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HYDRO-CHEMICAL STUDY WITH GEOSPATIAL ANALYZIS OF GROUNDWATER

QUALITY IN ILLIZI REGION, SOUTH-EASTERN OF ALGERIA

Article in IRANIAN JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY & CHEMICAL ENGINEERING-INTERNATIONAL ENGLISH EDITION · October 2021
DOI: 10.30492/IJCCE.2020.39800

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Research Article Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

Hydro-Chemical Study with Geospatial Analysis of

Groundwater Quality Illizi Region, South-East of Algeria

Kouadri, Saber*+
Laboratory of Water and Environment Engineering in Saharan Environment,
University of Kasdi Merbah-Ouargla, PB 147 RP, 30000 Ouargla, ALGERIA

Samir, Kateb
Research Laboratory in Exploitation and Development of Natural Resources in Arid Zones,
University of Kasdi Merbah-Ouargla, PB 147 RP, 30000 Ouargla, ALGERIA

ABSTRACT: For the aim of evaluating the physical and chemical groundwater quality of six layers
(the Lower Devonian, Mio Pliocene, Infero Flux, Cambro Ordovician, Albian, and Zaraitine in Illizi,
and to identify the sources of its chemical composition and detect the suitability for drinking and
irrigation purposes, 44 samples were collected during tow years 2018-2019 to measure pH, T°,
Electrical Conductivity (EC) and Total Dissolved Salts (TDS), major elements concentrations
were analyzed in the laboratory. The suitability of groundwater for irrigation and other uses was
assessed by determining the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), Soluble-Sodium Percentage (SSP),
Permeability Index (PI), Kelly Index (KI), and Total Hardness (TH) of water samples. The spatial
distribution of key parameters was assessed using a GIS-based spatial gridding technique.
This analysis indicated that the Zaraitine groundwaters used to have the worst chemical quality, while
the Infero Flux, Cambro Ordovician and Albian groundwaters have suitable water for drinking.
Based on Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR), Solubility Sodium Percent (SSP), Kelly Index (KI),
Permeability Index (PI), Residual Sodium Carbonate content (RSC), and Magnesium Hazard (MH).
we find that the Lower Devonian, the Infero Flux, and Cambro Ordovician have suitable water
for irrigation, on the other hand, all of Mio-Pliocene, Albian, and Zaraitine consider as unsuitable
for agriculture practice. PCA analyses with the comparison between Lower Devonian wells in Illizi town
and Lower Devonian wells in Fadnoun town in groundwater quality confirm that the local
environmental conditions are a more important factor for groundwater quality than geographical
distribution. Geospatial mapping of hydro-chemical parameters shows that the southeast of Illizi
and the western part of Djanet are the best sub-areas for agriculture practice.

KEYWORDS: Groundwater; GIS; Hydrochemistry; Lower Devonian; Illizi.

INTRODUCTION
Groundwater is an essential source of clean water semiarid zones, we could say that groundwater is the first
in the whole globe [1]. When we speak about arid and water resource available there. One from the master's
* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
+ E-mail: [email protected]
1021-9986/2021/4/1315-1332 18/$/6.08

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Kouadri S. & Samir K. Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

factors holding back economic progression is the effective management of large and complex groundwater
accessibility of water resources in the study area because data. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) widely used
of the poverty of water resources, which makes statistical technique for the characterization and evaluation
the groundwater is the only supplier for different uses. of groundwater quality [16,17]. During the past years,
The chemical composition of water from the natural irrigational uses in Illizi have been increased and
environment is very variable. It depends on the especially in Illizi town and Djanet town. This paper
geological nature of the soil where it comes from and also is considered the first scientific work of his kind
on the reactive substances it could have encountered in the study area, it aimed for : (1) to study groundwater
during the flow. Thus, the quantitative and qualitative quality of six deferent layers (Lower Devonian, Mio-Pliocene,
composition of groundwater in the suspended and Infero Flux, Cambro Ordovician, Albian, and Zaraitine)
dissolved matter, of mineral or organic nature, determines to estimate the suitability of groundwater for drinking
its quality [2]. However, this quality can be altered when and irrigational uses and in the same way to assess
external substances come into contact with the aquifer. the influences of irrigational and industry practices on
Such is the case with undesirable or even toxic groundwater quality, and (2) to assess the more important
substances which make groundwater unfit and toxic predictor for groundwater quality between whether local
for various uses, for use as drinking water in particular. conditions and geographical distribution. Assessing
The intensive use of natural resources and the increase groundwater quality could be applied in such a way in
in human activities have caused serious problems other unexplored areas of the county and for better water
with the quality of groundwater [3]. On the other hand, preservation, management, and human health.
the increasing tendency of the agricultural Illizi in the last
years pushes us to make this study. Illizi is located STUDY AREA CHARACTERISTICS
in the South-East of Algeria which is considered Geographic localization of study area
as an arid region. We choose the hydrochemical Illizi is located in the extreme southeast of Algeria
investigations as a method for the determination of (Fig. 1). It covers an area of 284 618 km², and it is bordering
groundwater chemical characteristics; this method makes with three countries on a border of about1200 km, Tunisia
good links between ratio, statistical, and graphical to the north-east, about 25 km, Libya to the east, about
approaches. Moreover, geochemical associations 1000 km, and Niger to the south, about 102 km.
are also involved [4,5]. A geospatial work was executed In the interior of the country, it is limited by Tamanrasset
by realizing fourteen (14) maps of the spatial distribution to the west and the county of Ouargla to the north [18].
of seven (7) parameters in Illizi town and Djanet town. It is divided into six municipalities:
Many factors such as the bedrock geology, soil Bordj Omar Driss, Deb Deb, In Aménas, Illizi, Djanet
properties, climatic conditions, and flow of water through and Bordj El Houes.
the environment. could influence the groundwater
chemistry. The bedrock formation chemistry and erosion Geological aspect:
which are considered as a physical process, control According to the national agency of hydrographic
the hydrogeochemical characteristics of groundwaters network (A.N.R.H), the city of Illizi is built on a plateau land
by the dissolution of minerals and the enrichment with consisting of the Lower Devonian clay-sandstone and
ions and other elements. [6]. The presence of nitrates Emsian clay-sandstone soils and Quaternary. To the north,
in groundwater with high concentrations is considered about 12 km outcrops the middle to upper undifferentiated
as a pollution type which the main source of nitrates Devonian layers, these are overcome much further north
is the practice of irrigation activities, could be also due to by Upper Devonian to Carboniferous layers formed mainly
the industry or wastewater, where they influence also by the Khenig sandstone, upper Famennian at Tournaisien,
on salinization and considered as an anthropogenic with average coastlines of 550 to 650 meters may have
impact. [7,8]. In Algeria, Groundwater quality peaks exceeding 700 meters. This difference in elevation
has been investigated by many researchers [9-15]. gives rise to a landscape of canyons favoring the runoff
Multivariate Statistical Tchniques (MST) help in the of water and the acceleration of flows.

