Análise físico-química das águas subterrâneas do município de Fortaleza: avaliação da qualidade para o consumo humano

Abstract

The present study an assessment of the physicochemical quality of groundwater in the municipality of Fortaleza, Ceará (Brazil), based on data collected from 2021 to 2025. The main objective was to verify the compliance of groundwater quality with the standards established by Brazilian environmental and public health regulations, particularly CONAMA Resolution No. 396/2008 and Ordinance GM/MS No. 888/2021. The parameters analyzed included chlorides, sodium, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity, pH, and total hardness, following laboratory procedures described in the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. The results indicated good water quality regarding the analyzed parameters. The parameters chloride, sodium, and TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) showed high compliance rates: 89.7%, 92.31%, and 87.18%, respectively. The pH generally remained within the recommended range (87.18%), although some samples showed a tendency toward acidification. Despite the presence of water with high hardness, total hardness showed 84.62% of samples in compliance, with most samples classified as soft or moderately soft water. Although electrical conductivity indicated that some samples might be unsuitable for human consumption, most of the samples could still be considered good or usable. Most samples (89.7%) were classified as freshwater, while a smaller portion (10.3%) exhibited brackish characteristics. These results highlight the relevance of continuous monitoring and the expansion of chemical analyses as essential strategies for the effective and sustainable management of groundwater resources in environmentally vulnerable urban areas.