The effects of geochemical processes on groundwater chemistry and the health risks associated with fluoride intake in a semi-arid region of South India

摘要: This study attempts to establish the effects of subsurface geochemical processes based on hydrogeochemical attributes 61 well samples collected in a semi-arid region South India. The also provides health risks associated with consumption fluoride-enriched groundwater by rural people since is major source water supply Shanmuganadhi River basin. In this work, water–rock interaction diagrams, an entropy-weighted quality index (EWQI), and risk models as per United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) were prepared understand mechanism behind chemistry its role impacting health. About 72% these are mixed Ca2+–Mg2+–Cl− type, representing transition from freshwater brackish water, 36% them have fluoride above permissible limit (>1.5 mg l−1). An evaluation suggests that silicate weathering, carbonate dissolution reverse ion exchange mostly control hydrochemistry groundwater. EWQI characterizes about 30% unsuitable for drinking another 49% moderate quality. Human evaluated dividing population into seven different age groups estimating hazard quotient (HQ) total (THI) intake dermal contact fluoride-rich poses higher younger compared adults. 79% pose 5–12 month-old infants only could be potentially hazardous adults >23 years old. Our results suggest ADDdermal pathway indicates less ADDintake estimations.