An Integrated Approach for Deciphering Hydrogeochemical Processes during Seawater Intrusion in Coastal Aquifers

For managing the freshwater in worldwide coastal aquifers, it is imperative to understand hydrogeochemical processes and flow patterns mixing freshwater/saltwater zone. The Egyptian Nile Delta aquifer a typical example. management of seawater intrusion (SWI) requires detailed investigations wedge dynamic Thus, multidisciplinary approach was applied based on holistic hydrogeochemical, statistical analysis, DC resistivity measurements investigate lateral vertical changes groundwater characteristics undergoing salinization stressor. results cross plots ionic deviations major ions, hydrochemical facies evolution diagram (HFE-D), index (SMI) were integrated with show status SWI where phase predominates ~2/3 study are (~70 km radius) compositional thresholds Na, Mg, Cl, SO4 600, 145, 1200, 600 mg/L, respectively, indicating that wells higher concentrations than these affected by SWI. Moreover, demonstrate efficiency combining from heatmap provide large-scale characterization natural anthropogenic activities controlling support decision-makers for long-term groundwater.