Longitudinal Unit Conductance Research Articles

Mapping of Aquifer Characteristics and Reservoir Protective Capacity Variation in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, Ogun State South-West Nigeria

Variation of Aquifer potential characteristics and its impacts on the groundwater subsurface protection of the aquiferous zone using electrical resistivity method was carried out at Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, Ogun State South-West Nigeria with the principal purpose of assessing and rating aquifer protective capacity of the overburden units in the area. Twenty seven (27) vertical electrical sounding (VES) were conducted using Schlumberger configuration with the maximum electrode spacing of 100m at each point using Allied OMHEGA Resistivity meter. The data were interpreted using partial curve matching techniques and computer iteration program using WINRESIST. Parameters such as aquifer resistivity, aquifer thickness, overburden thickness, bedrock resistivity, reflection coefficient and longitudinal unit conductance were calculated and used for evaluating the groundwater yields and vulnerability of the aquiferous zone to contaminant seepages. The range of reflection coefficient is found to be between 0.02 and 0.98 while that of the protective capacity is between 0.00135 and 0.510. Groundwater potentials of the area were categorized as being high (overburden thickness 13m and reflection coefficient less than 0.8); medium (overburden thickness 13m and with reflection coefficient 0.8) and low (overburden thickness < 13m and reflection coefficient. Also, the study area shows a very poor, poor, and moderate protective capacity rating. Seven (7) VES stations have very poor protective capacity, eighteen (18) VES stations shows poor protective capacity and only two (2) VES stations shows a moderate protective capacity rating. Since the illustration the longitudinal conductance revealed the impermeability of the confining layers which is generally ˂ 1.0 Siemens; values ˃1.0 Siemens which indicates zones in which the confined aquifer is subject to protection by the overlying formation materials; these revelations in the study area were possible indications that the groundwater quality status may have been impaired which necessitated the urgent need for the groundwater to be randomly...

Multi-criteria groundwater potential zonation using GIS-based fuzzified AHP: Case study of Ondo metropolis Southwestern Nigeria

The study utilized the fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (F-AHP) in the multicriteria decision analysis of seven important hydrogeologic parameters associated with groundwater potentiality/yield. The purpose was to develop groundwater potential map using groundwater potential index values (GWPIV) for Ondo metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria. The hydrogeologic parameters were prioritize and assigned different weights hierarchically according to their level of importance using F-AHP, as aquifer layer thickness (0.05), aquifer layer resistivity (0.04), overburden thickness (0.12), transverse resistance (0.18), transmissivity (0.32), coefficient of anisotropy (0.25), and formation factor (0.03). From regional perspective, based on drainage basin, and river network, the region was categorized to be of low/moderate groundwater yield, with moderate to high flow connectivity. The higher and lower elevations are generally remarkable in the northern and southern areas respectively, hence possibility of movement of water towards the southern part with the northern forming the watershed. Furthermore, the longitudinal unit conductance recorded regional average value of 1.168, while 1.20, 1.16, and 1.10 were recorded for granite, gneiss and migmatite, which suggests moderate vulnerability to contamination. The average values recorded for overburden thickness, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, transverse resistance, formation factor, coefficient of anisotropy, fracture contrast, and reflection coefficient are 22.5 m, 0.33 m/d, 5.56 m2/d, 4966 ohm-m2, 2.42, 1.17, 15.3, and 0.66 respectively. The water table aquifer and the fractured basement are the major water bearing units in the area; while the geological units showed overlapping hydrogeologic properties. The obtained GWPIV ranged from 1.21 to 3.55 with regional average of 1.86, suggesting a moderate potential. Nevertheless, the southern part showed more propensity/yield than the northern area. The study showed the importance of geospatial mapping technique, involving fuzzy analytical hierarchical process, in groundwater evaluation, as it was able to solve and obtain different hydrogeological parameters, which were integrated to prioritize and define the area's groundwater prolificacy for the purpose of improving, expanding, and management of the existing water scheme in the study area.