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Fig 1: a,b, localization of ILLIZI county, sampling locations.

To the south and beyond 8 km are the lower Devonian

formations, which are recognized under the name
formations of the Oued Samène (Siegenien). Their
altitudes exceed 700 meters. These formations constitute
a tectonic domain, with frank deformations and major
fractures. affected by important faults spread over several
tens of kilometers and have a north-south direction, and
others less important of east-west direction.
In the strict sense, the geology of the state of Illizi
is presented under two large units distinct from the point
of view of lithostratigraphy, namely the crystalline basement
and the sedimentary cover. Fig. 2 present the different
geological layers founded in the eastern part of Algeria.

Hydrogeological aspect
According to the authority of agricultural development
in Saharan regions (CDARS), the hydrogeology of Illizi
region is characterized by several aquifer formations.
The region is characterized by a very extensive surface,
from which we can distinguish several aquifer horizons as
Fig. 2: Geological map of eastern Hoggar(Bertrand and Caby Cambro-Ordovician: The Cambro-Ordovician sandstone
(1981)) formations of Tassili, besides having a very low porosity,
are traversed by a system of cracking and faults. These
A plain landscape extends from the side of Tin-Tourha characteristics facilitate their circulation of water, tassili
to the northeast, the area of Halloufa to the east, and south sandstones have good permeability.
to the side of Gara Souf Mellene passing through Devonian (Illizi): it is recognized in Illizi and its
Adjnadjane to the Gara Tan Harab. This plain, on a radius surroundings, particularly in the north, by exploitation
of 8 km, is mainly composed of post-Mesozoic formations from 250 to 1450m respectively in the regions of Illizi
(Quaternary), with altimetry between 560 and 570 meters. and El Adeb Larach. The static level relative to the ground

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Kouadri S. & Samir K. Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

varies from one region to another: It is a few centimeters The Mio-Pliocene: Composed of an alternation
to a few meters in the high areas, on the other hand, of sands and clays, limiting to the extreme north-west
the water is springing north and east of Illizi. of the Wilaya, the aqueduct is that of the Mio-Pliocene.
The Carboniferous: This aquifer is exploited at depths It is exploited in the area of Rhourd Nouss and El Hamra
ranging from 800 to 1100 m in the region of In Aménas. by drilling 160 to 300m deep. The water is pumped off
Water drained by "lifting" is used only for maintaining the at varying levels between 80 and 100m.
pressure of the oil slicks and irrigation; the static level The Infero-Flux (Oued Illizi): The geophysical study
varies between 200 and 300m. carried out in 1970 by electric sounding refraction allows
The aquifer system of the Continental Intercalaire (CI): us to specify the extension of the alluvial filling. The latter
It occupies the stratigraphic interval between the Triassic is notched in the Middle Devonian formations. relatively
and the summit of the Albian. The aquifer levels are large area. The average thickness of the aquifer is 25m, and
mainly contained in the Barremian and Albian, which floods of the wadi are annual. The depth of the boreholes
consist of sandstone and sandy-clayey Lower Cretaceous capturing this aquifer is of the order of 40 to 50m while the
continental deposits. It drains the sandstone and clay- static level varies between 2 to 10m; the chemical quality
sandstone formations of the Triassic and Jurassic in the of the water is relatively good.
region of Stah and In Aménas (in its regions the CI is called The Infero-Flux (Bordj El Haoues): This sheet is requested
the Zaraitine and Taouratin Series), from Barremian and by 05puits (generally dispersed in the palm groves) and 02
Albien to Deb Deb and Albien to BOD and RhourdNouss. boreholes, which constitute an important source of water
The aquifer is captured either by medium-depth (400 to supply for the population of Bordj El Haoues and
500m), T.F.T, Ohanet, and B.O.D drilling, or relatively the agglomeration of Ihrir (tourist site at 80 km from Bordj
deep (800 to 1200m) at RhourdNouss and the north of El Haoues).This sheet consists of alluvial wadis. It is used
Deb Deb. The waters of the sheet are gushing at mainly for irrigation and drinking water supply, the water
RhourdNouss, Bordj Omar Driss, Tabankort, Maouar, of this table is of good quality; the dry residue varies
ZemeletMederba, and the north of Deb Deb; they are exploited between 320 to 860 mg / l.
by pumping at varying depths (from a few meters to 300m) The Infero-Flux (Alluvial) of Oued Djanet: Before
at Tinfouyé, Ohanet, south of Deb Deb and Stah; the power the discovery of the Cambro-Ordovician aquifer, the alluvial
of the useful tank is greater than 250m. Static pressure aquifer of Wadi Djanet was the main and only water
measurements indicate values that can reach 18 bars resource of the region. It is a small aquifer covering an area
(egRhourdNouss, gushing water). of 17 km²; they are heterogeneous alluviums, ranging from
The aquifer system of the Terminal Complex (CT): silty sand to pebbles of small size resting on about twenty
Due to its depth close to the ground and its ease of capture, kilometers. Currently, it is requested by 24 boreholes
the aquifer of the terminal complex (CT) is very much (including 01 wells) including 09 boreholes and 01 wells
in demand for the supply of drinking water and irrigation. are in service (we note that several wells are missing after
The total number of holes in this sheet is 33, the whole is the last flood); the water of this sheet is of good quality,
in use; these holes capture the following horizons: the dry residue varies between 146 to 340 mg /L.
The Turonian: Is formed by limestones and constitutes
a free aquifer, locally cracked. Its depth varies between EXPERIMENTAL SECTION
200 to 400m, the average thickness is of the order of 80m Sampling and physicochemical analysis
and rests on an impermeable substratum of Cenenomanian During 2018–2019, a total of forty-four (44) samples
anhydritic and clayey; Its dry residue is high, generally of groundwater were collected from six different layers
exceeding 6 g/L. The total number of boreholes that (lower Devonian, Mio-Pliocene, Infero Flux, Cambro
captures the Turonian in this area is three (03) of which Ordovician, Albian, and Zaraitine), to investigate the
one (01) is plugged (Fort Saint III) and 02 artesian, flow quality of this water for irrigation use, samples locations
into the wild with an unknown flow (Fort Saint I and and exploited layers shown in (Table 1). The location of each
Fort Saint II ), causing large swamps to spread across site, the coordinates, and the elevation of the sampling
the Algero-Libyan and Algero-Tunisian borders. location were taken from Google earth. 1.5 L plastic

