scholarly journals Environmental and anthropogenic gravity contributions at the Þeistareykir geothermal field, North Iceland

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Florian Forster ◽  
Andreas Güntner ◽  
Philippe Jousset ◽  
Marvin Reich ◽  
Benjamin Männel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Model Comparison ◽  
Order Approximation ◽  
Geothermal Field ◽  
Snow Accumulation ◽  
Geothermal System ◽  
Delayed Response ◽  
Local Pressure ◽  
Flow Rates ◽  
Groundwater Levels ◽  
Gravity Signal

AbstractContinuous high-resolution gravimetry is increasingly used to monitor mass distribution changes in volcanic, hydrothermal or other complex geosystems. To quantify the often small target signals, gravity contributions from, e.g. atmospheric mass changes, global and local hydrology should be accounted for. We set up three iGrav superconducting gravity meters for continuous monitoring of the Þeistareykir geothermal field in North Island. Additionally, we installed a set of hydrometeorological sensors at each station for continuous observation of local pressure changes, soil moisture, snow and vertical surface displacement. We show that the contribution of these environmental parameters to the gravity signal does not exceed 10 µGal (1 µGal = 10–8 m s−2), mainly resulting from vertical displacement and snow accumulation. The seasonal gravity contributions (global atmosphere, local and global hydrology) are in the order of ± 2 µGal at each station. Using the environmental observations together with standard gravity corrections for instrumental drift and tidal effects, we comprehensively reduced the iGrav time-series. The gravity residuals were compared to groundwater level changes and geothermal mass flow rates (extraction and injection) of the Þeistareykir power plant. The direct response of the groundwater levels and a time-delayed response of the gravity signal to changes in extraction and injection suggest that the geothermal system is subject to a partially confined aquifer. Our observations indicate that a sustainable “equilibrium” state of the reservoir is reached at extraction flow rates below 240 kg s−1 and injection flow rates below 160 kg s−1. For a first-order approximation of the gravity contributions from extracted and injected masses, we applied a simplified forward gravity model. Comparison to the observed gravity signals suggest that most of the reinjected fluid is drained off through the nearby fracture system.

scholarly journals Environmental And Anthropogenic Gravity Contributions At The Þeistareykir Geothermal Field, North Iceland

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Florian Forster ◽  
Andreas Güntner ◽  
Philippe Jousset ◽  
Marvin Reich ◽  
Benjamin Männel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Surface Displacement ◽  
Environmental Parameters ◽  
Geothermal Field ◽  
Snow Accumulation ◽  
Geothermal System ◽  
Delayed Response ◽  
Local Pressure ◽  
Flow Rates ◽  
Groundwater Levels ◽  
Gravity Signal

Abstract Continuous high resolution gravimetry is increasingly used to monitor mass distribution changes in volcanic, hydrothermal or other complex geosystems. To quantify the often small target signals, gravity contributions from, e.g., atmospheric mass changes, global and local hydrology should be accounted for. We set up three iGrav superconducting gravity meters for continuous monitoring of the Þeistareykir geothermal field in North Island. Additionally, we installed a set of hydrometeorological sensors at each station for continuous observation of local pressure changes, soil moisture, snow and vertical surface displacement. We show that the contribution of these environmental parameters to the gravity signal does not exceed 10 µGal (1 µGal = 10-8 m s-2), mainly resulting from vertical displacement and snow accumulation. The seasonal gravity contributions (global atmosphere, local and global hydrology) are in the order of ±2 µGal at each station. Using the environmental observations together with standard gravity corrections for instrumental drift and tidal effects, we comprehensively reduced the iGrav time series. The gravity residuals were compared to groundwater level changes and geothermal mass flow rates (extraction and injection) of the Þeistareykir power plant. The direct response of the groundwater levels and a time-delayed response of the gravity signal to changes in extraction and injection suggest that the geothermal system is subject to a partially confined aquifer. Our observations indicate that a sustainable “equilibrium” state of the reservoir is reached at extraction flow rates below 240 kg s-1 and injection flow rates below 160 kg s-1.

scholarly journals A modeling study of heterogeneity and surface water-groundwater interactions in the Thomas Brook catchment, Annapolis Valley (Nova Scotia, Canada)

2009 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 2751-2793 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. J. Gauthier ◽  
M. Camporese ◽  
C. Rivard ◽  
C. Paniconi ◽  
M. Larocque
Keyword(s):  
Surface Water ◽  
Snow Accumulation ◽  
Return Flow ◽  
Eastern Canada ◽  
Groundwater Levels ◽  
The North ◽  
Spatio Temporal ◽  
Geological Complexity ◽  
Annapolis Valley ◽  
Response Variables

