Investigation of The Manisa Karst Springs by Means of Water Chemistry and Isotope Hydrology

Water chemistry and environmental isotope analyses of the Manisa karst springs have been carried out in order to determine the origins, and reservoir capacities of these springs. Studies have also been directed towards incrustation and corrosion properties of the waters.
As a result of the water chemistry analyses, the general properties of the water samples are suitable for drinking from the standpoint of chemical and biological aspects. The hydrogen ion concentration of the waters is higher than 7. EC is generally lower than 650 micromho/cm. Chlorine and sulphate concentrations are much lower than the acceptable limits. The dominant salts are CaCO3 and MgCO3. The hardness of the waters is about 30°FH. In general, the spring waters tend to cause incrustation in pipes.
With the help of the stable isotopes (18O and D) and Tritium analyses, the recharge areas of the springs and the relation between them has been investigated and water points have been classified under three groups: 1st Group: G1, G2, G3 Ilica group; 2nd. Group: G4, G5, G6 Sarikiz group, 3rd Group: G9, G10, G11, G13, G14, Göksu group.