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bottles used to collect the samples. All the bottles Table 1: sampling location and samples ID
had been cleaned with tap water and then distilled water. Well Sample ID location layer
During field preparation, the bottles had been washed ZHUN 101 D1 ILLIZI
by the sample water itself before sampling. The vials ZHUN 102 D2 ILLIZI
were rinsed thoroughly with the sample water to ensure that ZHUN 103 D3 ILLIZI

LOWER DEVONIAN
the sample is representative of the water source. After collecting zone activ D4 ILLIZI
the water samples, we give each vial a proper label for Ain el kours D5 ILLIZI
identification, then we packed it all in a special box and Takbalt D6 ILLIZI
transported it to the “laboratory of water and environment Tintourha D7 ILLIZI
engineering in the Saharan environment, Ouargla” for Sidi bouslah D8 ILLIZI
analysis. Groundwater quality parameters used in the Tinemri D9 ILLIZI
Examination included potential hydrogen (pH), Electrical Fadnoune D10 FADNOUN
Conductivity (EC), temperature (C°), salinity, major Belbachir D11 ILLIZI
cations include sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), magnesium (Mg2+) Puit ABB M1 EL MERK
and calcium (Ca2+), major anions include chloride (Cl-), EMK 8 M2 EL MERK

MIO PLIOCENE
sulfate (SO42-), bicarbonate (HCO3-). To do the necessary CEVELEC M3 EL MERK
analysis we relied on flame Atomic Absorption CWAA M4 EL MERK
Spectrophotometer (AAS), the material used for measuring CPF 2 M5 EL MERK
the major anions and cations referencing under “Analytik BDV3 M6 EL MERK
Jena, NovAA 350”, while the physical parameters BDV4 M7 EL MERK
(pH, EC, °C, and salinity) were measured on the field using ANP M8 EL MERK
a multi-parameter referencing under “HANNA HI9829”, Aba I1 DJANET
other calculation formulas were used to analyze the water Zalouaz I2 DJANET
quality variables. These various water quality parameters Ajahil I3 DJANET

INRERO FLUX
were calculated and classified to determine the suitability Kanfar 3 I7 DJANET
of irrigation groundwater quality based on the recommendation inabarber 2 I8 DJANET
of Eaton (1950)[19], Ayers and Westcot (1985)[20], and Ifri I4 DJANET
Todd and Mays (2005)[21]. Kanfar 1 I5 DJANET
The precision of chemical analysis is specified Tagharghert I9 DJANET
by the calculation of ionic balances of each sample, error Kanfar 2 I6 DJANET
values below ± 5% are the best analytical estimation and Tagharghert p C2 DJANET ORDOVICIAN
the accepted error level is no more than ± 10% [22-24]. inabarber C1 DJANET CAMBRO
If the error percentage exceeds ± 10%, it means that Tabekai C3 B EL HAOUAS
the existence of some errors in calculation or in sampling. dajiene 102 C4 B EL HAOUAS
The IB error values of the studied samples had an average Debdab 1 A1 DEBDAB
value of 3.35 %, a minimum value of 2%, and a maximum Debdab 2 A2 DEBDAB ALBIAN
value up to 12%, a totally 79% of the founded ionic Debdab zhun A3 DEBDAB
balances under 5%, 16% under 10% and 5% of samples H10 Z1 IN AMENAS
had an IB value of -12%. H7 Z2 IN AMENAS
Station Brut Z3 IN AMENAS
ZARAITINE

Hydro-geo-chemistry H8 Z4 IN AMENAS
The hydro-geo-chemical study is based on a number MR104 Z5 IN AMENAS
of indices and parameters used to detect the suitability of Base vie sonat Z6 IN AMENAS
groundwater quality for drinking and irrigation purposes; ZR602 Z7 IN AMENAS
all the parameters and calculated indices are shown in Al607 Z8 IN AMENAS
Table 2 and Table 3, and the formulas used in the Ohanet Z9 IN AMENAS