Groundwater Prediction Analysis for Sustainable Development in Okeigbo, Southwestern Nigeria: A GIS supported AHP Approach

Multi-criteria decision analysis with GIS-supported Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) has been undertaken in Okeigbo, Southwestern Nigeria to predict the hydrogeologic significance of the aquifers and in relation to the geologic units; quartzite, quartz schist, and metadiorite. Six parameters of higher hydrogeologic importance were pairwise and weighted respectively: AQT-aquifer layer thickness (0.07), AQR-aquifer layer resistivity (0.16), OVT-overburden thickness (0.10), TR-transverse resistance (0.20), TMY-transmissivity (0.26), CoA-coefficient of anisotropy (0.22). Subsequently, the GWPIV ranged from metadiorite 1.08 (weathered/fracture aquifer)–quartz schist 3.55 (weathered aquifer) with an average of 2.35 indicating moderate groundwater potential. The low, moderate, and high zones constituted 25%, 55%, and 20% respectively of the study area. The high potential zone is prominent in the mid-central and north central parts. Conclusively, the quartz schist and quartzite areas showed better prolificacy than metadioritic environment. But in terms of protective capacity of the aquifers, the longitudinal unit conductance recorded weak regional average of 0.19396 mhos, with quartzite (0.33444 mhos) and quartz schist (0.15218 mhos); and metadiorite recorded 0.1208 mhos, hence metadiorite being the most vulnerable environment. The water table aquifer and the fracture basement are the major water bearing units in the area. The drainage basin falls within the low–moderate regional drainage basins, with moderate to high flow connectivity and low–moderate flow direction. Thus, there’s possibility of movement of water towards the northern part (discharged zone) with the southern area forming the watershed.

Investigation of Groundwater Quality using Vertical Electrical Sounding and Dar Zarrouk Parameter in Leihitu, Maluku, Indonesia

The goal of this research is to obtain information related to aquifer quality, including aquifer protection capacity, transmissivity, and aquifer thickness based on vertical electrical sounding (VES) data and Dar-Zarrouk parameter analysis. The research area is located in Leihitu District, Ambon with 8 measurement points. The Leihitu region is included in the geological map of the Ambon sheet, Maluku, which consists of Late Pliocene - Holocene lithology, specifically Ambon volcanic rocks, reef limestones, and alluvial deposits. The rock resistivity measurements and layer thickness information were obtained using the VES method and analyzed with IP2WIN software. Based on VES data, aquifer properties were identified using Dar-Zarrouk parameters. That parameter consisted of longitudinal conductance, transfer resistance, longitudinal resistivity, and transfer resistivity. Longitudinal unit conductance is applied to evaluate the protective capacity class of the aquifer, the transfer resistance is beneficial for analyzing rock type and aquifer transmissivity. Based on the Dark-Zarrouk parameters, the longitudinal conductance (S) ranged from 0.0278 to 5.1213 mho and was classified as moderate to good protective capacity. The high S value results from a thick layer of clay at the observation point. This area also has a high enough transverse resistance (T) and then if related to aquifer transmissivity, this area is classified as a good transmissivity aquifer, especially at VES 2, VES 5, VES 6, VES 7, and VES 8. If correlated to rock formations, areas with limestone and volcanic rocks have better transmissivity than areas with alluvial deposits.

Multi-Criteria Analysis Method for Aquifer Vulnerability Investigation Using Godt Method at Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria

Geophysical investigation involving Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) Schlumberger array was carried out across Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan, a typical basement complex area having a rock composition of migmatite-gneiss, quartzite, and biotite-hornblende. A total of forty (40) vertical electrical sounding data were acquired with maximum current electrode separation of 100m using resistivity meter and its accessories. The aim of the study was to evaluate the aquifer vulnerability of the study area to contamination. The VES results were both qualitatively and quantitatively interpreted using partial curve matching and were further subjected to computer iteration using WINRESIST. The longitudinal conductance, thickness of layer overlying aquifer and hydraulic conductivity were generated and synthesized to produce the vulnerability map. A GODT multi-criteria model which is an acronym of Groundwater occurrence, Overburden thickness, Depth and Topography developed from the hydrogeologic parameters were evaluated alongside the longitudinal conductance values to determine the aquifer vulnerability of the area and to classify the study area accordingly. The curve type obtained are H and HA. The interpretation revealed three to four geoelectric layers: the topsoil (18.9-178.9Ωm), clayey (9.0-70.6Ωm), fractured basement (31.9-43.1Ωm) and fresh basement (1131-2916Ωm). The longitudinal unit conductance ranges from 0.032-0.93mhos. And from the GODT model derivations, the study area shows 92.5% of high vulnerability rating, 2.5% of low-moderate and 5% of moderate rating; areas with high rating are prone to contamination than areas with low-moderate and moderate rating. Hence, zones of high vulnerability may be not be encouraged for groundwater exploitation and, if need be, constant water quality assessment should be carried out before consumption.

