Análise da qualidade da água de poços artesianos em zona rural do semiárido do Estado de Pernambuco

Analysis of water quality from artesian wells in the in rural area of the semiarid region of Pernambuco State

Abstract

About 30% of the freshwater available on the planet is groundwater, and this resource is widely used as an alternative source in northeastern Brazil. In the semi-arid region, groundwater plays an essential role in supplying cities and rural communities, often being the main source during drought periods. This study aimed to assess the water quality of the main artesian wells used for public supply in the rural area of the municipality of Passira-PE. Five wells were selected, two of which were equipped with desalination units. Throughout the research, seven water samples were collected, both before and after the use of desalination units, to verify their actual impact on water quality. The physical, chemical, and microbiological analyses included tests for total coliforms, Escherichia coli, calcium hardness, total hardness, alkalinity, salinity, turbidity, electrical conductivity, pH, and color. The results showed that all five wells failed to meet drinking water standards, particularly in terms of total hardness and the presence of total coliforms and Escherichia coli, which pose a significant public health risk. Desalination was crucial not only for reducing water salinity but also for lowering levels of pathogens, total hardness, alkalinity, salinity, and electrical conductivity.