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the calculation is presented. The Permeability Index (PI), and a maximum of 8.96, in the other hand, 11% of samples
is generally used to take an idea on the interactions showed a pH under 7, we speak here about one sample
between soil and aquifer [25]. Kelly's index, calculated from the Lower Devonian (Fednoune) and four samples
by the concentrations of Na+ against Ca2+ and Mg2+, from the Infero Flux (Aba, Khanfar 1, Khanfar 2 and
is measured in samples, and the water is classified Khanfar 3), in general, 95% of water samples are respecting
according to excess or deficiency of sodium [26,27]. the guidelines. there is no dominant cation in the samples
If Kelly’s index is below 1, we say that water samples are of Mio-Pliocene, Cambro-Ordovician, and Albian, while
suitable for irrigation. The Total Hardness (TH) is the groundwater of the Infero-Flux, Zaraitine, and Lower
an indicator of the mineral content in a water sample Devonian showed that there were no dominant cations
in the function of Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations. Four in 56% and 77% and 45% of samples with the presence
categories can be found to classify water samples: soft, of magnesium as a dominant cation in 22% and 33%
moderately hard, hard, and very hard [28]. Sodium and calcium by 55 % respectively. The descending order
percentage (%Na) or Soluble Sodium Percentage (SSP) of cations in the studied layers founded as follow:
is a very important parameter to detect the Na+ diffusion. Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > K+ in the Lower Devonian
Hazard and water hardness are inversely correlated with and Cambro Ordovician , Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+ in the
the sodium values [29]. The sodium hazard of irrigation Mio-Pliocene, Infero-Flux and Albian, Na+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ > K+
water can be evaluated using the Sodium Adsorption Ratio in the Zaraitine layer. The Na/Cl ratio average equal to
(SAR) [30], SAR is the balance between calcium (Ca 2+) 1.29 (greater than 1), typically suggests that the Na + ion
plus magnesium (Mg2+) ions and sodium (Na2+) ions which source is the dissolution of silicate minerals and
gives us an idea about how much soil particles with is associated with Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions in the samples [31].
a negative charge are stick together or flocculated. On the other hand, the descending order of anions is
Flocculation is desirable because it’s made water as follow: SO42- > Cl- > HCO3- > NO3- in the Mio-Pliocene,
movements and plant roots gown difficult. There are four Infero-flux, Albian and Zaraitine, SO42- > HCO3- > Cl- > NO3-
classes of the possibility of the soil sodicity hazard that is in the Lower Devonian and HCO3- > SO42- > Cl- > NO3-
related to SAR values: low if SAR < 10), medium if SAR in the Cambro-Ordovician. The lithology of the study area
10–18, high if SAR, 18–26, and very high if SAR > 26. explains the main source of SO42- and HCO3-which is the
We have drawn all of Piper, USSL, and Wilcox diagrams presence of gypsum and sedimentary carbonate rocks
according to the finding chemical analyses, after that we (Cambro-Ordovician) in the geological formations
determined the type and the different indices of water respectively [32]. NO3- is usually considered a minor anion
suitability for irrigation. Furthermore, a description of the in unpolluted water, their high concentration is an
spatial distribution of Nitrates (NO3-), Electro indication of agricultural excessive use of fertilizer or
Conductivity (EC), Total Hardness (TH), potential mineral fertilizers. [7,33]
hydrogen (pH), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Kelly
Index (KI), and permeability index (PI) is available Hydrogeochemical facies
in seven maps in two sites, Illizi town, and Djanet town. To find out the groundwater quality as well as
This mapping was done by the software surfer which the possible pathways for geochemical development,
consists of automated processing, the kriging method chosen we represent the chemical data of the main ions on a triple
to create the grids. Fig. 3 describes the methodology piper. Which consists of three well-defined fields:
adopted to determine the spatial variation of irrigation a diamond-shaped central field and two triangular fields
water quality suitability parameters. (positive ions and anions). By dropping the indicators in
the triple fields the general characteristics of the water
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION are represented in the central field. The plotted Piper
Hydrochemistry diagram (Fig. 4) shows that the hydrochemical facies of
After obtaining the results of groundwater analyzes of groundwater in Lower Devonian, Zaraitine, Mio-Pliocene,
the six layers, it became clear to us that Illizi has basic 50% of Cambro Ordovician wells and 55% of Infero-Flux
groundwater in 89% of samples, with a minimum of 6.16 wells is Cl-_SO42-_Ca2+_Mg2+, the facies of Albian layer is

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Fig. 3: Methodology adopted to determine the spatial distribution of irrigation water quality suitability parameters.

Cl-_Na+_K+ and the rest 50% of Cambro Ordovician and Ions: the chemical composition of lower Devonian
30% of Infero Flux is HCO3-_Ca+_Mg+. Water-type or groundwater conforms to Algerian guidelines, except in
categories that form the basis for one common Tinemri, Sidi Bouslah, TinTourha, and Ain Elkours wells,
classification scheme for natural waters. Lithology, where we find a high concentration of sulfate (SO42-) 405,
solution kinetics, and flow patterns of the aquifer control 425, 482, and 500 mg/L respectively. The presence of
hydrochemistry of any facies. [34] gypsum and anhydrite generally is the main reason of
those high values.
Water quality for drinking water purposes For the Mio Pliocene layer, we found that magnesium
To determent the suitability of the six layers of (Mg2+), bicarbonate (HCO3-), and Nitrate (NO3-) are presented
groundwater for drinking purposes, we compared in water with an acceptable value under the standards, we could
the analysis results with the standard guideline values add potassium (K+) as an adequate presence in the chemical
as recommended by the Regulation of Algeria and composition of groundwaters except in the CPF 2 and BDV 4
the World Health Organization (W.H.O.) [35]. wells where the concentrations exceed the value of the standard
pH: The six layers have suitable groundwater in 95% with 44.98 and 42.47 mg/L respectively. On the other hand, all
of samples according to the pH analysis results, with of the chloride (Cl-), Calcium (Ca2+), sodium (Na+) and
a minimum of 6.16 and a maximum of 8.96, two wells sulphate (SO42-) values have exceeded the maximal accepted
(Tagharghart and Khanfar 3) have a pH value under (6.16) value in all wells (except sulphate in CPF 2 well).
and higher (8.96) than the acceptable limit values. The chemical analysis results of Infero Flux, Cambro
Electroconductivity (EC): the analysis results show Ordovician, and Albian groundwaters show that the three
that all of the Lower Devonian, Cambro Ordovician, and layers have suitable water for drinking, except one well
the Albian layers have an EC value under the guidelines (Ajahil) of the Infero Flux where we found a high
values with a maximum value in the three layers equal to concentration of calcium and sulphate (236.58mg/l and
1442 µS/cm. On the other hand, the three other layers 746.43 mg/l respectively). We explain this case with the
(Mio-Pliocene, Infero Flux, and Zaraitine) have presence of gypsum and the depth of the well (7 meters)
groundwater exceed the acceptable limits with an average which favorit the infiltration of shallow waters and the
equal to 3662 µS/cm. accumulation of salts.
Total Hardness (TH): with mean values equal to 45.73 Zaraitine groundwaters used to have the worst
, 20.67 , 17, and 26 F° we consider the groundwaters of the chemical quality between the six layers studied in this
Lower Devonian , Infero Flux , Cambro Ordovician, and paper, all of Mg2+, Na+, So42-, Cl- and NO3- concentration
Albian layer as adequate groundwaters, in the other side exceed the maximal limit value in all wells except Z3, Z7,
we find that the mean values of total hardness in the Mio Z8 , Z9 for Mg2+, Z3, Z8, Z9 for Na+, Z8 and Z9 for SO42-
Pliocene and Zaraitine layer equal to 93.63 and 104.78 F° , Z1, Z2, Z8, Z9 for Cl- and Z1, Z2, Z3 for NO3-. This poor
are exceed the maximal accepted value for Algerian quality is due to two main factors, the first factor is the type
guidelines which is 50 F°. of activity in Ain Amenas zone (industry), and the second

