Chemical characterization of the Neogene Aquifer, Belgium

Abstract

The evolution of groundwater chemistry along the direction of groundwater flow was studied using hydrochemical data from samples collected along a flow line in the Neogene Aquifer, Belgium. Infiltrating water was found to have a very low mineral content and low pH because the sediments are strongly decalcified. Increasing SiO2 and cation concentrations along the groundwater flow line indicate silicate-weathering processes, confirmed with the aid of saturation indices, calculated with PHREEQC, and stability diagrams. A classification system based on redox sensitive species was developed and shows that an extensive redox sequence is present in the aquifer. At a shallow depth, pyrite oxidation has caused an increase in sulphate, while iron is precipitated as hydroxides. Elevated arsenic concentrations are related to the reduction of these iron hydroxides at a relatively shallow depth and to the dissolution of siderite at greater depth. Dissolution of carbonate in the aquifer material, present in deep layers and to the north, has lead to increased Ca2+ and HCO3 − concentrations. The Ca2+ from the groundwater is exchanged for Na+, Mg2+ and K+ adsorbed to the clay surfaces at the bottom of the groundwater reservoir. Although the Neogene Aquifer is well flushed, there are still some marine influences present in the deepest parts.