Perched groundwater at the northwestern coast of Egypt: a case study of the Fuka Basin

Researchdata
Maintained by Karin Kindermann
Created at 20.8.2014

Abstract

Perched groundwater resources on the northwestern
coast of Egypt have thus far been little studied.
However, if replenished by rainwater, they can provide a
considerable amount of renewable water, i.e., for sustainable
irrigation. These resources are limited, show different
salinity contents and are endangered by overuse, pollution
and by the sea level rising in the context of global warming.
This paper presents new climatic data, geomorphologic,
geologic, geochemical and hydrological researches
in combination with remote sensing and GIS applications
from Fuka Basin. Fuka constitutes a special synclinal basin
where the interbedded limestone and clays have been folded
into gentle synclinal structures. Fractured Middle
Miocene limestone represents the bearing formation for the
perched groundwater. According to the hydrogeochemical
analysis and the PHREEQC model, the aquifer is recharged
during the winter season by rainwater from the surrounding
tableland and the chemical evolution of the perched water
is attributed to water–rock interaction and mixing of fresh
water with sea water. The salinity of the perched water
ranges from 2,126 to 2,644 mg/L whereas for the deep
groundwater it reaches 9,800 mg/L. The study explores
origin and potential of the perched groundwater of Fuka
Basin and gives recommendations for a future sustainable
use and further investigations.

Bibliography

M. Yousif, ., Bubenzer, O. (2012): Perched groundwater at the northwestern coast of Egypt: a case study of the Fuka Basin. – In: Applied Water Science, p: 15-28, DOI: 10.1007/s13201-011-0023-0

authorM. Yousif, and O. Bubenzer
doi10.1007/s13201-011-0023-0
journalApplied Water Science
keyM.Yousif2012
pages15-28
typearticle
year2012
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