Determination of the Protective Capacity of the Aquitard Stratum in Some Coastline Towns of Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was aimed at determining the protective capacity of the aquitard stratum in some coastline locations in Delta State, Nigeria. This was carried out using the electrical resistivity method. A total of 13 vertical electrical soundings were conducted and data obtained were interpreted by partial curve matching and computer iterative technique. The result of the study show the presence of three to four geoelectric formations comprising top soil, sandy clay/clayey sand, fine sand and medium coarse sand. The aquitard resistivity ranged from 11.8 to 108.8 Ăm while the thickness ranged from 1.0 to 7.4 m. It can be concluded that the protective capacity of the aquitard in the area ranges from poor to moderate.

Keywords: Groundwater, Protective Capacity, Aquifer, Aquitard, Electrical Resistivity