Application of Geostatistical Tools to the Geochemical Characterization of the Peloritani Mts (Sicily, Italy) Aquifers

Abstract

Sources of groundwater contaminants in inhabited areas, located in complex geo-tectonic contexts, are often deeply interlocked, thus, making the discrimination between anthropic and natural origins difficult. In this study, we investigate the Peloritani Mountain aquifers (Sicily, Italy), using the combination of probability plots with concentration contour maps to retrieve an overall view of the groundwater geo-chemistry with a special focus on the flux of heavy metals. In particular, we present a methodology for integrating spatial data with very different levels of precision, acquired before and during the “geomatic era”. Our results depict a complex geochemical layout driven by a geo-puzzle of rocks with very different lithological natures, hydraulically connected by a dense tectonic network that is also responsible for the mixing of deep hydrothermal fluids with the meteoric recharge. Moreover, a double source, geogenic or anthropogenic, was individuated for many chemicals delivered to groundwater bodies. The concentration contour maps, based on the different data groups identified by the probability plots, fit the coherency and congruency criteria with the distribution of both rock matrices and anthropogenic sources for chemicals, indicating the success of our geostatistical approach.

Occurrence and crystal chemistry of austinite, conichalcite and zincolivenite from the Peloritani Mountains, northeastern Sicily, Italy

“…For instance, De Vivo et al (1993) stressed the presence of anomalous contents of As, Hg, Sb, Zn and Pb in stream sediments from this area, whereas Dongarrà et al (2009) found high As concentrations in waters from mineralised areas. A geogenic source for the As contamination detected in the Peloritani Mountains was also suggested by Cangemi et al (2021), agreeing with previous results of Cosenza et al (2015) who reported high PTE content in soils from Fiumedinisi, Budali and Alì, related to the weathering of ore deposits and mine wastes.…”