AQUIFER SYSTEMS CHARACTERIZATION FOR GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT IN ILE-OLUJI, SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA, USING MCDA GIS-BASED AHP

Multicriteria decision analysis for groundwater potential mapping utilizing analytical hierarchical process of six hydrogeologic parameters including aquifer layer thickness, aquifer layer resistivity, overburden thickness, transverse resistance, transmissivity, and coefficient of anisotropy; in relation to groundwater yield was carried out in Ile Oluji, Southwestern Nigeria. The aim was to develop groundwater potential map using calculated groundwater potential index values (GWPIV). The obtained GWPIV which ranged from 1.53 (granite) – 3.50 (migmatite) with an average of 2.18 suggestive of moderate groundwater potential (90 % of the study area). The low potential zone (10 %) are observed sporadically in the central and northwestern parts. All the geological units recorded overlapping hydrogeologic properties. The longitudinal unit conductance recorded regional average of 0.219876 mhos. Therefore the protective capacity of groundwater system in the study area is weak, and relatively less-weaker in granite environment; and in northwestern and central parts. Nevertheless, the water table aquifer (accounts for 80%) and the fracture basement (constitutes 20%, frequently occurring in gneissic environment) are the water bearing units, with average overburden thickness in migmatite, granite, and gneiss 24.3 m, 24.5 m, and 27.9 m respectively. The average coefficient of anisotropy (1.12); hydraulic conductivity (0.37 m/d), transmissivity 6.86 m2/d (migmatite: 7.17 m2/d, granite: 7.14 m2/d, and gneiss: 6.02 m2/d). Hence gneissic offered both thick weathered layer and fractured aquifer. Empirical model for plot of formation factor and hydraulic conductivity in migmatite, granite, and gneiss, showed positive correlations in descending order as: granite (0.3778), migmatite (0.1057), and gneiss (0.0641).

Investigation of groundwater resources using electrical resistivity sounding and Dar Zarrouk parameters for Uthal Balochistan, Pakistan

Uthal is a small town in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It has an arid to semi-arid climate and groundwater is the primary source of freshwater for domestic and agricultural uses. To evaluate groundwater's nature, an electrical resistivity survey (ERS) was conducted in Uthal. Groundwater investigation for 25-point data was carried out with the PASI Electrical Resistivity Imaging System, using the Schlumberger array. The data was acquired with a maximum current electrode spacing of 300 m. The geoelectrical parameters measured were analyzed by IPI2win software by curve matching, and five geoelectrical layers were identified, and the Dar Zarrouk parameters were calculated. The top thinnest layer of unconsolidated material had a resistivity between 600 and 2600 Ωm. The second layer was of unconsolidated sand and gravel with a resistivity of 50–11,500 Ωm; the third with dry sand and clay had a resistivity of up to 200 Ωm; the fourth showed a thick freshwater zone with a resistivity between 75 and 100 Ωm followed by a thick layer of sand and clay with fresh water had resistivity between 48 Ωm and 90 Ωm. The Dar Zarrouk parameters, longitudinal unit conductance S is from 0.1 to 1.65 mho; transverse unit resistance T greater than 25,000 Ωm2; longitudinal resistance RS is from 50 to 1350 Ωm and transverse resistivity RT from 22 to 1150 Ωm. ERS data and Dar Zarrouk parameters showed that the study area has freshwater resources in the subsurface. Saline water is present in isolated locations in small pockets, resulting from dry surface conditions. The results of ERS data and Dar Zarrouk parameters show no occurrence of seawater intrusion.

Integrating hydrogeological and second-order geo-electric indices in groundwater vulnerability mapping: A case study of alluvial environments