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Table 2: Descriptive statistics of physicochemical properties of groundwater samples.

pH EC (µs/cm) TDS TH (F') Ca2+ Mg2+ Na+ K+ SO42- HCO3- Cl- NO32-

Lower Devonian

Max 8.40 991.00 1100.00 65.00 140.28 85.06 54.00 22.00 500.00 292.80 133.00 0.70

Min 6.76 353.00 236.00 15.00 30.00 17.40 20.10 0.80 62.50 73.91 20.00 0.00

Avg 8.00 472.00 762.91 45.73 111.67 43.34 43.65 12.12 359.05 138.39 54.64 0.19

range 1.64 638.00 864.00 50.00 110.28 67.66 33.90 21.20 437.50 218.89 113.00 0.70

SD 0.57 181.79 224.52 13.80 31.19 22.20 9.07 6.84 118.20 64.27 32.22 0.20

Mio-Pliocene

Max 7.90 3120.00 2473.00 123.00 325.25 126.22 313.20 44.98 1127.50 129.50 563.77 46.70

Min 7.60 2225.00 1646.00 76.00 194.39 67.49 214.20 23.81 573.50 87.57 436.12 39.00

Avg 7.71 2444.38 1887.38 93.63 231.14 87.61 242.66 30.26 707.69 108.51 479.56 42.25

range 0.30 895.00 827.00 47.00 130.86 58.73 99.00 21.17 554.00 41.93 127.65 7.70

SD 0.10 279.94 285.24 17.93 45.25 18.64 31.19 8.46 202.31 12.53 40.33 2.30

The Infero-Flux (Alluvial) of Oued Djanet

Max 8.96 1688.00 1447.00 69.00 236.58 28.80 191.26 7.00 746.43 207.40 241.40 11.00

Min 6.16 210.00 149.00 10.00 10.00 4.80 4.00 1.00 22.00 3.33 0.00 0.00

Avg 7.25 663.67 447.56 20.67 53.94 17.56 59.16 3.78 136.43 87.42 89.17 3.31

range 2.80 1478.00 1298.00 59.00 226.58 24.00 187.26 6.00 724.43 204.07 241.40 11.00

SD 0.82 448.10 385.96 18.34 70.44 10.05 55.10 1.79 233.04 73.41 84.29 4.65

Cambro-Ordovician

Max 7.52 532.00 508.00 34.00 80.00 33.60 66.00 4.00 188.32 216.55 127.80 5.80

Min 7.00 193.00 183.00 9.00 18.44 8.20 13.00 0.80 6.00 15.81 3.00 0.00

Avg 7.33 351.75 333.00 17.00 42.74 15.40 35.36 2.85 69.32 107.28 59.93 2.58

range 0.52 339.00 325.00 25.00 61.56 25.40 53.00 3.20 182.32 200.74 124.80 5.80

SD 0.24 166.79 156.67 11.63 27.18 12.16 22.55 1.41 81.25 96.08 51.92 3.02

CI Albian

Max 7.86 1442.00 1001.00 27.00 64.00 29.00 200.00 45.00 260.00 201.00 249.00 7.00

Min 7.49 1321.00 938.00 25.00 60.00 24.00 180.00 3.00 240.00 200.00 195.00 0.00

Avg 7.63 1365.33 962.67 26.00 62.00 26.00 186.67 23.00 250.00 200.33 214.67 2.33

range 0.37 121.00 63.00 2.00 4.00 5.00 20.00 42.00 20.00 1.00 54.00 7.00

SD 0.20 66.67 33.65 1.00 2.00 2.65 11.55 21.07 10.00 0.58 29.84 4.04

CI Zaraitine (Taouratin Series)

Max 8.20 28570.00 2551.00 147.00 226.40 235.00 394.00 47.50 1330.32 270.00 582.00 164.83

Min 7.24 870.00 597.00 34.00 43.00 57.00 40.00 3.00 185.00 142.00 67.00 1.00

Avg 7.88 7877.78 1886.78 104.78 153.49 161.84 207.67 18.39 776.56 206.74 362.17 44.54

range 0.96 27700.00 1954.00 113.00 183.40 178.00 354.00 44.50 1145.32 128.00 515.00 163.83

SD 0.38 11254.63 692.91 36.90 60.39 62.44 115.63 15.66 377.09 48.10 196.34 62.29
Concentration of ions and TDS in mg/l); TDS-Total Dissolved Salts; min—minimum; max—maximum; avg—average; SD—standard deviation

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Hydro-Chemical Study with Geospatial Analysi ... Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

Permeability Index (PI): From the important physical

properties of soils, we find Porosity and permeability,
the permeability is defined as the ability of the soil to
transmit water and air. The long-term applications of
irrigation water affected soil permeability as it is influenced
by the groundwater which contains ions, such as Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+,
and HCO3- the content of the soil [37,38].
Doneen (1964)[39] suggests a method of classification
of irrigation water based on the Permeability Index (PI).
The expression of PI is given by the following formula.

Na 
 HCO3

1 0 0
PI 
2 2 
Ca  Mg  Na

Where concentrations are given in meq/l.

Fig. 4: Piper diagram for ILLIZI town hydrogeochemical facies. PI values >75, 25–75, and < 25 which fall in class I
(safe), class II (marginally safe), and class III (unsafe),
respectively, based on the Doneen method all the
the factor is the depth of wells that started from few meters.
groundwater samples from the six studied layers fall
We propose the examination of similar researches
in the safe and marginally safe classes.
in other zones of Algeria and other parameters of safe
Kelly Index (KI): describe the presence of Na+
water cited in the Algerian guidelines that are not studied
in the water according to the presence of Ca2+ and Mg2+
in this paper.
and calculated by the following formula of Kelly (1963).

