Study of the physico-chemical quality of the groundwater of the lower Devonian aquifer in the Illizi region (Algeria)

Abstract

This study’s main objective is to diagnose groundwater quality in the Illizi region. The physical-chemical quality analysis included 10 samples from various Devonian aquifers mined in the area, used for human consumption. The results obtained showed that the water in the limestone aquifer has a better quality than that of the other aquifers (Devonian). This relates more specifically to pH, conductivity (mineralization), total hardness and the concentration of major elements, and that there was an excess of nitrate, manganese, and ammonia. This can probably be due to the proximity of agricultural land as well as industrial areas in the case of a few boreholes. To this end, ongoing assessment of water quality is imperative and treatment to reduce the deterioration of water quality and eliminate health problems may be necessary.