源量发生变化,与历史时期相比,潜水含水层资源量明显减小,承压含水层资源量有所增加,但总资源量一定程度减小,地下流系统变异的资源效应明显。     

基于分布式光纤温度示踪探测裂隙岩体地下水渗流特征

认识深部裂隙岩体中的地下水渗流特征(流速、渗流路径等),是深部地质工程开发建设的重要前提。近年来,分布式光纤测温技术作为识别深部裂隙岩体地下水渗流特征的有效方法,在国外开展了大量的研究,但在国内鲜少见在实际场地开展的相关工作。本研究以我国首个地下实验室场址甘肃北山新场花岗岩岩体中的两个钻孔(BSQ02及BSQ03)为试验对象,开展基于分布式光纤测温(Fiber-Optic Distributed Temperature Sensing,FO-DTS)的现场温度-水力试验,实现了对钻孔地下水温度的高精度、连续性观测。通过分析现场试验获取的钻孔温度-深度剖面随时间的变化,推断BSQ02在试验过程中存在外源地下水的流入,然后结合钻孔柱状图对钻孔中的入流导水裂隙进行了定位;基于现场观测数据建立了钻孔的渗流-传热耦合数值模型,反演估算出钻孔中地下水平均流速为0.01 m·s-1,通过裂隙流入地下水温度小于钻孔中原地下水温度,两者之间的温度差为0.7 ℃,通过裂隙流入的地下水流速为1×10-5 m·s-1,获取了地下水的渗流特征。该项工作可为基于分布式光纤测温技术的裂隙介质地下水渗流规律研究提供借鉴与指导。     

Assessment of alluvial aquifer heterogeneity and development of stochastic hydrofacies models for the Hat Yai Basin in Southern Thailand

In previous studies, the groundwater flow models formulated for the Hat Yai Basin were conventional and deterministic because the geologic heterogeneity of the alluvial aquifer system in the basin had not yet been assessed. This paper describes an effort to develop hydrofacies models, such that the spatial variability of the aquifer system can be represented in a systematic way. Variogram parameters that characterize the alluvial aquifer heterogeneity were determined. Based on these variogram parameters, an indicator-based geostatistical approach was used to develop hydrofacies models using sequential indicator simulation. The hydrofacies models indicate three distinct aquifer units, namely Hat Yai, Khu Tao, and Kho Hong aquifers, which is in good agreement with a conceptual model, and incorporates spatial variability as observed in field data from borehole logs. The hydrofacies models can be used in groundwater modeling and simulations.     

Regional-scale airborne electromagnetic surveying of the Yucatan karst aquifer (Mexico): geological and hydrogeological interpretation

Geometry and connectivity of high-permeability zones determine groundwater flow in karst aquifers. Efficient management of karst aquifers requires regional mapping of preferential flow paths. Remote-sensing technology provides tools to efficiently map the subsurface at such scales. Multi-spectral remote sensing imagery, shuttle radar topography data and frequency-domain airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey data were used to map karst-aquifer structure on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Anomalous AEM responses correlated with topographic features and anomalous spectral reflectance of the terrain. One known preferential flow path, the Holbox fracture zone, showed lower bulk electrical resistivity than its surroundings in the AEM surveys. Anomalous structures delineated inland were sealed above by a low-resistivity layer (resistivity: 1–5 Ωm, thickness: 5–6?m). This layer was interpreted as ejecta from the Chicxulub impact (Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary), based on similar resistivity signatures found in borehole logs. Due to limited sensitivity of the AEM survey, the subsurface configuration beneath the low-resistivity layer could not be unambiguously determined. AEM measurements combined with remote-sensing data analysis provide a potentially powerful multi-scale methodology for structural mapping in karst aquifers on the Yucatan Peninsula and beyond.     

Analysis of flow processes in fractured chalk under pumped and ambient conditions (UK)

An integrated set of different measurements has been used to study the behavior of groundwater in an observation well in a fractured rock formation, the UK Chalk, under pumped and ambient conditions. Under pumped conditions, the response of the open borehole was relatively straightforward with flow mainly concentrated along four discrete flow horizons. Furthermore, excellent correspondence was observed between the three methods of borehole flow velocity measurement: impeller flowmeter, heat-pulse flowmeter and dilution testing. Under ambient conditions, the system appeared more complicated. Specifically, in the upper half of the borehole, the impeller flowmeter exhibited substantial downward flow and the heat-pulse flowmeter exhibited almost negligible upward flow, whilst dilution testing indicated significant dilution. It was concluded that this was due to cross-flow occurring over the upper 29 m. Analysis of drawdown data, recovery data and a Drost analysis of the ambient cross-flow data yielded aquifer transmissivity estimates of 2,049, 2,928 and > 4,388 m²/day respectively. The discrepancy between the drawdown and recovery estimates was attributed to non-linear head-losses associated with turbulence and inertial effects. The difference between the pumping test and Drost results was explained by the flow during the pumping test bypassing this aforementioned 29 m region of rock.     

