Study of some physicochemical properties of hot springs water in Shara’a and Kirsh, Lahj Governorate-Yemen

Abstract

This research aims at determining some of the physicochemical properties of hot springs in the areas of (Shara’a and Kirsh) Lahij Governorate. 45 samples were collected for 15 sites. The following parameters were measured: acidity number (pH), total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH), Calcium Hardness (TH.Ca), Magnesium Hardness (TH.Mg), Alkalinity, Calcium (Ca2+), Magnesium (Mg2+), Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Bicarbonate (HCO3-), Sulfate (SO42-), Nitrate (NO3-), Fluoride (F-), Chloride, and (Cl-), Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR). The results showed that the values of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Alkalinity, Sodium, Potassium, Sulfate and Fluoride were higher than the maximum allowable limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) for drinking water by 100%, while the concentration of Chloride in Krish area and alkalinity in Shara'a area exceeded WHO limits by 100%. As for the rest of the parameters, they were less than the permissible limit according to the standard specifications. Also, the results showed that the water of Shara'a and Kirsh hot springs has temperatures (oC) of 60 and 62.5 respectively. The waters from the hot springs in Shara'a and Krish are thus not fit for human consumption. The study recommends the use of hot spring water for recreational purposes should be closely monitored. It is thus important that the physical and chemical composition of hot springs should be monitored on a regular basis. Finally, the study recommends a comprehensive study of the chemical and therapeutic properties of hot springs water, as well as the geological characteristics of the study area.