Na
Suitability of groundwater for irrigation purposes KI 
2 2
Ca  Mg
The quality of groundwater was assessed by
comparison with guidelines established for livestock Where all concentration in meq/L.
and irrigation. The salinity and sodicity are considered Values less than 1 reveals the suitability of water for
as the principal elements in the judgment of irrigation water irrigation. In this study, we found that the Albian layer and
[36]. Table 2 summarized the results of analysis and the Ifri well from the Infero Flux layer exceed 1, which
deferent parameters determined, with a key statistical indicating groundwater is unsuitable for irrigation.
attribute. Based on Wilcox (1955) [29,40], we find that Lower
Groundwater intended for irrigation has an impact Devonian, Infero Flux, and the Cambro Ordovician layers
on both plants and soil, therefore, it is necessary to know samples are situating in excellent to good and good
their quality. Changes in soil permeability, soil structure, to the permissible category for irrigation uses according
and ventilation may be due to the high salt content to the water quality diagram (Fig. 5). in the other hand
in the groundwater. Drainage is a factor in crop growth. the Albian layer samples are considered as permissible
As long as there is good drainage, crop growth will be good, to doubtful. While the Mio-Pliocene and Zaraitine layers fell in the
and crop growth will be poor if there is poor drainage. doubtful to unsuitable and unsuitable category except the wells Z8
To assess the suitability of groundwater use in irrigation, and Z9 where they situate in good to permissible category.
it is necessary to identify the various characteristics of
The sodium percentage (Na %) is calculated using the
irrigation water, for this aim, the ratio of sodium
formula of Todd (1995) [41] given below:
absorption (SAR), permeability index (PI), Kelly Index
(KI), Sodium Solubility Percentage (SSP or N%), Residual
Na 
 K

100
Sodium Carbonate (RSC) and Magnesium Hazards (MH) SSP  Na%  
2 2  
were calculated and interpreted. Ca  Mg  Na  K

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Kouadri S. & Samir K. Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

100 USSL diagram (Fig. 7) used to plot SAR vs EC values

Sodium solubility percente (% Na)

90 of our samples, where SAR is calculated using the formula

80 given below [42].
70
60  2 2
SAR  Na Ca  Mg 2
50
40 Where all concentration in meq/L
30 From USSL diagram we find that samples of the
20
deferent layers fall in C1-S1 (low salinity with low
10
sodium), C2-S1 (medium salinity with low sodium),
0
0 200 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 C3-S1(high salinity with low sodium), C3-S2 (high salinity
Conductivity (S/cm) with medium sodium), and C4-S1(very high salinity with
low sodium) category. These groundwater samples show
low to very high salinity hazards with low to medium alkali
Fig. 5: Wilcox diagram for suitability of water for irrigation.
hazards. Based on the USSL diagram, the groundwater
32
samples are satisfactory for irrigation use in all soil types.
Eaton (1950) [19] suggested that Residual Sodium
Sodium adsorption ratio [SAR]

28
Carbonate (RSC) is defined by the formula:
24

20 RSC  HCO 
3  CO3

  Ca 2
 Mg
2

16
is a good index of the sodicity hazard of irrigation
12
water. The anions HCO3- and CO3- in the irrigation water
8
tend to precipitate calcium and magnesium ions in the soil
4
resulting in an increase in the proportion of the sodium
0 ions. For this reason, RSC was considered to be indicative
100 250 750 2250 5000
of the sodicity hazard of water. Wilcox (1958) concluded
Conductivity (S/cm) that water with more than 2.5 mmol (+)/1 of RSC is not
suitable for irrigation. Water containing 1.25 to 2.5 mmol
Fig. 6: USSL salinity hazard diagram for classification of water (+)/1 was considered marginal and that with less than 1.25
for irrigation. mmol (+)/1 is probably safe.
All the analyzed samples from the deferent six layers
fall in the “probably safe” category.
The presence of magnesium in high concentrations
1.0
in irrigation water negatively affects the soil quality by
converting it to alkaline soils, which leads to a decrease
0.5
in the yield of agricultural crops [45].
Conponent 2

In 1964, Szabolcs [46] proposed an indicator called

0.0
MH to determine whether water samples were suitable for
-0.5
use in irrigation.

2
Mg
-1.0 MH  100
2 2
Ca  Mg
-1.0 -0.5 0.0 0.5 1.0

Component 1 The MH ‹50 means that water is unsafe for irrigation

use, whereas › 50 suggests that water is safe for irrigation
Fig. 7: Projections of the groundwater sources from the six uses. As per this index, all the water samples of
studied layers in respect to the first two factors (PCA). Mio Pliocene, Cambro Ordovician, and Albian samples fall

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Table 3: irrigation water indices. under the safe category, whereas for Lower Devonian and
SAR PI SSP KI RSC MH Infero Flux samples the majority of samples fall under the
safe category, only a few samples fall in the unsafe
Lower Devonian
category, on the other hand, all the samples of Zaraitine
max 1.56 61.40 27.14 0.30 -1.63 54.11
layer fall under unsafe for agriculture use.
min 0.94 23.43 14.51 0.13 -11.3 24.43 After evaluating the groundwater samples quality
mean 1.27 38.55 20.04 0.22 -7.00 38.52 of the studied layers, and in order to verify the results obtained,
range 0.62 37.98 12.63 0.17 9.69 29.67
we have compared our finding with a set of analyzes
conducted by the “Directorate of Water Resources ILLIZI”
SD 0.20 11.16 3.67 0.05 2.60 11.14
in the years 2000 and 2002, through Fig. 8 we find that
Mio-Pliocene in the Lower Devonian and Mio Pliocene layers, there is some
max 5.54 43.94 40.55 0.61 -13.8 43.5 similarity between the old results and our finding, with
min 4.39 35.45 31.94 0.44 -23 34.12 a noticeable increase in the sulphate concentration in Lower
Devonian wells caused by the presence of gypsum in the
mean 4.87 42.02 37.75 0.57 -17.1 38.68
geological composition of the region. The Cambro-
range 1.15 8.50 8.61 0.16 9.16 9.41
Ordovician layer and according to the results of the
SD 0.32 2.79 2.49 0.05 3.48 2.83 comparison, there was an increase in the concentration
The Infero-Flux (Alluvial) of Oued Djanet of nitrates. The reason for this increase is the agricultural
activity known in the Djanet region. Attention is also drawn
max 4.47 105.12 55.44 1.20 0.24 82.36
to the high level of chlorine in groundwater with a slight
min 0.25 37.79 9.07 0.09 -13.8 12.26
increase in the amount of sodium due to the continuous
mean 2.39 67.11 36.59 0.61 -2.8 44.09 dissolution of both elements. Concerning the Albian layer,
range 4.23 67.33 46.37 1.12 14.02 70.10 we noticed a decrease in the concentration of almost all
SD 1.42 24.66 13.62 0.34 4.28 28.17 elements. This is due to the nature of the layer (captive layer), which
makes the stock of groundwaters in this layer non-renewable.
Cambro-Ordovician