AVI (Aquifer vulnerability index), GOD (groundwater occurrence, overlying lithology and depth to the aquifer), GLSI (geo-electric layer susceptibility indexing) and S (longitudinal unit conductance) models were used to assess economically exploitable groundwater resource in the coastal environment of Akwa Ibom State, southern Nigeria. The models were employed in order to delineate groundwater into its category of vulnerability to contamination sources using the first- and second-order geo-electric indices as well as hydrogeological inputs. Vertical electrical sounding technique employing Schlumberger electrode configuration was carried out in 16 locations, close to logged boreholes with known aquifer core samples. Primary or first-order geo-electric indices (resistivity, thickness and depth) measured were used to determine S. The estimated aquifer hydraulic conductivity, K, calculated from grain size diameter and water resistivity values were used to calculate hydraulic resistance (C) used to estimate AVI. With the indices assigned to geo-electric parameters on the basis of their influences, GOD and FSLI were calculated using appropriate equations. The geologic sequence in the study area consists of geo-electric layers ranging from motley topsoil, argillites (clayey to fine sands) and arenites (medium to gravelly sands). Geo-electric parametric indices of aquifer overlying layers across the survey area were utilized to weigh the vulnerability of the underlying water-bearing resource to the contaminations from surface and near-surface, using vulnerability maps created. Geo-electrically derived model maps reflecting AVI, BOD, FLSI and S were compared to assess their conformity to the degree of predictability of groundwater vulnerability. The AVI model map shows range of values of log C ( −3.46—0.07) generally less than unity and hence indicating high vulnerability. GOD model tomographic map displays a range of 0.1–0.3, indicating that the aquifer with depth range of 20.5 to 113.1 m or mean depth of 72. 3 m is lowly susceptible to surface and near-surface impurities. Again, the FLSI map displays a range of FLSI index of 1.25 to 2.75, alluding that the aquifer underlying the protective layer has a low to moderate vulnerability. The S model has values ranging from 0.013 to 0.991S. As the map indicates, a fractional portion of the aquifer at the western (Ikot Abasi) part of the study area has moderate to good protection (moderate vulnerability) while weak to poor aquifer protection (high vulnerability) has poor protection. The S model in this analysis seems to overstate the degree of susceptibility to contamination than the AVI, GOD and GLSI models. From the models, the categorization of severity of aquifer vulnerability to contaminations is relatively location-dependent and can be assessed through the model tomographic maps generated.

Delineating saline and fresh water aquifers in Tuticorin of southern India by using geophysical techniques

Geo-electrical survey was conducted in a highly industrialized area to delineate the freshwater and saline water aquifers. A total of 30 vertical electrical soundings (VES) were made along the coastal aquifers of Tuticorin, which covers both sedimentary formation and crystalline rocks. By using VES data, GIS was used to create spatial maps for resistivity and thickness at various depths. The results show that Q and H were the dominant curve types in the study area. Q type curves indicate saline water by decreasing resistivity values with respect to depths. In H type curves, low resistivity saline water aquifer was sandwiched between high resistivity topsoil and hard rock at the deeper horizon. The geophysical indicators such as Dar-Zarrouk parameters were calculated using the VES results. The Longitudinal unit conductance (S) values ranged between 0.075 and 7500 S. The transverse unit resistance (T) of the study area varied from 16.06 to 5909.25 Ωm2. The anisotropy (λ) values ranged from 1.00 to 55. Interpretation of data reveals that the saline water intrusion and industrial impact on shallow aquifers were observed in the coastal region of the study area. Few pockets of the freshwater aquifer were also noted in deeper horizons. Since the quality of groundwater was deteriorating, proper management plans will be needed to save this fragile coastal aquifer.

Modeling of groundwater yield by the electrical method case of the Triassic sandstone aquifer (Tataouine South-Eastern Tunisia)

Abstract The method of electrical resistivity has proven very effective in the evaluation of groundwater. This specialized technique uses Dar-Zarrouk (D-Z) parameters in the estimation of longitudinal unit conductance, transverse unit resistance, and longitudinal resistivity to examine the groundwater level, to distinguish the fresh, brackish, and saline water interface, and to assess the storage capacity of groundwater in the Triassic sandstone aquifer system in the Tataouine region (South-Eastern Tunisia). In this context, 23 vertical electrical soundings (VESs) were carried out in the Tataouine region using the Schlumberger configuration with a current electrode with a maximum spacing of the current electrodes (AB) of 500–600 m. The results indicate that the study area consists of three types of aquifers: (i) silt/clay saline water (<20 Ωm), (ii) a mixture of sand and clay freshwater (20–40 Ωm), and (iii) sand freshwater (40–200 Ωm). These sand freshwater aquifers are characterized by low longitudinal unit conductance (0–2.8 S), high values of transverse unit resistance (more than 9,000 Ωm2), and longitudinal resistivity (more than 35 Ωm) and are mainly concentrated in the north, south, and south-west regions of the study area. It should also be noted that the coefficient of anisotropy (λ) overlaps and does not clearly differentiate the characteristics of the aquifers of fresh, brackish, and saline water. An interpretation of VESs can also determine the storage capacity of groundwater by determining yield index values. Groundwater supply for the entire study area was classified as low yield, with a percentage of 13% and a maximum of 31% of the study area and 56% of moderate yield. Lastly, the real data from the drilling confirm all these results presented previously. The findings suggest that D-Z parameters are useful for making a distinction of various aquifer zones.

