Deep Geothermal Water Research Articles

A hydrogeochemical and isotopic approach for assessing the origin, recharge and mixing process of geothermal water in the Yinchuan Basin

The hydrogeochemistry of geothermal fluids is fundamental to reveal the genesis, recharge mechanism and circulation pattern of geothermal water. However, the origin and hydrogeochemical process of geothermal water in deep aquifer system still remain unclear. In this study, 17 water samples were analyzed to study the origin, recharge and mixing process of geothermal water in the Yinchuan basin by using a hydrogeochemical and isotopic approach. The results showed that the concentrations of major ions (SO42−, Na+, Cl−, TDS, Ca2+, K+, Mg2+ and NH4+) and trace elements (Li, F−, Br−, I−, Sr and Mn) in geothermal water are significantly greater than those in shallow water, hot spring and cold spring in the study area. The hydrochemical type of geothermal water is dominated by Cl·SO4-Na, which is mainly influenced by dissolution of halides, chlorides and sulfates under strong fluid-rock interactions. The isotope analysis demonstrated that the atmospheric precipitation in the Helan Mountain area is the major recharge source of geothermal water, the recharge elevation is 1118 m–1133 m, and the deep geothermal water is formed by a mixing process of ancient precipitation and modern precipitation. The silica-enthalpy mixing model suggested that the reservoir temperature of deep geothermal fluid is between 110 °C and 175 °C, and the mixing ratio of cold water is about 54 % to 92 %. The present study sheds some light on the genesis, recharge mechanism and hydrogeochemical evolution of geothermal water in deep aquifers, which are vital for sustainable exploitation and utilization of geothermal resources.

Hydrochemical processes and fluoride enrichment patterns in high-fluoride geothermal water in the Weihe Basin, China

The enrichment of fluoride in the deep geothermal water of the Lantian – Bahe Formation in parts of the Weihe Basin in China is a potential health hazard for the millions of inhabitants of this region. We conducted hydrochemical and hydrogeological analyses of water samples from 31 geothermal wells in the Weihe Basin, with the aims of determining the distribution characteristics, enrichment patterns, hydrochemical processes, and the factors influencing the geochemistry of deep geothermal fluids. We also evaluated the potential health hazards of fluoride ions in these fluids. Our results show that geothermal fluids with high fluoride content are widely distributed in the deep aquifers of the Weihe Basin. The principal hydrochemical types are: HCO3–Na and SO4⋅HCO3⋅Cl–Na. We used hydrodynamic simulation and regression analysis to show that the high proportion of HCO3– in the geothermal water facilitates the precipitation of Ca2+ and the dissolution of fluorine-bearing minerals. The high temperature, alkaline environment, cation exchange reactions, and dissolution and precipitation processes lead to Ca2+ depletion, which facilitates the release of fluoride ions from the surrounding rocks into the geothermal fluids. A human health risk assessment shows that the hazard quotient (HQ) values of geothermal water for adult males, adult females, children, and infants are: 3.96 – 14.41 (median 6.55), 3.32 – 12.08 (median 4.50), 4.63 – 16.84 (median 5.50), and 7.48 – 27.22 (median 9.00), respectively. Infants are the most susceptible to the effects of high fluoride in groundwater due to their physiological characteristics. while the potential health risks of F− for children and adult women/men are relatively low. Therefore, in the process of developing deep geothermal water, it is necessary to prevent it from mixing into shallow drinking water as much as possible. If the fluoride ion content in the shallow water exceeds the standard, it may have an impact on the local environment and residents' health. These findings provide a scientific foundation for the effective management of high fluoride groundwater in the Weihe Basin and analogous regions elsewhere.

High resolution identification and quantification of diffuse deep groundwater discharge in mountain rivers using continuous boat-mounted helium measurements

Discharge of deeply sourced groundwater to streams is difficult to locate and quantify, particularly where both discrete and diffuse discharge points exist, but diffuse discharge is one of the primary controls on solute budgets in mountainous watersheds. The noble gas helium is a unique identifier of deep groundwater discharge because groundwater with long residence times is commonly enriched in helium. In this study, a portable mass spectrometer was used to measure longitudinal variation in dissolved helium concentrations in two mountainous rivers at high spatial resolution not feasible with traditional sampling techniques. Helium profiles were then simulated using a mass-balance model to quantify longitudinal variation in groundwater discharge to the receiving rivers. Results indicate helium concentrations were enriched by multiple orders of magnitude above atmospheric equilibrium in both rivers and that this persisted for up to 18 km below observed pulse inputs in the Colorado River. Helium mass-balance models match observed longitudinal patterns with the exception of sharp initial increases in helium observed in the rivers. Increased longitudinal groundwater discharge rates correspond to mapped geologic structures in both watersheds that likely transport deep geothermal water. Models show variable sensitivity to spatial assignment of input variables representing the groundwater source, illustrating the importance of collecting data from discrete groundwater discharges where possible. The methodology shows promise for field experiments designed to assess air–water exchange rates and to quantify total groundwater discharge from a combination of discrete and diffuse sources.