Abstract. A modelling study of the impacts of subsurface heterogeneity on the hydrologic response of an 8 km2 catchment in the Annapolis Valley (Eastern Canada) is reported. The study is focused in particular on the hydraulic connection and interactions between surface water and groundwater. A coupled (1-D surface/3-D subsurface) numerical model is used to investigate, for a range of scenarios, the spatio-temporal patterns of response variables such as return flow, recharge, groundwater levels, surface saturation, and streamflow. Eight scenarios of increasing geological complexity are simulated, introducing at each step more realistic representations of the geological strata and corresponding hydraulic properties. In a ninth scenario the effects of snow accumulation and snowmelt are also considered. The results show that response variables and significant features of the catchment (e.g., springs) can be adequately reproduced using a representation of the geology and model parameter values that are based on targeted fieldwork and existing databases, and that reflect to a sufficient degree the geological and hydrological complexity of the study area. The hydraulic conductivity values of the thin surficial sediment cover (especially till) and of the North Mountain basalts emerge as key elements of the basin's heterogeneity for properly capturing the overall catchment response.

scholarly journals Radar measurements of blowing snow off a mountain ridge

2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (6) ◽  
pp. 1779-1794
Author(s):  
Benjamin Walter ◽  
Hendrik Huwald ◽  
Josué Gehring ◽  
Yves Bühler ◽  
Michael Lehning
Keyword(s):  
Wind Velocity ◽  
Order Approximation ◽  
Sonic Anemometer ◽  
Snow Accumulation ◽  
Travel Distance ◽  
Storm Event ◽  
Height Distribution ◽  
Blowing Snow ◽  
Mountain Ridge ◽  
Mountainous Regions

Abstract. Modelling and forecasting wind-driven redistribution of snow in mountainous regions with its implications on avalanche danger, mountain hydrology or flood hazard is still a challenging task often lacking in essential details. Measurements of drifting and blowing snow for improving process understanding and model validation are typically limited to point measurements at meteorological stations, providing no information on the spatial variability of horizontal mass fluxes or even the vertically integrated mass flux. We present a promising application of a compact and low-cost radar system for measuring and characterizing larger-scale (hundreds of metres) snow redistribution processes, specifically blowing snow off a mountain ridge. These measurements provide valuable information of blowing snow velocities, frequency of occurrence, travel distances and turbulence characteristics. Three blowing snow events are investigated, two in the absence of precipitation and one with concurrent precipitation. Blowing snow velocities measured with the radar are validated by comparison against wind velocities measured with a 3D ultra-sonic anemometer. A minimal blowing snow travel distance of 60–120 m is reached 10–20 % of the time during a snow storm, depending on the strength of the storm event. The relative frequency of transport distances decreases exponentially above the minimal travel distance, with a maximum measured distance of 280 m. In a first-order approximation, the travel distance increases linearly with the wind velocity, allowing for an estimate of a threshold wind velocity for snow particle entrainment and transport of 7.5–8.8 m s−1, most likely depending on the prevailing snow cover properties. Turbulence statistics did not allow a conclusion to be drawn on whether low-level, low-turbulence jets or highly turbulent gusts are more effective in transporting blowing snow over longer distances, but highly turbulent flows are more likely to bring particles to greater heights and thus influence cloud processes. Drone-based photogrammetry measurements of the spatial snow height distribution revealed that increased snow accumulation in the lee of the ridge is the result of the measured local blowing snow conditions.

scholarly journals Hydrogeochemical Characteristics and Genesis of Geothermal Water from the Ganzi Geothermal Field, Eastern Tibetan Plateau

Water ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 1631
Author(s):  
Fan ◽  
Pang ◽  
Liao ◽  
Tian ◽  
Hao ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Temperature ◽  
Tibetan Plateau ◽  
Heat Source ◽  
Chloride Concentration ◽  
Geothermal Field ◽  
Geothermal Water ◽  
Helium Isotope ◽  
Geothermal System ◽  
The Tibetan Plateau ◽  
Geothermal Waters

The Ganzi geothermal field, located in the eastern sector of the Himalayan geothermal belt, is full of high-temperature surface manifestations. However, the geothermal potential has not been assessed so far. The hydrochemical and gas isotopic characteristics have been investigated in this study to determine the geochemical processes involved in the formation of the geothermal water. On the basis of δ18O and δD values, the geothermal waters originate from snow and glacier melt water. The water chemistry type is dominated by HCO3-Na, which is mainly derived from water-CO2-silicate interactions, as also indicated by the 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.714098–0.716888). Based on Cl-enthalpy mixing model, the chloride concentration of the deep geothermal fluid is 37 mg/L, which is lower than that of the existing magmatic heat source area. The estimated reservoir temperature ranges from 180–210 °C. Carbon isotope data demonstrate that the CO2 mainly originates from marine limestone metamorphism, with a fraction of 74–86%. The helium isotope ratio is 0.17–0.39 Ra, indicating that the He mainly comes from atmospheric and crustal sources, and no more than 5% comes from a mantle source. According to this evidence, we propose that there is no magmatic heat source below the Ganzi geothermal field, making it a distinctive type of high-temperature geothermal system on the Tibetan Plateau.

