Hydrostratigraphy
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
Knowledge: ability to draw and manage quali- quantitative hydrostratigraphic conceptual models in 2- and 3D. Communication skills: how to describe the architecture of porous hydrostratigraphic systems and its impact on groundwater flow to final users of hydrogeological models.
Learning skills: application of geological, stratigraphic and sedimentological knowledge to hydrogeological modeling.
Learning skills: application of geological, stratigraphic and sedimentological knowledge to hydrogeological modeling.
Expected learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding: understanding heterogeneity of porous hydrostratigraphic systems at different scales, from the pore-granules system to the basin-fill.
Applying knowledge and understanding: knowing how to characterize sedimentary heterogeneity moving through scale, dimensionality (1D to 4D) and hierarchy. Making judgements. Acting to elaborate, evaluate and run quantitative hydrostratigraphic and hydrogeological models.
Applying knowledge and understanding: knowing how to characterize sedimentary heterogeneity moving through scale, dimensionality (1D to 4D) and hierarchy. Making judgements. Acting to elaborate, evaluate and run quantitative hydrostratigraphic and hydrogeological models.
Lesson period: First semester
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
1) Knowledge and application of methods for aquifer characterization and hydrostratigraphic reconstruction at different scales (local-regional): 1) scale and typology of sedimentary heterogeneity, 2) petrophysical parameters relevant to the hydrogeological characterization, 3) methods for evaluation, measurement and estimate of distribution of porosity and permeability at different scales, 4) anisotropy of petrophysical properties of sedimentary aquifers, aquitards and aquicludes, 5) glacial, glacio-fluvial, alluvial and deltaic aquifer groups, 6) methods and techniques to establish a conceptual aquifer model, 7) estimate of uncertainty.
2) Knowledge and application of the basic methods and techniques of hydrostratigraphic correlation, applied to hydrogeology of porous media: 1) correlation techniques, 2) hierarchy and classification of stratigraphic units, 3) architectural elements, 4) hydrofacies, hydrostratigraphic unit (HU) and sequential HU, 5) identification and 3-D mapping of HU boundaries, 6) hydrostratigraphic conceptual model and recharge of aquifer units, 7) evaluation of uncertainty.
3) Introduction to hydrostratigraphy of rock aquifer groups in mountain settings. Examples from the Alps.
The Laboratory practical activity includes exercises on hydrostratigraphic reconstruction at different scales (local to regional, i.e. from hydrofacies associations to aquifer systems, complexes and groups) in different geological environments (glacial, alluvial fan, braided to meandering river settings).
2) Knowledge and application of the basic methods and techniques of hydrostratigraphic correlation, applied to hydrogeology of porous media: 1) correlation techniques, 2) hierarchy and classification of stratigraphic units, 3) architectural elements, 4) hydrofacies, hydrostratigraphic unit (HU) and sequential HU, 5) identification and 3-D mapping of HU boundaries, 6) hydrostratigraphic conceptual model and recharge of aquifer units, 7) evaluation of uncertainty.
3) Introduction to hydrostratigraphy of rock aquifer groups in mountain settings. Examples from the Alps.
The Laboratory practical activity includes exercises on hydrostratigraphic reconstruction at different scales (local to regional, i.e. from hydrofacies associations to aquifer systems, complexes and groups) in different geological environments (glacial, alluvial fan, braided to meandering river settings).
Prerequisites for admission
Bachelor Degree in Geological Sciences
Teaching methods
Frontal lectures, laboratory practicals, personal practicals and tutored study sessions.
Teaching Resources
Bibliography, textbooks and practicals supplied by the lecturer during lectures and posted to ARIEL before the start of the lectures. Materials for exercises are provided directly during lab-work, including the basic literature and the exercises themselves, in paper and digital formats.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Oral interview based on exercises worked out during lectures, personal and team activity and tutored study sessions
GEO/02 - STRATIGRAPHY AND SEDIMENTOLOGY - University credits: 6
Practicals: 48 hours
Lessons: 16 hours
Lessons: 16 hours
Professor:
Bersezio Riccardo
Professor(s)
Reception:
Everyday 8.30 am - 6.30 pm
Earth Science Department, via Mangiagalli 34, 3rd floor