Study on the Genetic Mechanism of Carbonate Rock Type Hot Mineral Water-A Case Study of Diaozhen, Jinan.

Geothermal resources are one of the most valuable resources in renewable energy because of their advantages of green environmental protection, stability, and reliability. Carbonate rock type geothermal reservoirs have great research significance. Carbonate rock type geothermal resources are abundant in the Shandong area. In this paper, we take the carbonate-type geothermal reservoir in the Diaozhen area of Jinan City as the research object, analyze the regional geothermal geological conditions, and identify the geological structure. Through physical logging exploration, hydrochemical analysis, isotope testing, and drilling exploration, we reveal the geothermal genesis mechanism and construct the genetic model of the carbonate geothermal system. The results show that Diaozhen area belongs to a low-temperature geothermal field and weak open karst thermal reservoir and that the reservoir is mainly Ordovician Majiagou group limestone. The thermal insulation caprock is the overlying Quaternary and Neogene strata with a cumulative thickness of 1376 m. The results of geophysical exploration wells and drilling data verify that the Mingshui fracture is seen around 1630-1645m, and the diorite intrusion is seen at 1610m. The Mingshui fracture connects the deep and shallow aquifers and is a geothermal fluid migration channel. The geothermal water in the Diaozhen area is mainly from the recharge of atmospheric precipitation, with a rich ion content and easy enrichment of trace elements. The regional thermal reservoir is mainly recharged by the deep circulation lateral runoff of Ordovician karst water. After long-distance deep circulation migration, groundwater continuously absorbs heat from the surrounding rock and is heated to geothermal raw water in the deep part. Deep geothermal water rises along the water-conducting fracture and mixes with shallow cold water to form shallow, low-temperature geothermal water.

Reservoirs and Hydrogeochemical Characterizations of the Yanggao Geothermal Field in Shanxi Province, China

Geothermal water is the product of deep circulation within the crust, and the understanding of its hydrogeochemical process can provide effective information for integrated research on its circulation pattern and formation mechanism. Based on the geothermal geological conditions of the Yanggao geothermal field, this study analyzed water samples from thermal springs and geothermal wells in the geothermal field, ascertaining their hydrochemical components, along with their hydrogen and oxygen isotopes. Using methods like piper diagrams, ionic component ratio characterization, Na–K–Mg equilibrium diagrams, and reverse path simulations, this study elucidated the recharge source of geothermal water in the study area, revealed the water–rock interactions the geothermal water experienced, and evaluated the geothermal reservoir temperatures. The results show that the geothermal water has hydrochemical types of Na–Cl–HCO3 and Na–HCO3–Cl, and is primarily recharged by the atmospheric precipitation in the northern mountainous area. The geothermal water has experienced extended water runoff and deep thermal circulation, and its hydrochemical composition primarily results from the weathering and dissolution of silicate rocks and evaporites. The major hydrogeochemical processes of the geothermal water involve the dissolution of calcite, dolomite, gypsum, and kaolinite. In addition, the canon-exchange also changes the chemical component of the geothermal water. The SiO2 Geothermometer, a multimineral equilibrium diagram, and the silica–enthalpy model reveal the presence of deep and shallow geothermal reservoirs in the study area, which exhibit temperatures of 73 °C and ranging from 125 to 150 °C, respectively. The open geothermal reservoir environment results in the mixing of geothermal water and cold water, with shallow and deep geothermal water mixing with cold water at ratios of 57% and 76%, respectively.

