Influence of volcanic activity on spring water chemistry at Popocatepetl Volcano, Mexico

Abstract

The results of the 7 years (1994–2000) of monthly monitoring of spring water before and during eruptions show response to volcanic activity. Low salinity and temperature characterize most of the springs, which are located on the flanks of Popocatepetl Volcano. The pH ranges from 5.8 to 7.8 and temperature from 3 to 36 °C. Oxygen and hydrogen isotopic data show that the water is of meteoric origin, but SO 4 2−, Cl −, F −, HCO 3 −, B, and SO 4 2−/Cl − variations precede main eruptive activity, which is considered linked to influx of magmatic gases and acid fluids that react with sublimates and host rock and mix with the large water system. Na +, Ca 2+, SiO 2 and Mg 2+ concentrations in the water also increased before eruptive activity. The computed partial pressure of CO 2 in equilibrium with spring waters shows values higher than air-saturated water (ASW), with the highest values up to 0.73 bar of pCO 2. Boron is detected in the water only preceding the larger eruptions. When present, boron concentration is normally under health standard limits, but in two cases the concentration was slightly above. Other components are within health standard limits, except for F − in one spring.