Application of geographical information system to geoelectrical data for evaluation of the vulnerability of aquifers in parts of Bauchi, Northeastern Nigeria

The poor quality and inconsistent nature of most surface water supply in arid and semi-arid regions of the world has increased the reliance on groundwater resources. However, the susceptibility of groundwater to anthropogenic pollution in most cities and rural communities in Nigeria has become a major source of concern. In this study, the protective capacity of the aquifers in parts of the Bauchi State, Northeastern, Nigeria, from surface contamination was investigated in light of the geoelectrical characteristics of the overburden materials for sustainable management of the resources. This study applied a geographical information system (GIS) technique to secondary geoelectrical parameters (Dar-Zarrouk) derived from 94 vertical electrical soundings (VES) to delineate aquifer vulnerability zones. Five different thematic maps (topsoil longitudinal unit conductance, total overburden longitudinal unit conductance, total transverse unit resistance, coefficient of anisotropy, and total overburden isopach) were developed. Suitable weights were assigned to the thematic maps based on their relative influence on the protection of groundwater systems in the area. Subsequently, the ranks of the subclasses of the themes were reclassified based on their respective suitability before the thematic maps were integrated using ArcGIS 10.3 software to generate the overall aquifer protective capacity map of the study area. To validate the map, water samples were collected from 40 wells and trace elements (e.g., Ni, Cu, Sb, Cr, and As) were analyzed. The study area was categorized into three aquifer vulnerability zones: moderate (32.4%), weak/fair (54.5%), and low/poor (13.1%). Moderate zones with limited portions of fair/weak zones were the predominant zones within the basement setting. This reflects the occurrence of clayey saprolitic units within the basement terrain ( 15,000 Ωm2). Over 60% of the basement settings are characterized by moderate aquifer protective capacity. On the other hand, the sedimentary zones due to weak and poor protective capacity zones are more vulnerable to pollution. The trace elemental analysis shows the predominance of As, Cu, and Sb in the sedimentary zones as compared to the basement setting which corroborates the aquifer protective capacity map produced.

Assessment of Groundwater Resources in Coastal Areas of Pakistan for Sustainable Water Quality Management Using Joint Geophysical and Geochemical Approach: A Case Study

Delineation of fresh/saline groundwater is essential for sustainable water quality management, especially in the coastal areas all around the globe. Seawater intrusion causes substantial degradation in quality of freshwater resources in the coastal areas. The main reason for saltwater intrusion is the changing environment in terms of sea-level rise, climate change, and over-extraction of freshwater resources to meet the growing demands. In this study, an integrated approach of geophysical and geochemical methods was used to assess saltwater intrusion in the coastal areas of Bela Plain, Pakistan. The inverted electrical resistivity computed from 50 vertical electrical sounding (VES) constrained the subsurface into five layers and two aquifers through 3D imaging, such as silty clay and sandy clay containing saline water, and sand, sandy gravel, and gravel containing freshwater. However, the narrow range of resistivity values shows an overlap of saline/fresh groundwater. Such ambiguity in the resistivity interpretation was removed by Dar-Zarrouk (D-Z) parameters. D-Z parameters, namely transverse unit resistance (Tr), longitudinal unit conductance (Sc), and longitudinal resistivity (ρL) estimated from VES, marked a clear distinction between saline and fresh aquifers with a wide range of values. The geochemical method was performed using 20 water samples for the main cations (K+, Ca2+ Na+, and Mg2+), anions (SO42−, HCO3−, Cl−, and NO3−), and other parameters (TDS, EC, and pH). Fresh/saline aquifers revealed by D-Z parameters are in good agreement with those delineated by physicochemical parameters and local hydrogeological conditions. This study delineates seawater intrusion of about 13–42 km from Sonmiani Bay in the Arabian Sea towards the inlands of Bela Plain. Therefore, it is expected that this investigation will be helpful in future planning for the management and exploitation of freshwater resources in the study area. Our study suggests that D-Z parameters can be used as the most inexpensive alternative to the traditional geotechnical and environmental tests for the demarcation of fresh/saline groundwater with a large coverage in any coastal or contaminated area under a homogeneous or heterogeneous setting.