Geochemical characterization and implications of soil gas and geothermal fluids in the fault zone of Xiongan new area

This study investigates the geochemical characteristics and implications of soil gas and geothermal fluids in the fault zone of Xiongan New Area (XNA). Spatial distribution analysis reveals high soil gas concentrations along the fault zone, prompting the establishment of measurement lines along specific fault segments, such as Niudong fault, with a vertical burial trend. The measured average Rn flux ranges from 71.44 to 335.35 mBq m−2s−1, while CO2 flux ranges from 25.96 to 78.23 g m−2d−1. Furthermore, the average Rn and CO2 concentration intensities range from 0.91 to 2.30 and 1.13 to 2.61, respectively, indicating significant degassing in the fault zone.Geothermal well samples are collected from the deep reservoir in XNA, displaying a predominance of Cl–Na composition. Analysis of the Na–K–Mg equilibrium diagram suggests that the chemical characteristics of deep geothermal water are a result of interactions with rocks and mixing with shallow cold water in XNA. Isotopic analysis indicates the atmospheric precipitation origin of the deep geothermal water with extensive lateral recharge from underground runoff, emphasizing strong water-rock interactions. Comparison with other tectonic units in the region reveals that the Niudong Fault Zone serves as a regional geothermal control structure, facilitating deep fluid convection.In the eastern part of XNA, the geochemical analysis reveals concentrated degassing and a relatively high proportion of mantle-derived sources near the Niudong Fault Zone. This observation suggests the fault zone serves as a primary conduit for deep gases and geothermal fluids. The findings of this research provide valuable scientific references for future urban planning, energy utilization, and geologic hazard monitoring in XNA. Continued monitoring efforts are crucial for understanding the nature of fault activity and resource distribution in the region.

Shallow and deep geothermal water sources identification in Unai geothermal field, Gujarat, India with applications of Magnetotelluric (MT)

The aim of this study is to conduct and examine the results of a Magnetotelluric (MT) survey in Unai, Gujarat, India for geothermal prospect identification. At Unai, the data was acquired, processed, and interpreted in the form of 2D and 3D MT surveys. Data were acquired at 56 stations in uniformly spaced profiles along the ENE-WSE direction (geological strike direction) with a station spacing of 2 km. Qualitative and quantitative data understanding has been done for geothermal prospect identification. Deep and shallow 1D and 2D models of electrical resistivity were made, which suggests the presence of a geothermal aquifer. This is corroborated by polar and skew tipper diagrams. The one-dimensional Occam models and two-dimensional conjugate gradient models confirm the presence of a low resistivity anomaly near the surface ranging from the depth of 100–700 m. This suggests the presence of a shallow geothermal zone. Apart from the shallow geothermal prospect, this study also delineates a deep conductive body which may be attributed to a matured geothermal reservoir. For a better understanding of the prospect geoelectrical cross sections are analysed from a depth of 10 m to 15 km. The MT cross-sections show the presence of geological features such as a series of faults. These faults form horst and graben in nature and may act as a good trap for the shallow reservoirs.

Hydrogeochemical Characteristics of Geothermal Water in Ancient Deeply Buried Hills in the Northern Jizhong Depression, Bohai Bay Basin, China

The Jizhong Depression boasts rich geothermal resources with a lengthy history of geothermal exploitation. Buried hill geothermal reservoirs, which serve as primary thermal sources for hydrothermal resource exploitation, are prevalent in this region and have advantages such as extensive development potential, significant geothermal reservoir capacity, superior water quality, and straightforward recharge. This study investigates the formation and evolution of deep geothermal water in the Jizhong Depression by analyzing the hydrochemical and isotopic data of geothermal water samples collected from buried hill geothermal reservoirs in the northern part of the depression. The findings reveal that the subsurface hot water samples from the carbonate geothermal reservoirs in this region were predominantly weakly alkaline water with a pH ranging between 6.61 and 8.87. The hot water samples collected at the wellhead exhibited temperatures varying from 33.9 °C to 123.4 °C and total dissolved solids (TDS) lying between 473.9 mg/L and 3452 mg/L. Based on the δ2H-δ18O stable isotope analysis, the geothermal fluids in the Jizhong Depression are predominantly sourced from atmospheric precipitation and exist in a somewhat isolated hydrogeological environment, exhibiting pronounced water–rock interactions and deep water circulation (with depths ranging from 1324 m to 3455 m). Through a comparison of various methods, it is deduced that the most appropriate geothermometer for deep karst geothermal reservoirs in the Jizhong Depression is a chalcedony geothermometer, and when using it, the deep reservoir temperature was estimated at 63–137.6 °C. The precipitation in the adjacent mountainous areas enables the groundwater to infiltrate and descend deep into the earth along piedmont faults. Subsequently, lateral runoff over extended periods replenishes the groundwater into the depression. This process allows for the groundwater to fully absorb heat from deep heat sources, resulting in the formation of the deep geothermal reservoirs in the northern Jizhong Depression. The insights obtained from this study offer a theoretical and scientific foundation for the exploitation and utilization of regional geothermal resources and the transformation of the energy structure in China.

