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Salinization of groundwater in the North German Basin: results from conjoint investigation of major, trace element and multi-isotope distribution

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Abstract

Conjoint consideration of distribution of major, rare earth elements (REE) and Y (combined to REY) and of H, O, C, S, Sr isotopes reveals that four types of groundwater are distinguishable by their chemical composition presented by spider patterns. REY patterns indicate thermo-saline deep water and two types of shallow saline groundwaters. Presence of connate waters is not detectable. Sr isotope ratios distinguish three sources of Sr: fast and slow weathering of biotite and K-feldspar in Pleistocene sediments, respectively, and dissolution of limestones. δ13C(DIC) indicate dissolution of limestone under closed and open system conditions. Numerous samples show δ13C(DIC) > 13‰ which is probably caused by incongruent dissolution of calcite and dolomite. The brines from below 1,000 m represent mixtures of pre-Pleistocene seawater or its evaporation brines and infiltrated post-Pleistocene precipitation. The shallow waters represent mixtures of Pleistocene and Recent precipitation salinized by dissolution of evaporites or by mixing with ascending brines. The distribution of water types is independent on geologic units and lithologies. Even the Tertiary Rupelian aquiclude does not prevent salinization of the upper aquifer.

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Acknowledgments

This study has been funded by the German Science Foundation (DFG) as part of SPP 1135 “Dynamics of sedimentary systems under varying stress conditions by example of the Central European Basin system”. We thank B. Hansen, University of Göttingen, for supplying Sr isotope ratios. The authors appreciated the critical comments of W. Kloppmann and an anonymous reviewer who improved the manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. GeoResearch Center Potsdam, 14743, Potsdam, Germany

    P. Möller, P. Dulski, U. Bayer & F. Magri

  2. UFZ Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, 06120, Halle, Germany

    S. M. Weise

  3. Free University Berlin, 12249, Berlin, Germany

    M. Tesmer & A. Pekdeger

  4. Hanoi University of Science, Hanoi, Vietnam

    M. Tesmer

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  1. P. Möller
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Correspondence to P. Möller.

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Möller, P., Weise, S.M., Tesmer, M. et al. Salinization of groundwater in the North German Basin: results from conjoint investigation of major, trace element and multi-isotope distribution. Int J Earth Sci (Geol Rundsch) 97, 1057–1073 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00531-007-0211-1

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