Abstract Randomness of fracture networks still makes channelized flow a challenge to track in hard-rock aquifers. While not underestimating geological and hydrological criteria that are also handled here through mapping exercises, this study raises an issue of water quality encountered in lifelong boreholes. Chemical classification checked against a recent conceptual model of bedrock aquifers gives birth to a new typology of groundwater in a complex granitic aquifer system located in the SW of Ivory Coast (West Africa). Major ion chemistry, borehole completion data, digital elevation model and satellite images are used to interpret the geochemical water facies as an expression of connexions between the saprolite and the saprock, or transient insulation. From major ions ratios, cumulate mineralization, carbonate equilibrium, stable isotopes, the maturation of ground waters and mixing between bedrock layers are described at seasonal and local scales. The results highlight some vertical feeding of the water table into the main saprock aquifer owing to shortcuts through the saprolite, along with the existence of dead-ends in the hydraulically active fracture network. Also, some influence of fault zones, either drain or barrier, is confirmed on the (Ca, Mg) bicarbonate water facies within the saprock.

Abstract We describe an examination of two lines of evidence, tectono-structural evolution and hydrocarbon geochemistry, of asymmetric opening of the Atlantic Equatorial Margin. Our structural mapping used compilations of geophysical data and a review of both published literature and oil company public presentations. Geochemically, we accessed regional non-exclusive oil studies of the conjugate margins of Africa and South America, plus considerable published material. A group of non-exclusive oils was refined to 286, which clustered into five families, all represented along the NE Brazil margin but only one along the West African Transform (WAT) margin. Multiple lacustrine-sourced oils were seen around the South Atlantic, including NE Brazil, but a rich, oil-prone lacustrine source was not indicated offshore Ivory Coast and Ghana. Despite minor evidence of mixed source, possibly lacustrine stringers within an alluvial to marine setting, the predominant source is marine Cretaceous (Cenomanian–Turonian and possibly Albian). We find that opening asymmetry (a) biased the location of lacustrine (Early to mid-Cretaceous prerift to early synrift) source rocks to the NE Brazil margin and (b) locally narrowed the width of the optimal marine (Mid-Late Cretaceous postrift) WAT Margin source kitchens. Burial of the latter has aggravated the risk of late charge from light (condensate and gas) hydrocarbons.