Delineation of Aquifer Iron Content in Existing Borehole Using Joint Integrated Electrical Resistivity Imaging Technique, Ekeki, Bayelsa State
Abstract
This study explores the use of Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) to identify aquifers with varying iron levels in Ekeki, Bayelsa State, addressing the pressing issue of groundwater quality. High iron levels in drinking water can be a health and operational challenge, making it essential to pinpoint safe water sources. Using the Wenner-Schlumberger array, we examined two boreholes: Aquifer 1 (AQ1), containing clay-rich, fine-grained sediments at depths of 0–17.5 meters, and Aquifer 2 (AQ2), composed mainly of clean sands and gravel. The results revealed that AQ1 had low resistivity values (17.5–113 ?·m), indicating the presence of iron-rich minerals, with lab tests confirming a high iron concentration of 4.0 mg/L, far exceeding the WHO guideline of 0.3 mg/L. In contrast, AQ2 exhibited higher resistivity (209–1345 ?·m) and an iron concentration below 0.001 mg/L, making it a safer option. This study highlights how ERI can effectively map groundwater resources, providing a reliable tool to ensure safe and sustainable water supply for communities.
Keywords
Aquifers
High iron level
Wenner-Schlumberger array
boreholes
References
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