Torres Torres, Norma I.
Loading...
1 results
Publication Search Results
Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
Publication Effects of hydrogeological and anthropogenic factors on the distribution of emerging and legacy contaminants in the karst groundwater systems(2022-05-19) Torres Torres, Norma I.; Padilla-Cestero, Ingrid Y.; College of Engineering; Macchiavelli, Raúl E.; Segarra-García, Rafael; Muñoz-Barreto, Jonathan; Department of Civil Engineering; Hughes Merz, Kenneth S.The characteristics of the Karst Region of Northern Puerto Rico (KRNPR) make this aquifer highly productive, being an important source of groundwater for multiple purposes, but highly vulnerable to contamination. This aquifer has been subjected to contamination since 1980’s with chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs), phthalates, and nitrates from multiple sources. This research assesses the potential effects of hydrogeological and anthropogenic factors on the distribution of legacy and emerging groundwater contaminants in the karst groundwater system of northern Puerto Rico, characterized by both conduit and diffuse flow. Contaminant, hydrogeological, and anthropogenic data, collected from governmental agencies and current sampling campaign were analyzed using different spatial, temporal, and statistical techniques. Results from this research indicate that legacy and emerging groundwater contaminants are persistent and widespread in the karst aquifer of northern Puerto Rico since 1980’s, suggesting high vulnerability of this aquifer to contamination with CVOCs, phthalates and nitrates. The presence of those contaminants is influenced by multiple hydrogeological and anthropogenic factors and vary depending on the contaminant type. The high variability of hydraulic response of groundwater levels to precipitation and its relationship to different contaminants is influenced by the location, physical-chemical characteristics of the contaminants, and hydrogeological characteristics of the aquifer.