Patterns of spatiotemporal variations in the hydrochemistry and controlling factors of bedrock aquifers in the northern region of the Linhuan mining area

Abstract

Systematically studying the hydrochemical evolution of bedrock groundwater in mining areas during mining process is crucial for effective groundwater resource management and coal mine production. The spatiotemporal characteristics and hydrochemical evolution patterns of the Permian fractured sandstone aquifer (PA) and the Carboniferous Taiyuan Formation limestone aquifer (CTA), both of which are directly associated with coal mining in the northern Linhuan mining area, China, were investigated using multivariate statistical analyses, hydrochemical graphical methods, ion ratio analysis, and a conceptual model. 72 groundwater samples, collected before and after mining, were classified into four groups by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). Principal component analysis (PCA) and ion ratio analysis indicated that water-rock interactions involve mineral dissolution (carbonates, gypsum, dolomite, silicates), cation exchange, and common ion effects. Hydrochemical evolution is influenced by bedrock paleotopography, aquifer hydraulic conductivity, and mining drainage. Paletopographic differences significantly influence water-rock interactions and spatial variability in hydrochemistry, with ion concentrations in groundwater increasing as paleotopographic elevation decreases. The pattern of hydraulic conductivity reflects the control exerted by variations in aquifer characteristics on mineral dissolution, leading to minor changes in hydrochemical characteristics. Mining activities disrupt the aquifer's reducing environment, resulting in a significant increase in groundwater SO₄²⁻ concentration. These findings provide insights and a solid theoretical foundation for studying the hydrochemical variations patterns of groundwater and these control mechanisms in the hidden coal fields of North China.