Chemical Characterization and Genesis of Thermal Reservoir Water in the Southern Part of the Jizhong Depression

The Jizhong Depression is a typical Mesozoic and Cenozoic fault basin located in the northwestern part of the Bohai Bay Basin that has abundant hydrothermal and geothermal resources and enormous development potential. In this study, hydrochemical and isotopic analyses were conducted on water samples from the southern region of the Jizhong Depression. The formation and evolution processes of the deep geothermal water were analyzed, the circulation process of the deep geothermal water was determined, and the genetic mechanism of the geothermal systems was elucidated. The hydrochemical types of the geothermal fluids in the sandstone reservoirs in the research area are mainly Cl·HCO3−Na type, while the geothermal fluids in the carbonate reservoirs are mainly Cl-Na type and Cl·HCO3−Na type. The ion components in the geothermal water are mainly controlled by the dissolution of the carbonate rocks and the alternate adsorption of cations. The elevation of the geothermal water supply area is 763–1063 m, and the main source is precipitation from the mountainous areas in the western Taihang Mountains. The Na-K-Ca temperature scale and multi-mineral equilibrium method have relatively small errors and are suitable for the southern region of the Jizhong Depression, with average errors of 21.44 °C and 32.64 °C, respectively. The depth of the Jxw thermal storage cycle in the research area is 3033–5187 m, and the depth of the Ng thermal storage cycle is 1360–2862 m. The content of the main ions (Na+, K+, and Cl−) in the water samples of the study area is greater in the Jxw thermal storage than in the Ng thermal storage; the Jxw thermal storage water samples have lower γNa+/γCl− values than the Ng thermal storage; and the γSO42−/γCl− and γCl−/(γHCO3− + CO32−) values are greater than those of the Ng thermal storage, indicating that the Jxw thermal storage is located in a geological environment with better sealing, longer flow, slower water circulation, more complete leaching, and higher salinity than the Ng thermal storage. Part of the deep thermal storage is transmitted upwards through the rocks via thermal conduction, and part is transmitted upwards along fault channels via thermal convection, forming a convection–conduction-type geothermal system.

Conditions for the enrichment of karst hydrothermal resources in Bohai Bay Basin

Drilling for karst hydrothermal resources in eastern China has posed challenges, including disparities between the temperature and yield of geothermal water. It is evident that relying solely on geothermal anomalies or indications of karst reservoirs is inadequate for the exploration of karst hydrothermal resources. This study seeks to elucidate the cause of geothermal sweet spots by analyzing the interplay between geothermal anomalies and karst reservoirs and the underlying geological conditions for karst hydrothermal enrichment. Key findings include: (1) the Bohai Bay Basin has been geologically favorable for the development of karst hydrothermal resources since the Mesozoic era; (2) the karst hydrothermal enrichment varies significantly between the basin’s margin and its interior. On the basin margin, the enrichment is largely driven by groundwater activity and faults, particularly where faults facilitate the upwelling of geothermal water. In contrast, within the basin’s interior, karst hydrothermal resources are predominantly influenced by buried hills and are especially enriched in areas facilitating the discharge of deep geothermal waters.

Geochemical and H–O–Sr–B isotope signatures of Yangyi geothermal fields: implications for the evolution of thermal fluids in fracture-controlled type geothermal system, Tibet, China

High-temperature hydrothermal systems are mainly distributed in the north–south graben systems of southern Tibet as an important part of the Mediterranean–Tethys Himalayan geothermal belt in mainland China. As the largest unit capacity and second stable operating geothermal power station in China, Yangyi is the fracture-controlled type geothermal field in the center of Yadong–Gulu Graben. In this paper, hydrogeological and hydrochemical characteristics, isotope composition (δD and δ18O, 87Sr/86Sr and δ11B) of borehole water, hot springs, and surface river samples were analyzed. From the conservative elements (such as Cl− and Li+) and δD and δ18O values, the geothermal water of the Yangyi high-temperature geothermal field is estimated to be of meteoric origin with the contributions of chemical components of the magmatic fluid, which is provided by partially molten granite as a shallow magmatic heat source. According to logging data, the geothermal gradient and terrestrial heat flow value of the Yangyi high-temperature geothermal field are 6.48 ℃/100 m and 158.37 mW m−2, respectively. Combining the hydrothermal tracer experiment, 87Sr/86Sr and δ11B ratios obtained with gradually decreasing reservoir temperatures from the Bujiemu stream geothermal zone to Qialagai stream geothermal zone, we suggested the deep geothermal waters were mixed with local cold groundwater and then flow northeastward, forming the shallow reservoir within the crushed zone and intersect spot of faults in the Himalayan granitoid. Furthermore, in the process of ascent, the geothermal water is enriched in K+, Na+, and HCO3− during the interaction with underlying Himalayan granitoid and pyroclastic rocks that occur as wall rocks. The detailed description and extensive discussion are of great significance for the further exploitation and utilization of north–south trending geothermal belts in Tibet.

