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Distribution of arsenic and other minor trace elements in the groundwater of Ischia Island (southern Italy)

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Environmental Geology

Abstract

The island of Ischia belongs to the active volcanic area of Naples. It is formed from Quaternary volcanic rocks and exhibits intense hydrothermal activity, which is manifested through numerous springs, fumaroles and sporadic geysers. The content of minor and trace elements in groundwater has been analyzed, including some elements that are considered toxic for humans. Mean concentrations of As, B, Fe, Mn, Sb, and Se in samples from 43 aquifer points exceed the WHO recommended values and the limits set by European and Italian legislation (98/83/CE and DM 471, respectively). In general, the spatial distribution of the elements follows a common pattern: it is governed by a marked structural control, which favors hydrochemical processes that liberate the elements into the water.

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Acknowledgements

The analytical data used in this study were obtained using funds from the Department of Vulcanology and Geophysics of the Universitá degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II” as part of my degree thesis, completed in June 2000 and directed by Professor Benedetto de Vivo. I am grateful for his help and advice during this work. My sincere thanks also go to Professor Antonio Pulido Bosch for his comments on the initial manuscript of this paper.

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  1. Department of Hydrogeology and Analytical Chemistry, University of Almeria, La Cañada San Urbano- CITE II-B, 04120, Almeria, Spain

    Linda Daniele

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Correspondence to Linda Daniele.

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Daniele, L. Distribution of arsenic and other minor trace elements in the groundwater of Ischia Island (southern Italy). Env Geol 46, 96–103 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00254-004-1018-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00254-004-1018-z

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