Genetic Analysis of Geothermal Resources in Deep-Seated Fault Area in Tonghe County, Northeast China and Implications of Geothermal Exploration

Abstract

Northeast China is an area with high energy consumption and high carbon emissions, and the utilization of geothermal resources can effectively overcome these problems. However, there are few geothermal manifestations in Northeast China and no systematic method for geothermal exploration at present, which hinders the utilization of geothermal resources. Here, a systematic analysis, including hydrochemistry, petrology, isotopes, controlled source audio magnetotelluric sounding, drilling, and temperature curve of two boreholes was carried out to investigate the genesis of geothermal resources in Tonghe County, Northeast China, along the Yilan-Yitong lithospheric fault (YYF). We found that the geothermal water is alkaline Na-HCO3 type water, is of local meteoric origin, and is recharged from the hilly area with an elevation of ~280 m around the study area. We established a geothermal water circulation path model: (1) cold water infiltrated along the YYF to a depth of 2–3 km, (2) cold water was heated by mantle heat, and (3) hot water was stored in sandstone/siltstone, forming a sandstone geothermal reservoir with a temperature of ~70 ℃. These results have important guiding significance for the scientific exploration of geothermal resources in Northeast China.

Application of Acid Fracturing Technology to Improve Water Yield of Deep Carbonate Geothermal Wells

“…Since 2016, China Geological Survey (Hereinafter referred to as CGS) has organized and implemented the "National Geothermal Resources Survey, Evaluation, and Exploration Demonstration" project (renamed as the "Beijing Tianjin Hebei Geothermal Resources Survey, Evaluation, and Comprehensive Development Demonstration Project" in 2018). Through the implementation of the project, the distribution, potential, development, and utilization status of geothermal resources in key areas, such as Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, have been basically identified, creating a new situation for the exploration, development, and utilization of deep geothermal energy in China [13].…”

Geothermal Spatial Potential and Distribution Assessment Using a Hierarchical Structure Model Combining GIS, Remote Sensing, and Geophysical Techniques—A Case Study of Dali’s Eryuan Area

“…Faults typically create underground fractures and voids, which can act as pathways for the transport and storage of geothermal energy [47][48][49]. Geothermal energy is conveyed to the surface through fractures and pores in faults, giving rise to the creation of hot springs and geothermal areas [50].…”