max 3.26 117.44 48.80 0.93 0.46 46.46

min 0.79 26.11 19.68 0.23 -6.19 27.42

Principal Component Analysis (PCA)
The variety of studied layers push us to make
mean 1.75 74.42 33.28 0.52 -1.72 37.06
a comparison between their hydro-chemical characteristics,
range 2.47 91.33 29.12 0.69 6.65 19.04 PCA is considered as one of the useful methods to make
SD 1.08 44.09 13.54 0.33 3.11 8.43 a comparison between a large number of variables
CI Albian by explaining the same amount of variance with reducing
the number of variables (principal component).
Max 7.47 85.23 62.96 1.61 -1.91 44.62
The new variables generated have no relation to each
min 6.81 83.91 61.83 1.48 -2.24 39.22 other and they appear in a perpendicular way.
mean 7.07 84.42 62.30 1.54 -2.09 41.09 In our study, the results show that the first factor (all
range 0.66 1.31 1.13 0.12 0.33 5.40 analyzed variables) explains 89.68% of the total variability,
and the second factor accounts only for 7.90%. Through
SD 0.35 0.71 0.59 0.06 0.17 3.06
the ACP we concluded that the wells close to each other
CI Zaraitine (Taouratin Series)
located in the same space are collected, and this is evident
max 6.95 57.25 42.64 0.71 -3.69 72.44 in the wells of the Devonian layer, where we find that the well
min 1.04 34.46 12.70 0.14 -25.4 51.07 D10 (Fadnoun) is located far from the rest wells of the same
mean 3.79 42.04 28.91 0.41 -17.9 63.82
layer. Also, we notice the separation of the wells of the Infero Flux,
this is due to the difference in the depths of the wells, which
range 5.91 22.79 29.94 0.57 21.65 21.37
gives each well different chemical property according to the
SD 1.89 8.16 9.23 0.18 7.49 8.18 layers which the water passes through.

Research Article 1325

 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Kouadri S. & Samir K. Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

10000 10000

1000 1000

100 100

10 10

1 1

Ca2+

Mg2+

Na32-
Na+
K+
SO42-
HCO3-

Cl-
EC (s/cm)
pH

TH(F)
Ca2+

Mg2+

Na32-
Na+
K+
SO42-
HCO3-

Cl-
EC (s/cm)
pH

TH(F)

512 10000

256
128 1000
64
32
100
16
8
10
4
2
1 1
Ca2+
2+

2-
Na+
+

SO42-
-

Cl-
EC (s/cm)
pH

TH(F)

2+

Mg2+

Na32-
Na+
K+
SO42-
HCO3-

Cl-
EC (s/cm)
pH

TH(F)
HCO3
K

Na3
Mg

Ca

Fig. 8: Statistical comparison between hydrochemical analyzes from different years

From the analysis of the main component, we can say sequences of high hardness values the scaling of contact
that the hydrochemical quality of groundwater changes surfaces, problems in irrigation lines system, pipes, and
in two directions, the first horizontal, here we mean electrical appliances [36,43]. According to the W.H.O.
the change in geographical location, and the second guidelines [35], the SAR, SSP
vertical (perpendicular) as seen in the Infero Flux wells, (or %Na) and PI values (Table 3) of groundwaters
where the depths of wells control the main characteristics sampled in Illizi town confirm that the D/I aquifer is
of groundwater quality. suitable for irrigation purposes. NO3- values in groundwater
vary approximately from 0.94 mg/L to 1.56 mg/l. The highest
Geospatial evolution of groundwater quality value (1.56 mg/L) was observed in the north-western part
Fourteen (14) maps for ILLZI town and Djanet town of the aquifer within an area named (Tinemri), the waste-
(Fig.9 a,b) were gridded using GIS software represent water rejection in this zone is considered as the probable
seven hydro-chemical parameters (SAR, TH, pH, NO3-, reason for the presence of nitrate in groundwater.
KI, EC, and PI) for the aim of creating corresponding The highest values of KI (0.56 and 0.77 meq/L) founded
geospatial distribution models (Fig. 10) (Fig. 11). This part in zone ZHUN 102. This problem may appear when
of our study permits geospatial analysis of groundwater irrigation water contains relatively more sodium ions than
quality and detects suitable sub-areas for irrigation. Illizi calcium and magnesium ions (KI). For easy movement
town has very hard groundwater (TH > 50 F°) with of water and air through soil ports, a good structure made
a maximum value up to 65 F° in the northwest and by soils aggregates is dispensable, this latter is under
southeast parts of the area (Fig. 8). From the probable the threat of sodium (Na+) accumulation which may cause

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Hydro-Chemical Study with Geospatial Analysi ... Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

Fig. 9: Entier studied areas ILLIZI town (a), and Djanet town (b).