An additional source for the hydrochemical formation of geothermal waters in granites

The hydrochemical components mainly come from the dissolution of granite minerals for geothermal waters in granites as reservoir rocks. The hydrothermal alteration and albite dissolution are considered the main source of Na+ content. However, the average content of Na+ in medium-low temperature geothermal waters caused by the dissolution of sodium-bearing minerals in granites and derived from ion exchange are 42 mg/L and no more than 60 mg/L, respectively. The main hydrogeochemical approaches are hard to explain high Na+ contents of more than 115 mg/L abnormally existing in the medium-low temperature geothermal waters in granites. A case study is discussed in the Heyuan fault zone, South China. For the geothermal waters, the reservoir temperature is about 116.0–136.4 °C with a maximum circulation depth of 5.5 km. Albite dissolution can provide 33.03 mg/L Na+ for geothermal waters at 136.4 °C, but the true Na+ contents in deep geothermal waters range from 193.6 to 1107.3 mg/L. The reality is that granite minerals dissolution can only provide Na+ contents between 10.6 and 66.7 mg/L with an average of 31 mg/L, and cation exchange and seawater intrusion have a minor contribution. We propose that the deep parent geofluid for enhanced feldspar dissolution under high temperature and pressure in the deep below the geothermal reservoir significantly contributes to 84%-85% of high Na+ contents in geothermal waters. Therefore, the deep parent geofluid as an additional source for the hydrochemical formation of geothermal waters in granites as reservoir rocks is hardly ignored.

Parallel Factor Analysis with 3DEEMS of Dissolved Organic Matter from Deep Porous Medium Reservoirs in the City of Kaifeng

The deep geothermal water found within Kaifeng City, Henan province, China, is mainly contained within a loose-pore geothermal reservoir in the Minghuazhen Formation (Neogene Period). To understand the role and composition of Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) in geothermal water, water samples collected from 13 geothermal wells at different depths were studied using three-dimensional (3D) excitation-emission matrix-parallel factor (EEM-PARAFAC) analysis. Fluorescent components were analyzed according to depth, and DOM in geothermal water between 800 m and 1600 m was classified. The results show that the fluorescence index (FI), biological index (BIX), and humification index (HIX) of DOM differ among geothermal water from different thermal reservoirs. Based on these three indices, the humification degree of DOM in deep geothermal water in Kaifeng City is low and is mainly derived from an endogenous source, which is closely related to microbial activities in thermal reservoirs. The fluorescent components of DOM in geothermal water from depths less than 1200 m are mainly tryptophan, tyrosine, and fulvic acid-like. The fluorescent components of DOM in geothermal water from depths greater than 1200 m are more complex, with tryptophan, tyrosine, humic acid, and fulvic acid-like components. Therefore, the characteristics of DOM composition in the geothermal water from different reservoirs in Kaifeng can also be used to infer and explain that the quality of deep geothermal water has not been affected by human activities, and there is no obvious hydraulic connection between the geothermal water of each thermal reservoir.

Permeability and Groundwater Flow Dynamics in Deep‐Reaching Orogenic Faults Estimated From Regional‐Scale Hydraulic Simulations

AbstractNumerical modeling is used to understand the regional scale flow dynamics of the fault‐hosted orogenic geothermal system at the Grimsel Mountain Pass in the Swiss Alps. The model is calibrated against observations from thermal springs discharging in a tunnel some 250 m underneath Grimsel Pass to derive estimates for the bulk permeability of the fault. Simulations confirm that without the fault as a hydraulic conductor the thermal springs would not exist. Regional topography alone drives meteoric water in a single pass through the fault plane where it penetrates to depths exceeding 10 km and acquires temperatures in excess of 250°C. Thermal constraints from the thermal springs at Grimsel Pass suggest bulk fault permeabilities in the range of 2e−15 m2–4.8e−15 m2. Reported residence times of >30,000 and 7 years for the deep geothermal and shallow groundwater components in the thermal spring water, respectively, suggest fault permeabilities of around 2.5e−15 m2. We show that the long residence time of the deep geothermal water is likely a consequence of low recharge rates during the last glaciation event in the Swiss Alps, which started some 30,000 years ago. Deep groundwater discharging at Grimsel Pass today thus infiltrated the Grimsel fault prior to the last glaciation event. The range of permeabilities estimated from observational constraints is fully consistent with a subcritical single‐pass flow system in the fault plane.

