Preliminary hydro-geochemistry characterization of the complex geological framework of the Coreca area (Calabria, South Italy).

Hydrogeochemical characterization combined with statistical methods has been used to investigate groundwater quality and related geochemical processes in the complex geological framework of Coreca (Calabria, South Italy). Coreca is characterized by a peculiar geological setting that affects the groundwater quality mainly exploited for irrigation use. Two groups of waters were identified: Ca-HCO3 waters strongly controlled by the interaction with Ca-rich phases; Mg-HCO3 waters related to the interaction of meteoric water with the metamorphic Units. In Mg-HCO3 group was identified a good correlation between Cr and Ni (not observed in Ca waters) and a negative correlation between Cr, Ca and Al in agreement with direct interaction with ultramafic rocks characterized by low concentration in CaO and Al2O3. The concentration of major and trace elements has been compared with the Italian law limit values and the drinking water guidelines provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). Only samples S20, S25 and S29 showed Mn and Ni concentration higher than the Italian law threshold. The study allows defining how a multidisciplinary approach represents a useful tool to trace the factors controlling the groundwater evolution and quality especially in areas with an articulate geological and hydrogeological asset.