Comprehensive Hydrogeological Analysis of the Beni Amir Deposit in the Oulad Abdoun Phosphate Basin, Morocco
摘要
The Oulad Abdoun phosphate basin contains 13 deposits within seven distinct phosphate layers that have been identified by the analysis of numerous geological logs. Situated in the southern part of this phosphate basin, the Beni Amir deposit is on the verge of mining operations. However, its extraction process presents unique challenges. One of the major obstacles is the presence of groundwater, which can either partially or completely submerge the phosphate layers. To address this issue, necessitating a dewatering process, a hydrogeological study was conducted to facilitate informed decision-making and ensure sustainable phosphate extraction in the deposit, while considering the implications of water stress and climate change on groundwater availability. The study involved several steps. First, geological and hydrogeological data were collected and analyzed to develop a hydro-stratigraphic conceptual model that detailed the intersection between the phosphate layers and the water table. The model was based on data from 692 boreholes distributed across the study area. Then, a series of cross-sections were generated based on this model to visualize the piezometric level above the phosphate layers. Subsequently, a delineation map was created to identify the extent of the saturated zone, where the phosphate layers were submerged, as well as the dry zones. This map's finding revealed that ≈73% of the Beni Amir deposit was at least partially submerged by the aquifer, while the remaining 27% was dry. Subsequent research can be directed towards creating advanced numerical models that focus on groundwater dynamics, verifying hypotheses concerning the inflow and outflow of water. A correct analysis of the results yielded by these models, along with a clear understanding of their inherent limitations, will be crucial for enhancing water management strategies, analyzing potential future scenarios considering the effects of water stress and climate change, and ultimately securing the sustainable extraction of phosphate from the Beni Amir deposit.