Groundwater flow and geochemical modeling of the Acque Albule thermal basin (Central Italy): a conceptual model for evaluating influences of human exploitation on flowpath and thermal resource availability

Abstract

Although the Acque Albule Basin has been studied since the middle of the 19th century, a comprehensive geologic conceptual model of the area has not yet been developed. The natural setting has been heavily modified by anthropic activities. Rapid evolution during the last 25 years has caused many interferences, which have led to a drastic increase of the hazards and linked risks, mainly related to water resource overexploitation and subsidence. The implementation of an exhaustive framework has become mandatory for environmental and management purposes. Starting from a critical review of previous studies, hydrogeologic and hydrogeochemical surveys and related numerical modeling have been carried out in order to achieve a quantitative understanding of the active phenomena and processes. Several hydrogeologic issues have been addressed concerning aquifer recharge areas and the different flowpaths of groundwater in respect to their division into a shallow and a deep circuit. Account has been taken of the groun...