Geochemical Characteristics and Controlling Factors of Groundwater Chemical Composition in the Zihe River Source Area, Shandong, China

Abstract

The geochemical characterization and evolution of shallow groundwater in the Zihe River source area is a key issue that needs to be addressed. In this study, a combination of traditional geochemical techniques and geochemical modeling was used to explain the geochemical processes and major ion sources in the chemical evolution of shallow groundwater in the Zihe River source area, Northeast China. Fifty-seven water samples were collected in June 2020 for chemical analysis, and the results showed that the main groundwater chemistry types in the three major aquifers are HCO3·SO4-Ca·Mg-type pore water from loose quaternary rocks, HCO3·SO4-Ca·Mg-type karstic fissure water from carbonate rocks, and HCO3·SO4-Ca-type weathered fissure water from massive rocks. Water–rock interactions in alkaline environments were the main causes of changes in groundwater chemistry. Rock weathering dominated the geochemical evolution of each aquifer. The analysis of ion concentration ratios and modeling revealed that the aquifer’s chemical components are mainly derived from the dissolution of dolomite and calcite and partly from the infiltration of pollutants containing Cl− and NO3−, as well as from the dissolution of quartz. Mg2+ is derived from the dissolution of dolomite. HCO3− is primarily derived from the co-dissolution of calcite and dolomite, and to a lesser extent, its content is also influenced by the recharge of rainfall. SO42− has two sources: it mainly originates from the dissolution of gypsum and the anhydrite layer, followed by atmospheric precipitation. The synthesis showed that the groundwater quality in the source area of Zihe River is good, all the indices reached the standard of class III groundwater quality, and the overall degree of human pollution is low. The results of this research will provide a scientific basis for the local authorities to delineate karst groundwater protection zones in the Zihe River source area and to formulate resource management strategies for the development, utilization, and protection of karst groundwater.