Seawater intrusion and hydrogeochemical processes in the Ischia Island groundwater system

Abstract

Ischia is a volcanic island located NW of the Gulf of Naples (South Italy). The island of Ischia is a structurally complex hydrothermal active system that hosts a fractured aquifer system whose geometry and hydraulic properties are still partly unknown. The aquifer system of Ischia, composed mainly of Quaternary volcanic deposits and marine sediments, exhibits physically and chemically heterogeneous waters. The intense seismicity and hydrothermal activity are expressed by numerous fumaroles and thermal springs, which have been exploited since ancient times, promoting, and supporting the world-renowned tourist activities that constitute the main economic activity of the island. The aim of this study is to determine the hydrogeochemical processes in the Ischia aquifer system. Also, we calculated the proportion of seawater in the aquifer system of Ischia using historical hydrogeochemical data relative to two sampling campaigns. Sixty-nine groundwater and thermal spring samples collected in July 2000 were analyzed and compared with previously published data to identify the changes in seawater contribution. The sample analysis shows that different physicochemical processes occur in the groundwater of Ischia Island, where recharge water, seawater and deep fluids interact and overlap with different intensity. The calculated saline factor indicates a seawater content of up to 70% in some samples near the coast, suggesting that seawater intrusion is the main process in these areas. Later data show that seawater intrusion increases around the coastline with up to 93% seawater content. Finally, data analysis shows that although a change in chemical composition is observed, no variation in thermal water temperature is recorded over time.