MEET hydrogeochemical monitoring platform for data analytics

ISPRA has developed a platform for the collection and analysis of data from a continuous hydrogeochemical monitoring network in the framework of MEET (Monitoring Earth’s Evolution and Tectonics) project, funded by the Ministry of Research (MUR) through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (Mission 4, Component 2, Investment Line 3.1). The platform allows for near real-time transmission of physico-chemical parameters such as water level, temperature, and electrical conductivity from wells and springs monitored using automated instrumentation.

Hydrogeochemical data, when systematized and integrated with geophysical and geological parameters, are useful for understanding seismic and volcanic activity at different temporal scales, as well as for monitoring water quality and quantity, i.e. environmental protection purposes. Hydrological variations (piezometric levels, spring flow rates, chemical and temperature changes) can reflect changes in the stress field within the Earth's crust. For instance, significant hydrological variations were observed during major earthquakes such as L'Aquila (2009), Emilia (2012), and Amatrice-Norcia (2016), as well as during historical events. However, in non-volcanic areas of Italy, systematic and prolonged monitoring of these parameters is still lacking.

Recent advances in geophysical prospecting and the analysis of hydrogeochemical variations related to volcanic and seismic phenomena have provided valuable information for identifying possible precursors. The existing monitoring network will be expanded with new stations provided by INGV, located at sites identified by ARPAs.

The collected data will be stored in a hybrid cloud system, based in ISPRA, to ensure access, interoperability, and continuous sharing of data at a transnational level, complying with INSPIRE technical standards and the FAIR principle. A new architecture has been designed to collect historical and real-time data, ensuring high quality and compliance. This includes an innovative engine for data storage, validation, and querying, which serves as the core of the system.

The system uses a No-SQL database with native APIs, enabling the publication of data through interoperable OGC INSPIRE services and interactive access via a responsive platform. The choice of a flexible search engine was driven by the need to handle an increasing volume of real-time data while maintaining high performance. An ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) procedure was implemented to transform the relational model into a document-based model, optimizing indexing and enhancing system performance. This approach allows response times up to ten times faster than the previous system.

Data governance is a critical aspect: a well-documented process has been defined to ensure quality and efficiency throughout the entire production cycle. The integration of these technologies significantly enhances monitoring and analysis capabilities, contributing to the development of a national and transnational network for hydrogeochemical and environmental monitoring.