Detection and Evaluation of Groundwater in Siwa Oasis, Egypt Using Hydrogeochemical and Remote Sensing Data Analysis

Water Environ Res. 2018 May 1;90(5):465-478. doi: 10.2175/106143017X15131012153004.

Abstract

The present study aims to detect and evaluate the groundwater quality in Siwa Oasis using chemical and remote sensing data analysis. To carry out this goal, the data of Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) images have been used to discriminate the lithological rock units. ALOS radar remote sensing data with spatial resolution 12.5 m has been used to emphasize the predominant fault trends as well as detection of the buried structures. The chemical analysis of 39 groundwater samples was used to evaluate the suitability of groundwater for drinking and irrigation purposes by comparing those parameters with World Health Organization standards. Seventy-seven percent of the collected water samples are unsuitable for drinking. About 82% of the studied water samples are unsuitable for the industry. According to salinity index, SAR, Na%, magnesium hazard and Kelley ratio, most of the collected groundwater samples are considered unsuitable for irrigation purposes.

MeSH terms

  • Egypt
  • Environmental Monitoring*
  • Groundwater / analysis*
  • Remote Sensing Technology
  • Water Quality*
  • Water Supply