Análisis de la capacidad catiónica y aniónica del agua en el manto freático del sistema palustre de la laguna de anteojos para el uso de actividades agrícolas

Abstract

The aim of the current research was to analyze the cationic and anionic capacity of water in the groundwater table of the Laguna de Anteojos marsh system, located in the Llanganates National Park, Salcedo County, Cotopaxi province, in order to develop agricultural activities. Nine phreatic wells were placed for their respective analysis during the period December 2021 and January-February 2022. The rainfall and temperature incidence from 1991 to 2021 was analyzed through descriptive statistics. The water table was analyzed by IDW interpolation for each well. The pH and electrical conductivity (EC) were obtained in situ with the use of a portable multiparameter. The concentration of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate and sulfate were measured using Standard Methods in the Instrumental Analysis laboratory and the (GIDAG) Environment and Climate Change Research Group laboratory, belonging to the Faculty of Science of Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo. The sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) was calculated. The annual rainfall results are from 112.29 mm to 112.49 mm, as well as annual average temperature from 6.85 °C to 12.38 °C. It is concluded that it is usually cold (90%) during the year. The highest phreatic level was evidenced in February, with 125,17m to 130.86m and it presents a northeast directionality of the water flow. The pH of P1 and P8 are out of range according to TULSMA regulation. The average RAS was 0.201 meq/L and (EC) 82.852 µS/cm. Pearson's method was applied between Cations and Anions variables, which revealed an existing correlation. P3, P4, P7 and P8 points were classified as C1S1 according to Richards diagram, since they present a low value of saline hazard and a medium value of sodium hazard; it means, this type of water is suitable for agricultural purposes. To obtain more accurate data, it is necessary to carry out longer sampling periods in future research; thus, a greater variability will be obtained.