Estimation of Aquifer Protective Capacity, Soil Corrosivity and Dar-Zarrouk Parameters in Kaura Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria

This study presents an estimation of aquifer protective capacity, soil corrosivity and Dar-Zarrouk parameters for Kaura area of Kaduna State in northern Nigeria. Electrical resistivity sounding data and borehole pumping test data obtained from 20 locations within the LGA were obtained and used for this study. The geoelectric data exhibited curve types generally consisting of H, HA, KH or K-A-H types from which five-layer lithology were delineated across the entire study area. Well yield varies from 16 – 400 litres/min, pumping rate ranges from 16 to 140 l/min, drawdown varies from 1 – 22m, while specific capacity ranged from 1 – 95 litres/min. The aquifer protective capacity characterization was based on values of longitudinal unit conductance of the overburden, and 35% of the locations showed good protective capacity, while the remaining 65% exhibited moderate protective capacity. From the soil corrosivity evaluation, the upper soil layers were classified as moderately corrosive at one location, four locations were marked as slightly corrosive, while the remaining locations were found to be practically non-corrosive. Based on thicknesses and resistivities of the overburden layers, Dar-Zarrouk parameters were determined. The reflection coefficient ranged from 0.29 to 0.92, resistivity contrast occurred between 0.35 to 25.38, while the coefficient of anisotropy ranged from 0.70 to 3.84 with mean value of 1.57. Values above 1.0 are generally considered high and they occurred more toward the western part of the area than the middle and eastern parts. Both the longitudinal unit conductance map and coefficient of anisotropy map were generated for the area.

Estimation of Aquifer Protective Capacity, Soil Corrosivity and Dar-Zarrouk Parameters in Kaura Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria

This study presents an estimation of aquifer protective capacity, soil corrosivity and Dar-Zarrouk parameters for Kaura area of Kaduna State in northern Nigeria. Electrical resistivity sounding data and borehole pumping test data obtained from 20 locations within the LGA were obtained and used for this study. The geoelectric data exhibited curve types generally consisting of H, HA, KH or K-A-H types from which five-layer lithology were delineated across the entire study area. Well yield varies from 16 – 400 litres/min, pumping rate ranges from 16 to 140 l/min, drawdown varies from 1 – 22m, while specific capacity ranged from 1 – 95 litres/min. The aquifer protective capacity characterization was based on values of longitudinal unit conductance of the overburden, and 35% of the locations showed good protective capacity, while the remaining 65% exhibited moderate protective capacity. From the soil corrosivity evaluation, the upper soil layers were classified as moderately corrosive at one location, four locations were marked as slightly corrosive, while the remaining locations were found to be practically non-corrosive. Based on thicknesses and resistivities of the overburden layers, Dar-Zarrouk parameters were determined. The reflection coefficient ranged from 0.29 to 0.92, resistivity contrast occurred between 0.35 to 25.38, while the coefficient of anisotropy ranged from 0.70 to 3.84 with mean value of 1.57. Values above 1.0 are generally considered high and they occurred more toward the western part of the area than the middle and eastern parts. Both the longitudinal unit conductance map and coefficient of anisotropy map were generated for the area.

Delineation of Groundwater Potential Zones using Integrated Approach in Semi-Arid Hard Rock Terrain, Kanavi Halla Sub-Basin, Belagavi District, Karnataka

Water scarcity has become a major problem especially in arid and semi-arid regions due to insufficient rainfall throughout the globe. This has led in serious search for groundwater resources. Kanavi Halla Sub Basin (KHSB) of Ghataprabha River basin drained by Ghataprabha River, Belagavi District of Karnataka state in India has been considered for present study. Electrical resistivity survey was carried out at selected sites using Schlumberger method with four electrode configuration. A total of 22 Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) were conducted throughout KHSB and representative of different litho units were considered. Data obtained were then interpreted using curve matching technique with IPI2Win software. The interpreted graphs show three to six layers. The various interpreted curve types are of AAK-type, HA-type, A-type, KH-type, HAA-type, KQH-type, AK-type, K-type, HQH-type, H-type and AKQH-type. From the results it shows that the maximum number of curves are associated with A type which refers to hard rock terrain, whereas curve associated with H type indicates water potential site. The expected subsurface strata are interpreted on the basis of observed bore well drilling data. Borewell log reveals soil formation followed by moderately weathered formation, weathered jointed formation, jointed formation, hard formation from top to bottom. Further deep, the formation is devoid of joints and fractures. Therefore, the weathered, jointed formation may be interpreted as water bearing zone. 2-D geo-electric section has been drawn using IPI2WIN over eight selected trends to understand the geometry of the aquifer formed. The investigation was meant to characterize the aquifer in KHSB along with the risk assessment for contaminants through seepage in terms of protective capacity with the help of Dar-Zarrouk (D-Z) parameters such as longitudinal unit conductance (S), longitudinal resitivity (ρ1), transverse unit resistance (T), transverse resistivity (ρt), Electrical anisotropy(λ) and root mean square resistivity (ρm). These were evaluated to know the aquifer conditions in order to demarcate the freshwater bearing zones. South eastern part of KHSB might be contaminated and 30% of the area is weak to poor capacity protective zone for contaminants. The work adequately highlights the practical use of geophysical techniques, combination of geo-electrical modelling, D-Z parameters, borehole log in the groundwater resource assessment process. This technique is highly recommended for the area with similar geological setup.

