Statistical approaches for the identification of the origin mineralization groundwaters: case of the Naama Region, Far West-Algeria

Understanding the processes controlling groundwater mineralization is critical for preserving its quality and ensuring sustainable resource management, especially in regions like Naama, Algeria, which rely exclusively on groundwater. This resource faces severe overexploitation and high salinity due to climatic factors and increasing industrial, agricultural, and domestic demands, posing significant challenges to its long-term usability. Hydrochemical analyses, including graphical methods and multivariate statistical tools, were employed to investigate the groundwater chemistry and mechanisms influencing mineralization in the Naama region. The results revealed a relatively homogeneous distribution of groundwater samples, categorized into three hydrochemical groups. These groups are primarily dominated by calcium and magnesium chloride and sulfate waters, influenced by the geological characteristics of the region, such as gypsum-saline formations of the Upper Cretaceous and Triassic clay-gypsum-saline diapirs, and further impacted by inverse ion exchange processes. Group 1 is characterized by higher proportions of calcium and magnesium bicarbonate waters due to the dominance of carbonate formations from the Early Jurassic or Miocene, benefiting from more dynamic recharge zones. Groups 2 and 3 exhibit similar chemical compositions, but Group 3 is distinct for its restricted recharge zones and carbonate formations, leading to the emergence of calcium and magnesium bicarbonate waters. Recharge areas associated with carbonate formations were also vulnerable to anthropogenic pollution. These findings highlight the importance of implementing strict protection measures for sensitive recharge zones to ensure the preservation of this vital resource in the face of increasing environmental and human pressures.