Classification of the transmissivity spatial variations of Quaternary aquifer in the semi-arid Region Khanasser Valley, Northern Syria

Abstract

A methodology of statistical testing and Krasny transmissivity classification is used to assess the transmissivity variations and the distribution of the groundwater supply potential of the region of the Khanasser valley in northern Syria. The subsurface stratification and the characterisation of the litho-textural characteristics of the Quaternary aquifer of semi-arid environment in the region of Khanasser valley are also described. The quantitative interpretative results of the -thirty-four vertical electrical soundings (VES) points distributed in the valley reveal the spatial variations of the different electrical and hydraulic parameters. The Quaternary aquifer's resistivity varies between 4.3 Ω m and 43 Ω m; its thickness ranges between 4.5 m and 59 m. This aquifer has a hydraulic conductivity that varies between 2.65 m/day and 39.93 m/day. The effective porosity values vary between 29.88% and 42.1%. The transmissivity values vary between 79 m2/day and 814 m2/day. The transmissivity index “Y" ranges between 5.91 and 6.93. The results from transmissivity analysis based on the statistical testing show that 70.6% of the interpreted VES points are related to background transmissivity, 14.70% of VES points are related to a positive anomaly, 5.9% of VES points are related to a negative anomaly, 5.9% of VES points are related to extreme negative anomalies, and 3% VES points are related to extreme positive anomalies. The transmissivity classification analysis using Krasnys classification system reveals that the study aquifer in the region of Khanasser valley represents a small transmissivity variation and slightly heterogeneous hydrogeological environment. The methodology applied in this paper is oriented towards locating new sites for the drilling of productive wells and helping in the development and management of groundwater exploration and exploitation. The new application of such described integrated methodology proves its efficacy and could be therefore practiced in other semi-arid region worldwide.