Evaluation of groundwater potential zones using integrated geophysical approach in Obun-Ewi, Ondo East local government, Southwestern Nigeria

Obun-Ewi area is underlain by the Precambrian Basement Complex rocks of Southwestern Nigeria. The area suffers from a shortage of freshwater and the main source of water is rainwater. Groundwater provides an alternative solution to face the gap between water demand and available water in this area. Groundwater study involving the application of a very low frequency electromagnetic (VLF-EM) survey and vertical electrical sounding (VES) was carried out in parts of Obun-Ewi area Ondo State, Nigeria to evaluate the groundwater potential of the study area. ABEM WADI equipment was used to establish six (6) VLF-EM traverses with a station interval of 10 m. The inversion of the real component data of VLF-EM into 2D pseudo-sections was generated using Karous-Hjelt software. Linear features assumed to be minor fractures/conductors inferred from the filtered real pseudo-sections helped in choosing twenty-three (23) vertical electrical sounding points that were further probed using DDR-3 resistivity equipment. The Schlumberger electrode configuration was employed with half-current electrode separation (AB/2) ranging from 1 to 100 m. The partial curve matching technique was used to interpret the VES data quantitatively. The geoelectric parameters (depths and resistivities) were used to produce the geoelectric sections, isoresistivity map, isopach maps of the weathered layer and overburden, longitudinal unit conductance map and bedrock relief map of Obun-Ewi, Ondo town. The results obtained from the geoelectric sections revealed three subsurface geologic layers, namely: the topsoil, weathered layer (comprises of clay/sandy clay and laterite), and fractured basement/fresh bedrock. The topsoil resistivity varied from 56 to 1222 Ωm, and depth ranged from 0.5 to 1.8 m. The weathered layer resistivity values ranged from 16 to 1168 Ωm; while the thickness varied from 0.7 to 6.2 m. The overburden thickness varied between 1.6 and 7.2 m. The delineated weathered and fractured basement columns constituted the aquifer units. The composite groundwater potential map generated demarcated the study area into good, moderate and poor groundwater potential zones. The groundwater potential map revealed that about 69.6% of the study area fell within the poor groundwater potential rating, about 21.7% constituted the moderate groundwater potential rating while the remaining 8.7% constituted high groundwater potential rating. The study concluded that the groundwater potential of Obun-Ewi, Ondo town is generally poor, with areas around central South (around VES 9) and far Northern part of the study area (around VES 21) has good groundwater potential, suitable for siting boreholes.

Assessment of Hydrogeological Potential and Aquifer Protective Capacity of Odeda, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract Hydrogeological assessment of groundwater resources was carried out with a view to evaluate the potential of the aquifers to provide portable water supply and access the distribution of electrical parameters of hydrogeologic units in some areas in Odeda, Ogun State, Nigeria. A geophysical survey using vertical electrical sounding (VES) with the Schlumberger electrode array, with half-current electrode spacing (AB/2) varying from 1 to 132 m was carried out at 30 different stations in the study area. The VES data were interpreted qualitatively and quantitatively. Three-to-five sub-surface layers consisting of topsoil, weathered layer consisting of clay, sandy clay, clayey sand and sand layers, and fractured/fresh basement were delineated. Layer resistivities and thicknesses obtained on the curves within the study area showed one main aquifer type, which is the fractured basement. The longitudinal unit conductance (ranging from 0.049720 to 1.4520000 mhos) of the study area aided the protective capacity to be rated into good, moderate and weak. About 33% of the study area falls within the weak protective capacity, 57% falls within the moderate protective capacity and 10% falls within the good protective capacity.

