Geological Aspects Research Articles

Geology aspects and formation of the erosional structure of Upper Miocene deposits of the Western Cicaucasus

The results of regional studies of the Early Miocene deposits of the Western Ciscaucasia, carried out on the basis of seismic stratigraphic analysis, are presented. The spatial pattern of sediment accumulation is analyzed and the paleogeographic conditions during the regressive stages of the Late Miocene in the Western Ciscaucasia are clarified. Erosion incisions of several levels were identified, which developed during the fall of the erosion base level during major regressions in the studied time interval. By spatial correlation of paleochannels based on a selected series of intersecting seismic profiles, the buried river valleys of the Paleo-Don and Paleo-Donts were reconstructed and constructed at the Sarmatian‒Meotis boundaries and within the Late Meotis‒Late Pontian interval.

The Analysis of Geospatial Factors Necessary for the Planning, Design, and Construction of Agricultural Biogas Plants in the Context of Sustainable Development

This spatial analysis focuses on the relevant elements regarding the use of renewable energy sources, in particular, biogas, taking into account sustainability. The characteristics of the processes of biogas formation are presented, including the technological and biological aspects of its production. The issues of agricultural biogas plant profitability are discussed using examples from Poland, analyzing the economic and financial aspects of investing in this type of plant. Geospatial analysis supported by geographic information systems (GISs) looked at factors affecting the relief of the land and also the analysis of local plans or zoning decisions for the selected site. In addition, distance relationships and geological aspects taking into account terrain, landslides, and forestation, as well as hydrological aspects relating to flood and flooding hazards, were examined. It analyzed the availability of utility networks and proximity to road infrastructure. It was also examined that the proposed project will not have a negative impact on environmental protection. The analyzed site meets favorable conditions for the construction of the proposed project, and the conclusion drawn from this study is to emphasize the importance of integrating renewable energy sources with information systems to achieve sustainable development.

Geological and geochemical aspects of modeling of hydrocarbon systems

Forecasting the phase-genetic types of hydrocarbons is the most important stage in modelling geological hydrocarbon systems. This is because accurate qualitative and quantitative assessment of potential reserves is necessary for making informed investment decisions in exploration activities. Improving the precision of qualitative and quantitative oil and gas forecast can help reduce geological risks in asset development and increase investment efficiency. Therefore, technologies that allow modelling of hydrocarbon systems are becoming ever more important. This study aims to explore the key geological and geochemical aspects of hydrocarbon system modelling. Hydrocarbon systems refer to interconnected elements and geological processes influencing hydrocarbon formation in sedimentary basins. The study emphasizes that the "oil window" concept, or the theory of hydrocarbon formation phases, provides the theoretical basis for hydrocarbon systems. This concept consistently encompasses the entire history of sedimentary basin development, the evolution of thermal and thermobaric regimes in sedimentary deposits, the transformation of organic matter, hydrocarbon generation, migration, accumulation, and preservation processes. Using the results of modelling of hydrocarbon systems to evaluate geological risks and the economic impact of exploration activities can be a powerful instrument for companies that make investment decisions in geological exploration.

Enhancing forensic applications through the mineralogy of clays in surface soil horizon: A case study of baixada fluminense, Southeast Brazil

