Hydrogeochemical Characteristics and Groundwater Quality Evaluation Based on Multivariate Statistical Analysis

Abstract

Hydrogeochemical research and water quality evaluation are an important part of groundwater development and management projects in Dehui City, Jilin Province, China. We collected 217 groundwater samples in the study area and used two multivariate statistical methods, hierarchical cluster analysis and principal component analysis to classify groundwater; combined graphical method, piper diagram, and Gibbs diagram to characterize groundwater chemical types and distinguish the water chemical control mechanism; and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to evaluate groundwater quality. Three major categories have been identified. Most of the groundwater in the study area is Ca-HCO3 type water. The water chemistry control mechanism is determined to be based on water-rock interaction and less evaporation. From east to west in the study area, the total dissolved solids (TDS) gradually increased, and water quality gradually deteriorated. In the whole region, 79.26% of the groundwater is suitable for drinking. With Yinma River at the boundary, the water quality in the eastern part is excellent, while that in the southwest is poor. After appropriate treatment, it can be used in industry and agriculture. The excess NO3− is mainly affected by human activities. The unique geological conditions of the Songnen Plain result in an excess amount of Fe3+ and Mn2+ in some areas. This study determined the chemical characteristics of groundwater in the study area and distinguished water quality levels. The results will be helpful for the development and management of groundwater resources.

Keywords

• hierarchical cluster analysis
• principal component analysis
• fuzzy comprehensive evaluation
• hydrogeochemistry
• groundwater quality evaluation