Origin and migration of fluoride in the area of the Aluto Volcanic Complex (Main Ethiopian Rift)

Fluoride-enriched ground and surface waters represent a major health risk for the local population in many areas along the East African Rift. The present study investigates the origin of fluoride and the reason for its accumulation in the rift waters, following two hypotheses: (i) fluid-rock-interactions release fluoride from minerals into the water and (ii) magmatic-derived fluoride-containing liquids and gases migrate along permeable fault zones until they dissolve in ground- and surface water or be released to the atmosphere.Rock-, gas, water-, soil-, and plant samples were collected from the area within and close by the Aluto Volcanic Complex, which is part of the Main Ethiopian Rift. Most analyzed waters showed fluoride concentrations above the drinking water limit (>1.5 mg/L) with the highest values in hot springs (up to 70 mg/L) and the geothermal well (76 mg/L). In the solid phase, a high fluoride content was found in acid volcanic rocks (ignimbrite: 4391 ppm; rhyolite: 3248 ppm) as well as in pumice (up to 1955 ppm). The fluoride content of soil samples collected within the volcanic complex varied between 82 and 1036 ppm, whereas former lake sediments from outside the Aluto Volcanic Complex showed higher fluoride contents ranging from 674 to 8171 ppm.Identified fluoride-rich minerals are various amphiboles (about 3 wt.-% F−), fluor-apatite (about 3 wt % F−), minerals of the fluor-caphite group (about 5 wt.-% F−), parisite (up to 9 wt.-% F−), and fluorite (CaF2). Elevated fluoride concentrations were also measured in some gas samples from fumaroles (up to 50 ppm) and in plant samples collected next to the fumaroles (up to 65 ppm). Leaching experiments of solid samples with deionized water demonstrated that fluoride can easily be mobilized from pumice and sediments but hardly from consolidated rocks. This fluoride release increased with temperature (up to 150 °C) and correlated roughly with dissolved silica indicating the binding of some fluoride to the amorphous or weakly crystalline silica fraction.Based on these results it was concluded that fluoride migrates via different pathways through the environment: At the depth of the magma chamber during magmatic differentiation fluoride enriches initially in the magmatic melt and accumulates in some late-crystallizing minerals of igneous rocks such as fluorite or mica. Upon volcanic eruption fluoride is predominantly incorporated in the glass (ignimbrite) and ash phase (pumice). On the surface, these rocks are exposed to weathering and fluoride leaches partly out into the aqueous phase. Soft and porous rocks such as pumice release fluoride first whereas hard extrusive/igneous rocks are less prone to weathering and retain the fluoride. Pumice and (lake) sediments might act both, as source and as sink for fluoride in the area. Although some fluoride might drain from the surface into the deeper subsoil, we conclude that magmatic fluids (liquid and gas) contribute more substantially to the overall fluoride ground water content because (i) of the much higher fluoride content in deep geothermal waters and hot springs as compared to surface-near waters; (ii) active geothermal surface manifestations located along fault zones indicate that fluids migrate from deep magmatic intrusions (as gas and liquid) towards the surface, where fluoride dissolves in groundwater; (iii) and the good correlation between bicarbonate (deriving from dissolution of magmatic CO2) and fluoride content in all analyzed water samples.

Controls on the behaviors of rare earth elements in acidic and alkaline thermal springs