Clay minerals possess chemical, mineralogical, and crystallographic characteristics that make them potential forensic markers, as they can reflect geochemical and weathering processes on a detailed scale. Therefore, this study aims to use the mineralogy of the clay fraction to distinguish samples from the surface soil horizons in four municipalities in Brazil, to assess the possibility of geographical tracking for forensic applications. Studies characterizing clays in environments with a variety of soil types in forensic pedology are necessary but still in their early stages. Furthermore, due to the high incidence of homicides involving the displacement of bodies in the region and the low resolution of these crimes, this research is crucial for geoscientific applications, with the potential for global replication. The samples were separated by centrifugation and analyzed using X-ray diffractometry, X-ray fluorescence, and thermogravimetry. Minerals were determined through quantitative mineralogical analyses using Rietveld and Biscaye methods. Additionally, in conjunction with the crystallographic parameters of kaolinite (Full Width at Half Maximum – FWHM), it was possible to form 8 Clay Mineral Assemblages and Gibbsite (CMAG), whose geographical delimitation considered geological and hydrographic aspects. The determination of CMAGs is based on mineralogy and is defined as follows: CMAG 1: kaolinite+(illite); CMAG 2: kaolinite+(gibbsite); CMAG 3: kaolinite + illite + montmorillonite; CMAG 4: kaolinite + illite+(gibbsite); CMAG 5: ordered kaolinite+(illite)+(gibbsite); CMAG 6: kaolinite + gibbsite+(illite); CMAG 7: disordered kaolinite + illite + gibbsite; CMAG 8: kaolinite+(illite)+(chlorite). The results indicate that the quantification of clay minerals in samples from surface soil horizons, FWHM, and the % of Al in goethite can represent valuable tools for forensic pedology. Moreover, through the characterization of iron and titanium (hydr)oxides, it was possible to distinguish samples with a distance of 335 m between them, further expanding the capability to identify the geographical origin of samples, making them potential forensic markers.

Study on Grain Size, Physical Properties and Organic Matter Characteristics of Tidal Flat Surface Sediments: May 2022 Hwangdo Tidal Flat Dataset, Cheonsu Bay

This study analyzes the geological and geochemical features of surface sediments in the Hwangdo Tidal Flat, located on Korea’s West Coast. The tidal flat experiences semi-diurnal tides, impacting organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. Ninety one sediment samples were collected and analyzed for physical and chemical properties including grain size, density, water content, organic carbon, and nitrogen. Sediments consist mainly of sand and silt, with coarser sediments near the main channel and finer sediments towards the west. Sediment grain size averages 4.12 Φ with a sorting coefficient of 1.96 Φ, indicating diverse energy environments. Total organic carbon and nitrogen correlate positively with grain size and density, reflecting sediment origin and environment. Kriging maps sediment grain size distribution, while correlation and linear regression analyses show relationships between variables. High correlations exist between various parameters, aligning with tidal flat characteristics and aiding understanding of sediment transport and deposition. The study provides baseline data for understanding the tidal flat’s geological, geochemical, and physical aspects, valuable for remote sensing validation and environmental monitoring. The dataset is freely available for research and management purposes.

Groundwater potential mapping in arid and semi-arid regions of kurdistan region of Iraq: A geoinformatics-based machine learning approach

Groundwater (GW) is a crucial and increasingly scarce natural resource, that is affected by climate change and mismanagement. To manage GW resources effectively, it is crucial to accurately identify GW potential zones (GWPZs) using modern techniques. This study aimed to employ and assess geoinformatics-based machine learning (ML) models to delineate GWPZs in the Akre district, Kurdistan region of Iraq. Six nonparametric ML models were used: a support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbours (KNN), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), gradient boost DT (GBDT), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). These models were trained on diverse GWPZ-favourable influencing factors, encompassing topographic, hydrological, geological, and environmental aspects. The findings of this study revealed that the XGBoost model outperformed the other nonparametric models in terms of best-fit performance and accuracy in generating a GW potential map (GWPM), achieving a R2 of 0.88, a root mean square error (RMSE) of 11.348, and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 6.623. Notably, over half of the study area (53%) was categorised as having high or very high GWPZs, primarily in the low-lying Rovia Plain. The study identified rainfall, elevation, lineament density (LD), drainage density (Dd), topographic wetness index (TWI), and slope as the most significant factors influencing GWPZ modelling. This study provides a comprehensive framework for GW resource management, ecological conservation, and urban development planning. These insights are crucial for stakeholders, policymakers, and local authorities in strategic resource planning and environmental stewardship.