degradation. The Infero Flux in Djanet town characterized software and GIS techniques. The results show that the
with a remarque variety in total hardness values with hydrochemical facies of groundwater the six studied layers
a range equal to 59 F°, in Illizi county is as follow: Cl-_SO42-_Ca2+_Mg2+ for
The center part of Djanet has the maximal value of total the Lower Devonian (illizi) , Cl-_SO42-_Ca2+_Mg2+ for the
hardness (69 F°), we note also the presence of the maximal Zaraitine (In Amenas), Cl-_SO42-_Ca2+_Mg2+ for the
value of electroconductivity (1688 us/cm) in the same sub- Mio-Pliocene (El Merk), Cl-_SO42-_Ca2+_Mg2+ for 50%
area. The agriculture practices in the north part of the town of Cambro Ordovician (Djanet), Cl-_SO42-_Ca2+_Mg2+
cause a presence of nitrates in the groundwater, the in 55% of Infero-Flux (Djanet) wells, and Cl-_Na+_K+
geospatial distribution of (NO3-) shows the variation of in the Albian layer (Debdab).
nitrates between (inaberber 2) and (Kanfar 3) wells. We Groundwater resources in the studied layers from
note the maximal values of SAR and KI values in the different regions are controlled by many factors (physical,
south-east part of Djanet with values equal to 4.47 meq/l chemical) Where do we find her contribution lies
and 1.2 respectively. in the human activity, bedrock geology and hydrogeological
Referring to the WHO standards and the spatial setting, and depth of the layer groundwater.
distribution of hydro-chemical parameters (Fig. 10) and The suitability of groundwater quality for drinking
(Fig. 11), the south-eastern part of Illizi town and water purposes is evaluated based on comparison with
the western part of Djanet town are considered as the best the standard guideline values as recommended by the
sub-areas for agriculture practice using Lower Devonian Algerian standards and the World Health Organisation
and Infero Flux groundwaters respectively. (W.H.O.) [35]. The comparison shows that the
Concentrations of all the measured parameters are
CONCLUSIONS suitable for domestique use with regard to inorganic
This study is a common combination between physical pollutants, except in Zaraitine layer where we find that
and chemical analysis and geospatial distribution of all of Ca 2+, Mg2+, Na+, Cl- and NO 3- exceed
groundwater samples in Illizi county using different the maximal acceptable value.

Research Article 1327

 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Kouadri S. & Samir K. Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

2932000 2932000

2931000 2931000

2930000 2930000

2929000 2929000

2928000 2928000

444000 446000 448000 450000 444000 446000 448000 450000

2932000 2932000

2931000 2931000

2930000 2930000

2929000 2929000

2928000 2928000

444000 446000 448000 450000 444000 446000 448000 450000

2932000
2932000

2931000
2931000
2930000
2930000

2929000
2929000
2928000
2928000

444000 446000 448000 450000

444000 446000 448000 450000

2932000

2931000

2930000

2929000

2928000

444000 446000 448000 450000

Fig. 10: Geospatial distribution of indices and parameters analyzed in ILLIZI (lower Devonian layer.

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 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Hydro-Chemical Study with Geospatial Analysi ... Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

2720000 2720000 2720000 2720000

2715000 2715000 2715000 2715000

271000 271000 271000 271000

2705000 2705000 2705000 2705000

2700000 2700000 2700000 2700000

2720000 2720000 2720000

2715000 2715000 2715000

271000 271000 271000

2705000 2705000
2705000

2700000 2700000
2700000

Fig. 11: Geospatial distribution of indices and parameters analyzed in Djanet ( Infero Flux layer).

The suitability of groundwater for irrigation is of Albian layer considered as permissible for irrigation, the
evaluated based on permeability index (PI), Kelly Index Mio-Pliocene, and Zaraitine layers samples fall in doubtful
(KI), Solubility Sodium Percent (Na%), and Sodium and unsuitable for irrigation. Based on the USSL diagram
Absorption Ratio (SAR). Based on Solubility Sodium (SAR), All the groundwater samples are satisfactory for
Percent, samples of the Cambro Ordovician classified irrigation use in all soil types. Based on Kelly index (KI)
as the best waters for irrigation, while we find that the we found that all of lower Devonian, Mio-Pliocene, Infero
lower Devonian and the Infero Flux samples lie in Flux, Cambro Ordovician, and Zaraitine layer samples
excellent and good categories, in the other hand the waters have suitable waters for irrigation, while Albian

Research Article 1329

 Iran. J. Chem. Chem. Eng. Kouadri S. & Samir K. Vol. 40, No. 4, 2021

groundwaters and “Ifri” well (Infero Flux) considered as [6] Robinson G.R. Jr, Ayotte J.D., The Influence of
unsuitable with a KI value exceed 1. the Doneen diagram Geology and Land Use on Arsenic in Stream
shows that all samples from deferent layers are suitable for Sediments and Ground Waters in New England, USA.
irrigation in almost types of soil. Appl Geochem, 21: 1482–1497 (2006).
Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed that all [7] Nemc ˇic ´-Jurec J., Jazbec A., Point Source Pollution
analyzed variables have explained 89.68% of the total and Variability of Nitrate Concentrations in Water
variability. Another factor (geographical distribution) from Shallow Aquifers, Appl. Water Sci., 7(3): 1337–
accounts only for 7.90%. In the case of comparison with 1348 (2017).
lower Devonian wells in ILLIZI town and lower Devonian [8] Gautam S.K., Sharma D., Tripathi J.K., Ahirwar S.,
well in Fadnoun town in groundwater quality, we A Study of the Effectiveness of Sewage Treatment
confirmed that the local environmental conditions are a Plants in Delhi Region, Appl Water Sci., 3: 57–65
more important factor for groundwater quality than (2013).
geographical distribution. The geospatial analyses show [9] Bouderbala, Abdelkader, Nacéra Hadj Mohamed.
that the south-eastern part of Illizi town and the western "Groundwater Quality in an Alluvial Aquifer
part in Djanet town are the best sub-areas for agriculture Affected by the Anthropogenic and Natural Processes
practice using lower Devonian and Infero Flux in a Rural Area, North Algeria", in “Advances in
groundwaters respectively. Sustainable and Environmental Hydrology,
Hydrogeology, Hydrochemistry and Water
Received : Sep. 15, 2019 ; Accepted : May. 4, 2020 Resources”. Springer, 107-110. (2019).
[10] Bensaoula F., Bernard C., Mohammed A.,
"Assessment of Groundwater Resources in the
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