Geochemical characterization of spring waters from the Tinerkouk region, southwestern Algeria

The present work focused on the geochemical characterization of spring water in the Tinerkouk region in southwestern Algeria. The suitability of the spring water for drinking was assessed using its physicochemical parameters, which included pH, total dissolved solids, major and minor cation and anion compositions, and electrical conductivity. These parameters were compared to Algerian regulations and WHO (World Health Organization) standards to see if the water met the requirements for both spring water and mineral water according to the prevailing standards in force. For this purpose, 43 spring water samples were collected from Tinerkouk region and especially from mineral water unit of Tazliza, during the period 2009-2022. The results obtained for pH, conductivity, sulfate, chloride, nitrate, sodium, and potassium, showed that the water samples from all the sampled springs were acceptable for consumption and within the acceptable limits in accordance with specified criteria, except for Oudghagh, Fatis, and Benzita. However, at these sites, TDS, conductivity, nitrates, and chlorides exceeded the acceptable values. It was also noted that, the spring water from the Tazliza unit is classified as excellent for drinking purposes and meets the permissible limits defined by the legislation for mineral and spring waters. The results also indicate that the predominant chemical facies of the Tazliza spring waters are chlorinated and sulfated sodium and potassium.