A review of CO2-injection projects in the Brazilian Pre-Salt — Storage capacity and geomechanical constraints

This review describes the main geological and geomechanical aspects of CO2-injection projects in the Brazilian Pre-Salt reservoirs, focusing on the storage potential and geomechanical aspects of CO2 injection. The Pre-Salt reservoirs in the Santos Basin offer favorable conditions for CCS due to their geological characteristics and existing infrastructure. The thick evaporite caprock, primarily composed of halite, acts as an efficient seal against CO2 migration. The CO2-injection in the Pre-Salt has been active since 2010, with significant amounts of CO2 already stored in the reservoirs. The volumetric assessment estimates the static storage capacity of the Pre-Salt reservoirs to be over 3.3 Gt of CO2, considering only the four fields currently undergoing injection. Geomechanical constraints, including the maximum injection pressure and caprock integrity, are crucial considerations for safe CCS operations. The high stress regime and the hydrostatic state of the caprock minimize the risk of fracturing during injection. Furthermore, dynamic storage capacity calculations indicate the feasibility of injecting CO2 into Pre-Salt reservoirs. This review provides insights into the current state and future prospects of CO2-injection projects in the Brazilian Pre-Salt, contributing to the development of sustainable carbon mitigation strategies in the region.

Contributions to the knowledge of the geohydraulic model and geothermal potential of the São Vicente Medical Spa aquifer system (Central Portugal)

São Vicente Medical Spa is located in mainland Portugal (Southwest Europe) and has been using thermal waters for therapeutic purposes for a long time. The Romans were known to have used its sulphureous waters around 2000 years ago. The spa has a Roman bathhouse that is still visible today, and its ruins were discovered during recent excavations. In this work are presented some elements of the Roman baths, the current baths, as well as the main aspects of the thermal park, with the location of the sulphureous water abstractions, including the classic thermal spring, which discharges water at a temperature of 18.6 ºC. The geomorphological, geological, and hydrogeological aspects are outlined, giving particular attention to the water chemistry of the various abstractions to develop multiple applications of geothermometers to contribute to the knowledge of the geohydraulic model at depth and the geothermal potential of the aquifer system. The conclusions are drawn from a conceptual model, including the reservoir depth, which, according to various scenarios, will be between 3 km and 8 km, in a favorable situation, respectively, to reach groundwater with temperatures between 112 ºC and 118 ºC. Finally, some remarks are made about the location of the new groundwater abstraction and the depth to be reached to increase the exploitation flows and their temperature. Lastly, it outlined new studies to improve the current geohydraulic model and to investigate its relationship with the deep aquifer systems in its neighborhood, namely the Entre-os-Rios hydromineral system.

Identification and Mapping of Flood Vulnerability in the Meninting Watershed, West Lombok

Flooding is the inundation of a flat area as a result of overflowing water from the surrounding area or an overflowing river. The largest river that crosses West Lombok Regency is the Meninting River. The Meninting watershed area as a catchment area has an area of 12,307.75 hectares. This research aims to identify and map flood-vulnerability areas in the Meninting Watershed. Data collection was carried out through a geographic information system (GIS) using overlay and scoring methods. The variables used to assess the level of flood vulnerability were land slope, soil type, rainfall, land cover, and geological aspects. The level of flood vulnerability is divided into three classes, namely not vulnerable, moderately vulnerable, and very vulnerable. The results show that of the 41 villages/sub-districts in the Meninting watershed, 34 villages/urban- villages with a coverage area of 8.21% were very vulnerable to flooding. The four villages that have the largest flood-vulnerable areas were the villages of North Ampenan (120.16 hectares), Midang (87.43 hectares), Dasan Griya (79.68 hectares), and Sesela (77.32 hectares). Around 56.24% of all villages/urban villages in the Meninting watershed were quite vulnerable to flooding and 35.55% of the area was not vulnerable.

Performance—Based Route Selection for Mountainous Highways: A Numerical Approach to Addressing Safety, Hydrological, and Geological Aspects

Performance—Based Route Selection for Mountainous Highways: A Numerical Approach to Addressing Safety, Hydrological, and Geological Aspects

A MaxEnt predictive model for palaeontological sites in the Siwalik Hills: A case study from the Pinjor Formation of the Upper Siwalik Hills near Chandigarh, northern India