Understanding the rare earth elements (REE) behaviors in aquatic environment is important to reveal the complex hydrochemical processes and hydrological circulation, such as water-rock interactions, mixing, redox reactions. Based on the samples collected from the Rehai geothermal field, southwestern China and the data from published literature, this study revealed that there are apparently differences in general hydrochemistry and REE geochemistry characteristics between the acidic and alkaline springs. The content of REE in acidic springs is one to three orders of magnitude higher than that of alkaline springs and river water. The NASC-normalized REE patterns of acidic springs are more similar to river water and volcanic rocks, but heavy rare earth elements (HREE) in all samples are enriched compared with volcanic rocks. Moreover, the most remarkable characteristic is that the total concentration of REE decreases significantly with the increase in pH of the springs, but rises slightly after water becomes neutral. Through speciation calculations, major REE species are Ln3+ and LnSO4+ in acidic springs (Ln represents REE), and REE hydroxide complexes are predominant in alkaline springs. The behaviors of REE in thermal springs are controlled by three processes: (i) the dissolution and alteration of primary minerals containing REE vary with the pH of water. The co-alteration of the whole-rock minerals contribute to the REE in the acidic springs, whereas the dissolution of feldspar is main source of REE in the alkaline springs; (ii) the content and species of Fe and Mn affects the adsorption, desorption and co-precipitation of REE, especially under weakly alkaline conditions; and (iii) inorganic complexation and adsorption are responsible for the fractionation between LREE and HREE. The positive Eu anomaly is mainly owing to preferential dissolution of feldspar in alkaline springs. Combined with the general hydrochemistry of thermal springs, isotopic data and inverse geochemical modeling, acidic springs in the Rehai geothermal field generate from oxidized shallow water heated by steam containing H2S, and alkaline springs are derived from deep geothermal water.

Cl isotope fractionation in magmatic and hydrothermal eudialyte, sodalite and tugtupite (Ilímaussaq intrusion, South Greenland)

We determined the Cl stable isotope composition of Cl-rich minerals (eudialyte, sodalite and tugtupite) from evolved peralkaline rocks of the Ilímaussaq complex (South Greenland) to determine the effects of orthomagmatic and hydrothermal processes on Cl isotope variations and to estimate the Cl isotopic composition of the lithospheric mantle source for the complex.The total variation of δ37Cl values is between +0.1 and + 0.4‰ for sodalites (N = 16), 0 and + 0.3‰ for tugtupites (N = 6) and + 0.2 and + 1.7‰ for eudialytes (N = 31). This data set allowed for estimating Cl isotope fractionation between minerals, melts and fluids in a well-defined natural system. The Cl isotope fractionation between magmatic sodalite and melt is slightly negative (about −0.05‰), decreasing to about −0.1‰ during hydrothermal conditions; Cl isotope fractionation between tugtupite and fluid (about −0.2‰) is slightly larger. Magmatic eudialyte has δ37Cl values that are approximately 0.35‰ higher than magmatic sodalite, indicating Cl isotope fractionation between eudialyte and melt of about +0.3‰.The Cl isotopic composition of the melt was estimated to a δ37Cl of about +0.3‰, which may be representative for the lithospheric mantle below South Greenland. This value is within the range of δ37Cl values of various mantle reservoirs (varying between −3‰ and + 3‰) including a recently suggested value of +0.9‰ derived from Mexican mantle-derived deep geothermal waters, and the generally accepted average mantle value of −0.2‰. The data indicate that large Cl isotope heterogeneities exist within the mantle that question the validity of using a general average Cl isotope ratio when Cl isotope mantle values are discussed, and that it is important to better understand the global variability of Cl isotopes in the mantle and Cl isotope fractionation between the fluid and crystalline phases.Cl isotopes in sodalite and tugtupite samples are compared to previously published Br isotope values. The range in Cl isotope values is less than the range of Br isotope values, and different sample groups are better constraint with Br isotopes. Br isotope fractionation is larger due to competition of Br with Cl which better fits at mineral site locations in the crystals. This results in better isotope separation between different sample groups using Br isotopes. Due to low Br concentrations in most samples, it is only rarely possible to measure Br isotope compositions so that generally it is not possible to apply this comparison.

Application of hydrochemical and isotopic data to determine the origin and circulation conditions of karst groundwater in an alpine and gorge region in the Qinghai–Xizang Plateau: a case study of Genie Mountain

Complex structural systems, lithological differences, and extreme heterogeneity of aquifers combine to create a complex karst aquifer structure in alpine and gorge areas; however, because of the topography, direct investigation of aquifer structure is difficult. In this study, field survey, hydrochemical, and isotopic data are analyzed to reveal the development of karst groundwater and to describe the karst water cycle in Genie Mountain, Qinghai–Xizang Plateau. The results show that groundwater circulation is mainly controlled by active fracture. Atmospheric precipitation and melting ice and snow are the groundwater recharge sources, and recharge areas are mostly located in high mountains above 4500 m a.s.l. The direction of groundwater flow is mostly controlled by the Jinshajiang active Fault, with drainage areas at the intersection of multiple faults. There are two regional karst water runoff conduits. One is along the Edexi-Hongjunshan Fault, where groundwater runs from south to north; the other is along Gangtonglong Fault, where groundwater runs from north to south, and is discharged at Gangtonglong gully. The groundwater cycle can be divided into three levels: epikarst water circulation; mid to deep karst water circulation; and deep geothermal water circulation. The karst springs located in the outlet of the Huolong gully contain markedly higher levels of Na+ and SO42− than other karst springs because of the leaching effect of groundwater on mirabilite. The presence of evaporites in Huolong gully indicates that the plateau planation formed by the structural uplift will change the local climatic conditions, and then affect the groundwater circulation process and the water–rock reaction in the process.