Hydrogeological characteristics of crystalline rock aquifers: implication on sustainable water supply in the basement complex terrain of southwestern Nigeria

Poor understanding of groundwater resources of the basement environment constitutes a barrier to sustainability of current potable groundwater-based supply initiatives in sub-Sahara Africa. This study assesses the influence of aquifer characteristics on groundwater yield potential and the consequent impact on water supply in Osun Drainage Basin within the basement complex area of southwestern Nigeria. Aquifer thickness, longitudinal unit conductance, hydraulic conductivity (K) and transmissivity (T) were derived from the interpretation results of 500 spatially referenced vertical electrical sounding data and subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics show that aquifer thickness is generally low in most part of the study area with the exception of few locations where overburden thickness exceeds 50 m. Delineated aquifers have the capacity to absorb and retain water but with less ability to release the water, as indicated by low mean K (1.6 × 10−4 m/s). Only 1.4% of the aquifers have medium relative K (10−3 m/s), while the remaining 98.65% have low to very low relative K (≤ 10−4 m/s). Computed low mean T (6.2 × 10−3 m2/s) suggests low groundwater yield potential for the study basin. Currently, groundwater resources could only meet 32.7% of the household water demand of the study area and the coverage would reduce to 27.2% in the decade 2021–2030. Therefore, there is an urgent need to focus on surface water development given the fact that annual rainfall is high enough to sustain pipe-borne water supply schemes in the study basin.

Groundwater Aquifer Vulnerability Assessment using a Dar-Zarrouk Parameter in a Proposed Aboru Residential Estate, Lagos State, Nigeria

The need to build an automobile mechanic settlement, abattoir and a proposed meat processing factory at Aboru residential estate necessitated a geophysical assessment (using a Dar-Zarrouk parameter – longitudinal unit conductance, S) of the vulnerability of the subsurface aquifers in the study area against the expected long-term anthropogenic impacts of these facilities on the groundwater system. Thirteen (13) Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) points and four (4) Dipole-Dipole resistivity profile lines were occupied on four traverse lines across the study area. Isoresistivity and Isopach maps were generated and Total Longitudinal Unit Conductance, S of the earth materials overlying the aquifer was computed and the aquifer protective capacity (APC) map was generated. The VES delineated four (4) geo-electric layers namely; topsoil, pebbly/lateritic sand, clay/clayey/silty sand and sandstone. The depth to the sandstone aquifer ranges from 30.6 – 39.4 m with resistivity values ranging from 851 – 1437 Ωm. The iso-resistivity and isopach maps reveal that the near surface lateritic materials with resistivity values ranging from 350 – 1150 Ωm and thicknesses ranging from 2 – 29 m are pervious. The Total Longitudinal Unit Conductance, S varies from 0.0164 - 0.1168 mhos indicating a poor to weak protective capacity rating across the study area and the APC map reveals that the north-eastern and western parts of the study area show areas with weak protective capacity ratings while other areas are characterized by poor protective capacity rating. As such, the establishment of the proposed service facilities in the study area is strongly discouraged as the nature of their operations has a high potential to contaminate and eventually pollute the sub-surface aquifers on the long-run. If however the inevitability of their establishment cannot be set-aside, then secondary measures must be taken to forestall a direct impact of their operations on the subsurface. Keywords : Aquifer, Dar-Zarrouk, Vulnerability, Longitudinal Unit Conductance

Mapping Shallow Aquifers Intruded by Saltwater in the Coastal Area of Benin River in Western Niger Delta fromDar-Zarrouk Parameters

Shallow aquifers are the major source of groundwater to the inhabitants of the coastal area of the Niger Delta. Groundwater is harnessed by hand-dug wells because they are easier and inexpensive to construct compared to boreholes. The closeness of groundwater water table to the surface encourages the construction of dug wells. The coastal area under investigation is faced with acute groundwater quality and assessment problems arising from saltwater intrusion. Dar-Zarrouk parameter comprising of longitudinal unit conductance(S) and transverse unit resistance (T) were coupled with resistivity to discriminate freshwater from saltwater zones. S across the area ranged from 0.03 to 2.96 Siemens and T from 1.4 to 790 Ω m2. S values greater and lesser than 0.3Siemens were considered as saltwater and freshwater zones respectively, while T values that ranged from 1.32 to 161.33Ω m2 were regarded as saltwater zones. Resistivity high of 185Ωm to 1511.58Ωm was assigned freshwater zones. The resistivity data considered showed evidence of freshwater at depth of 27.6m and saltwater at 34.3m. The lateral interface between saltwater and freshwater is situated at 565m from the sea. The intrusion revealed by the study does not suggest over-withdrawal of groundwater because of the small population of inhabitants but to natural hydrodynamic forcing connected with aquifer adjacent to the sea. However, the tendency of upconing of saltwater into the freshwater aquifer is probably at the depth of 3.9 to 12.3m by over-withdrawing of groundwater may not be ruled out in the future. Induced polarization is suggested as a follow-up investigation to unravel ambiguity that may be associated with resolution of resistivity data.Key words: Benin River, Niger Delta, Saltwater intrusion, Dar-Zarrouk Parameters, longitudinal unit conductance, transverse unit resistance.