This study presents application of the MaxEnt predictive model to identify potential palaeontological sites in the Siwalik Hills, focusing on the Pinjor Formation near Chandigarh, northern India. The Siwalik region holds rich vertebrate palaeontological records, yet lacks comprehensive site prediction models. This research employs MaxEnt (3.4.0) software, to predict areas suitable for fossil occurrences. Georeferenced presence data was derived from literature and field surveys, for training the model. Environmental predictors including Pinjor geological deposit boundary, Vegetation Index (NDVI), and Slope and Aspect were from a digital elevation model. Furthermore, model development involved parameter tuning, for developing a potentially useful model. Field validation of the model through pedestrian surveys identified new fossil localities, demonstrating the model's practical applicability. This research emphasizes the importance of MaxEnt in developing site predictive models, offering a valuable tool for optimizing palaeontological field surveys. While highlighting the model's success, the study also recognizes its limitations, especially concerning landscape and vegetation changes over time. Overall, this work establishes a foundation for further research in predictive modelling for palaeontological exploration in the Siwalik region and emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary efforts in salvage palaeontology to mitigate anthropogenic threats.

Geology Matters for Antarctic Geothermal Heat

AbstractGeothermal heat plays a vital role in Antarctic ice sheet stability. The continental geothermal heat flow distribution depends on lithospheric composition and ongoing tectonism. Heat‐producing elements are unevenly enriched in the crust over deep time by various geological processes. The contribution of crustal heat production to geothermal heat flow is widely recognized; however, in Antarctica, crustal geology is largely hidden, and its complexity has frequently been excluded in thermal studies due to limited observations and oversimplified assumptions. Li and Aitken (2024), https://doi.org/10.1029/2023GL106201 take a significant step forward, focusing on Antarctic crustal radiogenic heat. Utilizing gravity inversion and rock composition data, they show that the crustal heterogeneity introduces considerable variability to heat flow. However, modeling crustal heat production proves challenging because it lacks distinct associations with geophysical observables and has a narrow spatial association. Robust quantification of geothermal heat production and heat flow must incorporate explicit aspects of geology.

Laptev Rift System Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Element, East Siberian Arctic

Abstract The Laptev Sea in the East Siberian Arctic is characterized by a system of extensional structures known as the Laptev Rift System (LRS), developed at the continental prolongation of an active divergent plate boundary - the Gakkel spreading ridge. The LRS hosts as much as 13–14 km of siliciclastic sedimentary strata of supposedly Late Cretaceous to Recent age. The strata accumulated atop of stretched and thinned continental crust that before the rifting onset was a complex tectonic juncture of Late Paleozoic/Early Mesozoic Taimyr and Late Mesozoic Verkhoyansk fold-and-thrust belts formed along the edges of the Siberian Palaeocontinent. In the context of this volume, the LRS is described as a composite tectono-sedimentary element that includes sedimentary rocks accumulated during pre-rift and syn-rift phases. The latter includes at least two syn-rift sedimentary cycles separated by a sedimentary succession formed during a stalled rift phase. In the absence of deep exploration wells, many aspects of the LRS geology and its petroleum prospects remain poorly constrained.

Combined effects of geological heterogeneity and discharge events on groundwater and surface water mixing

Stream water (SW) infiltration to the subsurface and subsequent mixing with groundwater (GW) is crucial for controlling water quality in river-corridors. Mixing of solutes from SW and GW triggers biogeochemical reactions, which can attenuate contaminant influx from upstream SW or from GW that eventually enters the river in downstream regions. It is known that geological heterogeneity affects SW-GW exchange fluxes (EF), however, the combined effects of both hydrological and geological aspects (e.g., sand fraction present in the aquifer material) on EF and on SW-GW mixing in strong contrasting bimodal aquifer units remain unclear. Here, we examined this gap by combining geostatistical realizations, fully-integrated numerical flow simulations, and a mixing-cell routine to assess the major controls on EF and to evaluate how mixing develops and is affected by stream discharge events with different magnitudes and durations. Results show that subsurface heterogeneity at the river-reach scale mainly affects EF magnitudes rather than EF patterns. Yet, both EF magnitudes and SW-GW mixing increased with the introduction of subsurface heterogeneity and with the increase of average hydraulic conductivity (K) values and sand fraction in the models. The simulations further indicated a larger potential for mixing under more frequent, short events regardless of the aquifer material, however, mixing values were generally higher for sandier and heterogeneous models. Lastly, for a high K contrast between subsurface units, these effects were more pronounced. This characterization is critical for river restoration strategies and for downstream management of dam-regulated rivers. Our study elucidates the interplay between hydrological and geological controls on the development of SW-GW mixing at intermediate scales and highlights the importance of considering aquifer characteristics in future studies.

