The assessment of microbiological and physicochemical characteristics in drainage waters of the Siriu dam

Abstract

Based on the balneotherapeutic applications of mineral spring water and particularly sulphurous water, the aim of our research was to study the physicochemical and microbiological parameters of some drainage waters of Siriu dam that showed a strong hydrogen sulphide odour. In addition, due to the corrosive effect of some groups of microorganisms, such as iron-oxidizing bacteria and sulphatereducing bacteria, the present paper also aimed to detect their presence in order to signal the need for some disinfection measures. According to physicochemical analysis, there has been found an external drain that is suitable for use in balneotherapy, presenting a balanced content of mineral elements such as sulphur, calcium, silicon, chlorine and potassium. However, due to the presence of potentially toxic phytoplankton microorganisms such as Microcystis sp. and Phormidium sp. it is necessary to disinfect this water source before using it for any purpose. On the other hand, the identification of both sulphate-reducing bacteria and iron-oxidizing bacteria in the drainage waters of Siriu dam should be considered as an alarm signal as they may lead to bio-corrosion and deterioration of metallic or concrete structures, affecting the integrity of the dam and hydropower constructions.