Evaluation of the impact of asphaltite mines on the water quality of Nerdüş Stream (Şırnak)

Abstract

In this study, the water quality of Nerdüş Stream, which flows near the asphaltite mines operated in Şırnak city center, and the acidity effect of metal loads in the water originating from the mines were investigated. For this purpose, the physical parameters of water samples taken from the stream during dry and rainy periods, depending on seasonal changes, were determined by on-site measurements and major anion-cation contents were determined by laboratory analyses. Analyzes of the samples taken from the stream generally showed Ca+2+Mg+2>Na++K+, and it was determined that they were carbonated and sulphate type waters and HCO<inf>3</inf>-+CO<inf>3</inf>-2>Cl-+SO<inf>4</inf>-2. When the major anion-cation analysis results of water samples were evaluated according to WHO (2011) and TS 266 (2005) standards, it was determined that the elements were generally within the limit values, but they were not suitable for drinking purposes in terms of potassium content in the rainy period and sulfate content in the dry period. It has been evaluated that the TDS value is within the limit values of 300-900 mg/L and is in the "acceptable and fair" class, but the reason why this value is relatively high may be because the geological formations of asphaltite mines affect the chemistry of the water. Moreover, It was determined that the water samples were in the C2-C3 (Medium Saline – High Saline Water) class, and that there was no acidity caused by the mine since the water was neutral and had a low metal concentration content. It will be possible to use the water of Nerdüş Stream for plants other than those that need moderate salt and are sensitive to sodium. © 2024, Gumushane University. All rights reserved.