Early exploration modelling of natural hydrogen systems through the use of existing open source data

Natural hydrogen’s viability as a sustainable energy source will be enhanced through comprehensive geological modelling. This paper integrates existing open-source data to delve into the geological aspects of natural hydrogen exploration and proposes possible workflows. Geological and geophysical modelling entails characterising subsurface formations conducive to natural hydrogen generation and trapping. Utilising geological surveys, field observation, geophysical seismic and gravity data, alongside existing well logs, this analysis looks to identify regions with favourable geological conditions for the generation, migration and structures for accumulation of natural hydrogen. Furthermore, understanding the subsurface geology aids in the development of safe and efficient extraction techniques. By incorporating geological modelling into the evaluation of natural hydrogen, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of its potential as a sustainable energy solution. Leveraging existing open-source data alongside geological insights ensures a robust foundation for decision-making in exploration, production, storage, and utilisation strategies. This integrated approach empowers stakeholders to make informed choices in shaping a greener, more sustainable energy landscape.

Valorization of the Residual Fraction of Coal Tailings: A Mineral Circularity Strategy for the Clay Ceramic Industry in the Carboniferous Region of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil.

Mineral extraction of coal in the carboniferous region of southern Santa Catarina (Brazil) plays a significant role in the regional economy. However, this activity has severe environmental impacts, with approximately 65% of the extracted mineral being discarded as a rejected material (deposited in landfills). The identification of the technological potential of these materials, based on the geological aspects of the extraction site and the beneficiation operations applied to obtain coal, provides the opportunity to add value to different residual fractions that can be reused. Thus, waste valorization, the main objective of this work, has recently become a strategy for the application of these minerals in the production of clay ceramics using a systematic approach named CPQvA, which means "classification, potentiality, quantity/viability, and applicability". The use of these materials as secondary mineral sources can avoid the deposition of these materials in industrial landfills and help to reduce the pressure on landfills, which receive an average of four million tons of material annually. In this study, the residual fraction, part of the tailing from coal beneficiation, known as coal fines, was evaluated for formulation valorization in clay ceramics. This residual fraction was classified as non-hazardous (class II-A, non-inert). X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis were performed to characterize the moisture content, particle-size distribution, and coal content to be used in the development of different formulations using the residual fraction of coal tailings (ranging from 0 to 40%) that are of technological interest to the sector. Processing parameters, such as firing at different temperatures (750, 800, 850, and 900 °C), were also correlated with these formulations. The results were compared with those of a reference ceramic formulation from the local productive arrangement of Morro da Fumaça (Arranjo Produtivo Local Cerâmica Vermelha de Morro da Fumaça). The various relationships between the materials were characterized in terms of their thermal shrinkage, water absorption, and mechanical resistance. Leaching and solubilization environmental tests revealed that both the industrial standard formulation and formulations with the application of the residual fraction were classified as non-hazardous materials. Thus, the method of using a mining residual fraction in the formulation of clay ceramics proved to be beneficial for the circular economy in the regional mineral sector through productive and environmental gains; the primary mineral resource and energy consumptions and the impacts related to waste generation were reduced. The results of this study can be applied to similar situations in other parts of the world.

Geological and Geotechnical Aspects of the Most Significant Deep Landslides in the Danube Area on the Territory of Vojvodina

The largest and the deepest landslides in Serbia occurred on the right valley side of the Danube. General conclusions about landslides along the Danube were obtained on the basis of their comprehensive, detailed investigations: the Sloboda bridge in Novi Sad, the Beška bridge, the large settlement of Bocke, and the high-speed railway viaduct in Čortanovci. These areas are actually large, unstable slopes with deep and shallow landslides. Deep landslides consist of several sliding blocks with 20–40 m in depth. All these landslides were formed in clays and sands of the Pliocene age in the decayed crust of these sediments. The general conclusions about landslides presented in this paper will be of great use for the construction of new facilities in the entire unstable area along the Danube, which is about 100 km in length.

