Assessment of of phosphorus fertilizer wastes production impact on subterranean water quality (Gomel chemical plant, Republic of Belarus)

Abstract

Relevance. Phosphate raw materials processing at the Gomel chemical plant over a period of more than 50 years has led to accumulation of millions of tons of phosphogypsum dumps. They are a source of subterranean water contamination by sulfates, phosphates and other chemical compounds. Therefore, there is the need in current estimation of the scale and extent of aquifers contamination, taking into account the geological and hydrogeological conditions that influence the migration of contaminants. Aim. Assessment of hydrogeological parameters affecting distribution of contaminants in subterranean water and the degree of aquifers contamination. Objects. Aquifers and impermeable horizons. Methods. Methods for assessment of hydrogeological parameters, methods for determining the chemical composition of subterranean water. Results. The paper assesses a technogenic effect, produced by dumps of Gomel chemical plant. It reviews a subterranean water monitoring local network within the Gomel chemical plant influence area. The hydrogeological parameters of aquifers of the upper hydrodynamic zone are quantitatively assessed, given that this zone undergoes the strongest anthropogenic impact. The study of subterranean water quality ends up with three classes of contamination: high, moderate and insignificant. Sulphates, nitrogen ammonium, phosphorus phosphate are identified as major contaminants. The authors find a spatial pattern of subterranean water contaminants differentiation that tends to develop both horizontally and vertically. As a result of the study, areas and sources of high groundwater contamination are determined and mapped. A conclusion is drawn on the necessity of further control over the subterranean water conditions and contamination development in time and space.