A multidisciplinary approach to the physical and geometrical characterization of multi-layered aquifers

Recognition of the framework of complex aquifer systems is a key topic to analyse groundwater conditions and contaminant transport in heterogeneous and anisotropic aquifers. Groundwater models are useful tools for management and protection of water resources, but their predictive function is often constrained by a deficient characterization of hydrogeological parameters at a local scale. A wide variety of structural, volcanic and depositional processes produce a composite spatial distribution of hydraulic conductivity in alluvial aquifer systems. Groundwater flow and solute transport simulation in similar multilayer systems of several aquifers, aquitards and aquiclude needs a vast amount of observed data. Many tools for the knowledge of lithologic and stratigraphic features and of spatial heterogeneity at different scales are available, but it is essential to improve the hydrofacies models including in situ testing procedures that would better treat the rock strata connectivity and the geometry of aquifers. With regard to coastal alluvial aquifer system of the Sarno River plain (South Italy), this paper points out a multidisciplinary approach to delineate aquifer/aquitard unit and depict a realistic 3D modelling of the hydrogeological heterogeneity using geological, hydrogeological and geophysical techniques. Namely, due to its composite hydrodynamic conditions and to the high human impact, it has been chosen the sector of this plain located at the river mouth. Accordingly, this paper presents some interesting aspects to quantify the relationship between geophysical parameters and hydrostratigraphic properties of a highly heterogeneous alluvial aquifer system