Mapping of arsenic in volcanic aquifers in northwest Nicaragua to contribute to the management of drinking water in 70 communities

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5377/rtu.v14i40.21145

Keywords:

volcanic aquifers, arsenic in water, mapping of arsenic, water security

Abstract

For arsenic mapping, five monitoring campaigns were carried out (October 2022-February 2023), measuring water levels, field parameters and sampling for stable isotopes (44 sites) and arsenic (62 sites). Likewise, in the months of October 2022 and February 2023, samples for physical-chemical tests were collected (10 sites). In addition, a survey and sampling of geological material was carried out in January 2023. The routes and sources of arsenic distribution in groundwater are of geogenic origin (formations of Tertiary and Quaternary origin). The flow dynamics show that there are two recharges: regional and local; which is corroborated through the isotopic and hydrochemical results. The piezometric levels ranged between 80 and 60 m a.s.l. The concentrations of arsenic detected were lower than the detection limit of the method and 48 μg/L. Eight of the 62 monitored sites recorded values ​​higher than those allowed for human consumption by the WHO. Twelve water sources must be constantly monitored, due to the variation in concentrations presented during the study. The mapping reflects three areas that must be given special attention for adequate resource management and water security, because arsenic is a compound that bioaccumulates through water intake.

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Published

2025-10-15

How to Cite

Delgado Quezada, V., Flores Meza , Y. del C., & Reyes Altamirano, B. R. (2025). Mapping of arsenic in volcanic aquifers in northwest Nicaragua to contribute to the management of drinking water in 70 communities. Torreon Universitario Magazine, 14(40). https://doi.org/10.5377/rtu.v14i40.21145

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Section

Sciences