Insights into the landslide processes by hydrogeochemical and isotopic characterization : The case study of the Slano blato landslide (SW Slovenia)

Debevec Jordanova, Galena (author), Kanduč, Tjaša (author), Vreča, Polona (author), Verbovšek, Timotej (author)

This study evaluates the role of groundwater in the dynamics of the Slano blato landslide using hydrogeochemical and stable isotope data. Results show that deep groundwater inflow significantly affected the landslide behavior, as demonstrated by pronounced hydrogeochemical and isotopic differences among springs. Springs within the landslide differ markedly from those in similar geological settings of the Vipava Valley, indicating a distinct local groundwater system. Groundwater is present within the landslide body even during dry periods. Waters originate mainly from a higher karstic recharge area and flow through deep flysch strata, particularly fractured sandstones, where they become enriched in dissolved ions, especially K+ and SO42−, and show increased mineralization in the lower parts of the landslide. Saturation indices indicate slight oversaturation with calcite and dolomite and equilibrium with quartz for most samples, reflecting interaction with carbonates and flysch sandstones. Elevated sulphate concentrations and near-equilibrium conditions for mirabilite and thenardite suggest salt-related deterioration of landslide material, enhanced by evaporation. Stable isotope data (δ13CDIC, δ18O, δ2H) indicate dominant carbonate recharge, meteoric origin, evaporation effects, and long-term waterrock interaction. This study highlights the need for additional isotope tracers, groundwater age indicators, seasonal monitoring, and on-site meteorological measurements to improve interpretation.

• Language: English
• Keywords: earth flow, mud flow, groundwater, stable isotopes, hydrogeochemistry, slope mass movements
• Work type: Article
• Typology: 1.01 - Original Scientific Article
• Organization: NTF - Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering
• Publication status: Published
• Publication version: Author Accepted Manuscript
• Publication date: 27.01.2026
• Year: 2026
• Number of pages: Str. 1-24
• Numbering: Vol. 18, iss. 3
• PID: 20.500.12556/RUL-178709
• UDC: 55
• ISSN on article: 2073-4441
• DOI: 10.3390/w18030318
• COBISS.SI-ID: 266581763
• Publication date in RUL: 17.02.2026

Record is a part of a journal

• Title: Water
• Shortened title: Water
• Publisher: MDPI
• ISSN: 2073-4441
• COBISS.SI-ID: 36731653

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• Link: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
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