The typology of Irish hard-rock aquifers based on an integrated hydrogeological and geophysical approach

Groundwater flow in hard-rock aquifers is strongly controlled by the characteristics and distribution of structural heterogeneity. A methodology for catchment-scale characterisation is presented, based on the integration of complementary, multi-scale hydrogeological, geophysical and geological approaches. This was applied to three contrasting catchments underlain by metamorphic rocks in the northern parts of Ireland (Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, UK). Cross-validated surface and borehole geophysical investigations confirm the discontinuous overburden, lithological compartmentalisation of the bedrock and important spatial variations of the weathered bedrock profiles at macro-scale. Fracture analysis suggests that the recent (Alpine) tectonic fabric exerts strong control on the internal aquifer structure at meso-scale, which is likely to impact on the anisotropy of aquifer properties. The combination of the interpretation of depth-specific hydraulic-test data with the structural information provided by geophysical tests allows characterisation of the hydrodynamic properties of the identified aquifer units. Regionally, the distribution of hydraulic conductivities can be described by inverse power laws specific to the aquifer litho-type. Observed groundwater flow directions reflect this multi-scale structure. The proposed integrated approach applies widely available investigative tools to identify key dominant structures controlling groundwater flow, characterising the aquifer type for each catchment and resolving the spatial distribution of relevant aquifer units and associated hydrodynamic parameters.     

岩溶介质非均质性对钻孔水物化指标垂向变化的影响

岩溶介质具有较强的非均质性,其地表及地下的岩溶结构形态多样。通过对钻孔结构描述、钻孔水物化性质分析,不仅能够掌握区域上岩溶含水层的结构特征,而且对于岩溶地下水演化过程的揭示亦有重要作用。文章以桂林岩溶水文地质试验场西南部峰丛山区与峰林平原交界处的钻孔为例,通过野外便携式多参数仪原位测试钻孔垂向水物化指标（pH值、水温T、电导率EC）,探索浅部（地面以下约50 m内）地下岩溶较为发育条件下钻孔水物化指标的垂向变化特征,揭示岩溶介质非均质性对钻孔垂向水物化指标的影响。结果表明:岩溶地区小范围内不同钻孔间的水物化性质有所差异,且岩溶发育相似的钻孔（如ZK4/ZK5、ZK7/ZK8）,其水物化指标垂向变化具有一定的相似性,但不同指标（T、pH、EC）的变化幅度存在差异;钻孔水物化性质受到试验场区岩溶介质结构非均质性的控制,即岩溶介质结构影响了地下水的赋存条件和水力联系而导致水物化性质的差异;在对岩溶地区地下水物化性质进行研究时应充分考虑岩溶介质的非均质性特征,根据实际的水文地质条件选取具有代表性的钻孔含水段进行取样和监测。      

Assessment of the spatial and temporal hydrochemical facies variation in the flood plains of North-West Delhi using integrated approach

Assessment of change in major ion chemistry of groundwater, manifested by hydrochemical facies, is a necessity for sustainable use of the groundwater resources. In this perspective, this article estimates spatial and temporal hydrochemical facies variation in the study area using an integrated approach. The geochemical, isotopic and sedimentary data from the North West Delhi has been used to achieve the objective of the study. It is seen that the spatial groundwater facies variation in the study area correlates with the change in geomorphologic units. Distinct hydrochemical facies for younger and older alluvial plains has been observed. It is seen that geomorphic features such as palaeochannels also influence the groundwater quality of the study area. Further, the temporal hydrochemical facies variations indicate that with time, anthropogenic factors have also impacted the evolution of facies in the study area .     

Morphotectonic controls of groundwater flow regime and relating environmental impacts in Northwest Sinai,Egypt

The frequent appearance of some hydro-environmental hazard features, such as waterlogging and soil salinization along the susceptible zones at Northwest Sinai area (NWSA), has put serious challenges and obstacles for a correct and efficient land use planning of this region, for several decades. Although previous studies have shown that the whole region of Northern Sinai is greatly affected by the tectonic movements associated with the Syrian Arc folding system (SAS), NWSA is barren of any obvious surficial structures. The current work aims to investigate the effect of subsurface tectonic features on the hydrogeologic regime of NWSA.Hydrogeological and remote sensing data were integrated with ground geophysical gravity and magnetic measurements, using the geographic information system. Data integration asserts the role played by buried tectonic features not only in governing the landforms of the upper water-bearing quaternary formations but also in controlling their flow regime.Two major subsurface structures were identified through interpreting the geophysical measurements. A buried dome-like structure, dominating the central part of the mapped area, coincides with the radial flow pattern observed on the water table map. At the southwestern corner of the study area, an elevated groundwater level, caused by continuous groundwater accumulation at the discharge boundary, is superimposing a subsurface block-faulted depression. The waterlogging features (saturation of the soil by groundwater and inundation of local depressions due to rising of water table) dominating the discharge lowlands of NWSA support the conclusion that a buried block-faulted structure exerts a strong influence on the thickness and groundwater flow regime of the shallow quaternary aquifer.     

Deterministic modelling of the cumulative impacts of underground structures on urban groundwater flow and the definition of a potential state of urban groundwater flow: example of Lyon,France

Underground structures have been shown to have a great influence on subsoil resources in urban aquifers. A methodology to assess the actual and the potential state of the groundwater flow in an urban area is proposed. The study develops a three-dimensional modeling approach to understand the cumulative impacts of underground infrastructures on urban groundwater flow, using a case in the city of Lyon (France). All known underground structures were integrated in the numerical model. Several simulations were run: the actual state of groundwater flow, the potential state of groundwater flow (without underground structures), an intermediate state (without impervious structures), and a transient simulation of the actual state of groundwater flow. The results show that underground structures fragment groundwater flow systems leading to a modification of the aquifer regime. For the case studied, the flow systems are shown to be stable over time with a transient simulation. Structures with drainage systems are shown to have a major impact on flow systems. The barrier effect of impervious structures was negligible because of the small hydraulic gradient of the area. The study demonstrates that the definition of a potential urban groundwater flow and the depiction of urban flow systems, which involves understanding the impact of underground structures, are important issues with respect to urban underground planning.