Work

Physicochemical Characterization of Desert Bay with Brine Discharge: A Case Study from Caldera Bay, Northern Chile

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Seawater desalination is considered the first option to meet the domestic and industrial requirements of freshwater in desert areas, such as the Atacama Desert (Chile). However, its environmental implications remain poorly characterized. This study evaluated the effects of brine discharge from a desalination plant located in Caldera Bay, where fishing and tourism coexist. Sampling was conducted at increasing distances from the outfall to assess physicochemical parameters, sediment metal content, and nutrient concentrations. The results revealed a clear spatial gradient: salinity decreased from 57.75 to 34.87 PSU and nitrate from 10.49 to 4.05 µM. The sediment samples near the outfall showed elevated concentrations of Al, Fe, and Cr(VI). These findings suggest that brine discharge alters water chemistry and sediment quality. This study highlights the need for long-term environmental monitoring and regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable desalination in sensitive coastal systems.

Source: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering

DOI: 10.3390/jmse13071199

Authors: Estefanía Bonnail, Yesenia Rojas-Lillo, T. DelValls, Edgardo Cruces

Institutions: University of Atacama, Corporación para el Desarrollo Sostenible del Urabá, Universidade Santa Cecília

Language: English

Topic: Marine and Coastal Ecosystems

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Life below water

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137