Premilinary Assessment for Physcio-Chemical Parameters of Ground Water in and Around Gundlapochampally, Medchal Malkajgiri District Telangana

Abstract: Ground water is one of the most valuable natural sources of drinking water and various usages with increase in urbanization and industrialization, health conditions are influenced by the chemical aspects of groundwater and geology of the region. Access to wholesome drinking water remains an urgent necessity Ground water is one of the most valuable natural sources of drinking water and various usages. Within the world as it is directly related to the health. Groundwater accounts for more than 80% of the rural domestic water supply in India. The integrated ground water prospects maps are preferred by using different thematic layers like Geology, Geomorphology, Structures, Hydrology, etc. Drinking water quality data of Rural Water supply sources situated in Gundlapochampally village, Medchal district is studied for the parameters of pH, Electrical Conductivity, Total Dissolved solids, Total Hardness, Calcium Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Alkalinity, Acidity, Chloride, Nitrate, Floride, Bi-carbonate. The results ware compare with the drinking water standards given by World Health Organization and Bureau of Indian Standards. Thus this research work recommended that the potassium and bicarbonates Contaminated water in Gundlapochampally region is not at all fit for drinking as a solution it was suggested that the solid waste treatment plant should be setup to handle crisis.

Underground Gas Storage in Saline Aquifers: Geological Aspects

Energy, gases, and solids in underground sites are stored in mining excavations, natural caverns, salt caverns, and in the pore spaces of rock formations. Aquifer formations are mainly isolated aquifers with significant spreading, permeability, and thickness, possessing highly mineralized non-potable waters. This study discusses the most important aspects that determine the storage of natural gas, hydrogen, or carbon dioxide in deep aquifers. In particular, the selection and characterization of the structure chosen for underground storage, the storage capacity, and the safety of the process are considered. The choice of underground sites is made on the basis of the following factors and criteria: geological, technical, economic, environmental, social, political, or administrative–legal. The geological and dynamic model of the storage site is then drawn based on the characteristics of the structure. Another important factor in choosing a structure for the storage of natural gas, hydrogen, or carbon dioxide is its capacity. In addition to the type and dimensions of the structure and the petrophysical parameters of the reservoir rock, the storage capacity is influenced by the properties of the stored gases and the operating parameters of the storage facility. Underground gas storage is a process fraught with natural and technical hazards. Therefore, the geological integrity of the structure under consideration should be documented and verified. This article also presents an analysis of the location and the basic parameters of gas storage and carbon dioxide storage facilities currently operating in underground aquifers. To date, there have been no successful attempts to store hydrogen under analogous conditions. This is mainly due to the parameters of this gas, which are associated with high requirements for its storage.

Interaction of natural and architectural landscapes using the example of a city Kharkiv

The article traces the development of the architectural landscape of the city of Kharkov from the moment of the foundation of the Kharkov Fort to the present day. The research shows the main stages: the rise of the fortress of Kharkov (since 1654), the status of a province (since 1787), the development of Kharkov as a cultural and educational center (since 1804), the first World War and revolution (since 1917), second World War and military renewal (from 1941), the creation of Ukraine's Independence (since 1991), a daily war (since 2022). At the skin stage, the infusion of the natural landscape and relief features into the creation and development of the place can be observed. We drew a parallel with the historical concepts and developments of the city, considered the interaction of the architectural landscape with natural transitions, observed connections between compositional dominants and relief differences, so it was search of the spacious accents of the city. According to the research, a spatial model of the city of Kharkov was formulated. The historical center which is the compositional core of the spatial framework is strengthened by dominants. It has a radial ring system of streets perpendicular to the riverbeds. The center of Kharkov is connected with the periphery by compositional and functional axes - the main highways. Active peripheral development enhances the elevations of the relief; buildings in the lowlands is predominantly featureless. Relief features of the landscape, such as embankments and parks, are points of attraction for people what playing an important role in shaping the architectural landscape of the city. So, we formulate opinion about the geological and geographical aspect of the architectural landscape of the Kharkov, determine the look at the further development of the architectural landscape of the apparently natural, and emphasize respect of the importance of using relief features in the city.