Relatore: Awa Diagne – Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar (Senegal)

Abstract: The geological and hydrogeological study of Senegal highlights the complexity and diversity of the aquifers that traverse the country. The Precambrian basement, the sedimentary basin, and the volcanic rocks, with their varied aquifers, play a crucial role in groundwater supply. However, intensive exploitation and climate change have led to major problems of salinization and groundwater pollution, particularly in coastal and agricultural regions. The presence of chlorides and fluorides, as well as salinization due to seawater intrusion, are critical environmental issues for water management.The preliminary chemical analysis results of my research, entitled "Assessment of Salinity and Paleosalinity of the Paleocene and Eocene Intermediate Aquifer System in the Central Groundnut Basin: Use of Isotopic, Chemical, and Modeling Tools," reveal alkaline waters dominated by sodium and chloride ions. Mineralization is primarily due to rock weathering, with a significant influence from evaporation and salt intrusion.Furthermore, as part of my research stay, a geological model of the Paleocene and Eocene formations in my study area is being developed. This model provides an overview of the geological structure of the study area. It incorporates geological, geometric, and hydrogeological data and will be an important resource for other students and researchers.