Combining multiple isotope and noble gas data with seismic profiles in an interpretation of hydro-geochemical anomalies

Abstract

Environmental isotopes (δ18O, δD, δ13C, 14C, 87Sr/86Sr), combined with hydrogeochemical data and seismic profile interpretation, have been used in studying regional groundwater flow systems in the Pannonian Basin. An interpretation of seismic profiles indicates the existence of faults systems, some of them being traceable from the Pre-Cenozoic basement up to near-surface Quaternary sediments. The Lakitelek study area shows high He contents (22 to 25 %) of mantle origin, where fault lines might have been reactivated during recent geological times and facilitated the occurrence of mantle-derived He in the groundwater. The Mezőtúr study area, where most H- and O-isotope compositions are shifted from the global meteoric water line, exhibits 7.6 to 10.6 % He of mantle origin,. The deepest sample indicates mixing with formation waters. Here basement faults might not have been reactivated, since they do not seem to have an active role on the groundwater composition and effects of the regional flow system seem to be the dominant factor determining the groundwater isotope compositions.