Geochemical processes controlling fluoride-bearing groundwater in the granitic aquifer of a semi-arid region

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to identify the geochemical processes responsible for higher fluoride (F–) content in the groundwater of the Yellareddigudem watershed located in Nalgonda district, Andhra Pradesh. The basement rocks in the study area comprise mainly of granites (pink and grey varieties), which contain F-bearing minerals (fluorite, biotite and hornblende). The results of the study area suggest that the groundwater is characterized by Na+: HCO facies. The F– content varies from 0.42 to 7.50 mg/L. In about 68% of the collected groundwater samples, the concentration of F– exceeds the national drinking water quality limit of 1.5 mg/L. The weathering of the granitic rocks causes the release of Na+ and HCO ions, which increase the solubility of ions. Ion exchange between Na+ and Ca2+, and precipitation of CaCO3 reduce the activity of Ca2+. This favours dissolution of CaF2 from the F-bearing minerals present in the host rocks, leading to a higher concentration of F– in the groundwater. The study further suggests that the spatial variation in the F– content appears to be caused by difference in the relative occurrence of F-bearing minerals, the degree of rockweathering and fracturing, the residence time of water in the aquifer materials and the associated geochemical processes. The study emphasizes the need for appropriate management measures to mitigate the effect of higher F groundwater on human health.