Hydrogeochemical investigation of surface and groundwater composition in an irrigated land in Central Tunisia

Major element concentrations, stable (δ18O and δ2H) and radiogenic (3H, 14C) isotopes determined in groundwater provided useful initial tracers for understanding the processes that control groundwater mineralization and identifying recharge sources in semi-arid Cherichira basin (central Tunisia).Chemical data based on the chemistry of several major ions has revealed that the main sources of salinity in the groundwaters are related to the water–rock interaction such as the dissolution of evaporitic and carbonate minerals and some reactions with silicate and feldspar minerals.The stable isotope compositions provide evidence that groundwaters are derived from recent recharge. The δ18O and δ2H relationships implied rapid infiltration during recharge to both the Oligocene and Quaternary aquifers, with only limited evaporation occurring in the Quaternary aquifer.Chemical and isotopic signatures of the reservoir waters show large seasonal evolution and differ clearly from those of groundwaters.Tritium data support the existence of recent recharge in Quaternary groundwaters. But, the low tritium values in Oligocene groundwaters are justified by the existence of clay lenses which limit the infiltration of meteoric water in the unsaturated zone and prolong the groundwater residence time.Carbon-14 activities confirm that groundwaters are recharged from the surface runoff coming from precipitation.

► We examine the processes that control groundwater mineralization in Cherichira basin.
► The occurrence of the recent recharge in the basin was shown.
► The chemical and isotopic variation of the reservoir waters with time was demonstrated.
► The work aids management strategies of scarce groundwater resources in Tunisia.