Flow Path of the Carbonate Geothermal Water in Xiong’an New Area, North China: Constraints From 14C Dating and H-O Isotopes

Studying the flow path of geothermal water in geothermal fields is an important basis for the scientific development and management of geothermal resources. However, due to the influence of engineering volume, economic benefits and demand, it is very difficult to fully grasp the flow path of deep geothermal water in large areas. The use of hydrogeochemical tracers to determine the flow path of geothermal water is a scientific and effective research method. In order to accurately describe the flow path of carbonate geothermal water in the Xiong’an New Area and its surrounding areas, this study systematically analyzed the 14C, 18O, and 2H data of carbonate and Cenozoic sandstone geothermal water, Quaternary groundwater, as well as mountain spring water of the study area. Based on these results, we can conclude that 1) The 14C, d, and 18O values are favourable clues for indicating the circulating runoff conditions and runoff paths of geothermal water. 2) The salinity of the Xushui-Wenan and Lilan transfer zone are <3 g/l, the 14C values are lower than 25000 years, the d value is higher, and the phenomenon of “18O drift” is weak, all these indicating the dominant flow path of carbonate geothermal water, featured by relative lower temperature. 3) The salinity of karst geothermal water in the southwest of Gaoyang low uplift, Rongcheng uplift and Niutuozhen uplift is > 3 g/l, the 14C values are higher than 40,000 years, the d value is lower, and the phenomenon of “18O drift” is obvious, all these indicating that the tectonic sites are the convergence areas of regional karst geothermal water, featured by relative high temperature. 4) The hydrochemical indicators combined with previous carbonate groundwater flow field indicate that the recharge of carbonate geothermal water in the Xiong’an New Area may not only drive from the western Taihang Mountains, but also along the Xushui-Wenan transfer zone and the Lilan fault, with the recharge of carbonate groundwater from the Cangxian uplift from east to west. By further identifying and defining the dominant flow path and supply direction of carbonate geothermal water in the Xiong’an New Area and surrounding areas, it provides strong support for the scientific development of regional carbonate geothermal water.

Geochemical Characteristics of Rare Earth Elements in the Chaluo Hot Springs in Western Sichuan Province, China

High-temperature hydrothermal activity areas in western Sichuan Province, China are ideal objects for studying deep Earth science, extreme ecological environments, and comprehensive geothermal utilization. To understand the geochemical characteristics of rare Earth elements (REEs) in the Chaluo hot springs in western Sichuan Province, the authors analyzed the composition and fractionation of REEs in the hot springs through hydrochemical analysis, REE tests, and North American Shale Composite-normalized REE patterns. Moreover, the composition and complex species of REEs in the geothermal water in the Chaluo area were determined through calculation and simulation analysis using the Visual MINTEQ 3.0 software. The results are as follows. In terms of hydrochemical type, all geothermal water in the Chaluo area is of the Na-HCO3 type. The cations in the geothermal water are mainly controlled by water-rock interactions and evaporation, the anions are determined by water-rock interactions, and the hydrochemical processes are primarily controlled by the dissolution of silicate minerals. The total REE content of the geothermal water in the Chaluo hot springs is 0.306 ± 0.103 ug/L. It is low compared to the Kangding area and is primarily affected by the reductive dissolution of Fe oxides/hydroxides, followed by pH. The geothermal water in the Chaluo area is rich in light rare Earth elements (LREEs) because of the presence of Fe oxides. It shows positive Eu and Ce anomalies due to the combined effects of the dissolution of Eh and Mn oxides and surface water. Furthermore, the positive Eu anomalies are also caused by the water-rock interactions between the Qugasi Formation and deep geothermal water. Similar to alkaline water bodies, the complex species of REEs in the geothermal water mainly include Ln(CO3)2−, LnCO3+, and LnOH2+, which is caused by the stability constants of complexation reactions.