scholarly journals Geochemical response of deep geothermal processes in the Litang region, Western Sichuan

2018 ◽  
Vol 37 (2) ◽  
pp. 626-645
Author(s):  
Wei Zhang ◽  
Guiling Wang ◽  
Linxiao Xing ◽  
Tingxin Li ◽  
Jiayi Zhao
Keyword(s):  
Groundwater Recharge ◽  
Hot Springs ◽  
Cold Water ◽  
Isotope Analysis ◽  
Geothermal Field ◽  
Geothermal System ◽  
Calcite Dissolution ◽  
Western Sichuan ◽  
Geothermal Fields ◽  
Positive Correlations

The geochemical characteristics of geothermically heated water can reveal deep geothermal processes, leading to a better understanding of geothermal system genesis and providing guidance for improved development and utilization of such resources. Hydrochemical and hydrogen oxygen isotope analysis of two geothermal field (district) hot springs based on regional geothermal conditions revealed that the thermal water in the Litang region is primarily of the HCO3Na type. The positive correlations found between F−, Li2+, As+, and Cl− indicated a common origin, and the relatively high Na+ and metaboric acid concentrations suggested a relatively long groundwater recharge time and a slow flow rate. The values of δD and δ18O were well distributed along the local meteoric line, indicating a groundwater recharge essentially driven by precipitation. The thermal reservoir temperature (152°C–195°C) and thermal cycle depth (3156–4070 m) were calculated, and the cold water mixing ratio (60%–68%) was obtained using the silica-enthalpy model. Finally, hydrogeochemical pathway simulation was used to analyze the evolution of geothermal water in the region. The results were further supported by the high metasilicate content in the region. Of the geothermal fields in the region, it was found that the Kahui is primarily affected by albite, calcite precipitation, and silicate, while the Gezha field is primarily affected by calcite dissolution, dolomite precipitation, and silicate.

RESISTIVITY, SELF‐POTENTIAL, AND INDUCED‐POLARIZATION SURVEYS OF A VAPOR‐DOMINATED GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM

Geophysics ◽  
1973 ◽  
Vol 38 (6) ◽  
pp. 1130-1144 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. A. R. Zohdy ◽  
L. A. Anderson ◽  
L. J. P. Muffler
Keyword(s):  
Geothermal Field ◽  
Induced Polarization ◽  
Hot Water ◽  
Thermal Waters ◽  
Geothermal System ◽  
Electrical Soundings ◽  
Lateral Extent ◽  
High Concentrations ◽  
Lake Deposits ◽  
Self Potential

The Mud Volcano area in Yellowstone National Park provides an example of a vapor‐dominated geothermal system. A test well drilled to a depth of about 347 ft penetrated the vapor‐dominated reservoir at a depth of less than 300 ft. Subsequently, 16 vertical electrical soundings (VES) of the Schlumberger type were made along a 3.7‐mile traverse to evaluate the electrical resistivity distribution within this geothermal field. Interpretation of the VES curves by computer modeling indicates that the vapor‐dominated layer has a resistivity of about 75–130 ohm‐m and that its lateral extent is about 1 mile. It is characteristically overlain by a low‐resistivity layer of about 2–6.5 ohm‐m, and it is laterally confined by a layer of about 30 ohm‐m. This 30‐ohm‐m layer, which probably represents hot water circulating in low‐porosity rocks, also underlies most of the survey at an average depth of about 1000 ft. Horizontal resistivity profiles, measured with two electrode spacings of an AMN array, qualitatively corroborate the sounding interpretation. The profiling data delineate the southeast boundary of the geothermal field as a distinct transition from low to high apparent resistivities. The northwest boundary is less distinctly defined because of the presence of thick lake deposits of low resistivities. A broad positive self‐potential anomaly is observed over the geothermal field, and it is interpretable in terms of the circulation of the thermal waters. Induced‐polarization anomalies were obtained at the northwest boundary and near the southeast boundary of the vapor‐dominated field. These anomalies probably are caused by relatively high concentrations of pyrite.

scholarly journals The Hydrothermal Alteration of the Cordón de Inacaliri Volcanic Complex in the Framework of the Hidden Geothermal Systems within the Pabelloncito Graben (Northern Chile)

Minerals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (11) ◽  
pp. 1279
Author(s):  
Santiago Nicolás Maza ◽  
Gilda Collo ◽  
Diego Morata ◽  
Carolina Cuña-Rodriguez ◽  
Marco Taussi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hydrothermal Alteration ◽  
Geothermal Field ◽  
Geothermal System ◽  
Volcanic Complex ◽  
Geothermal Systems ◽  
Acid Sulfate ◽  
Alteration Zones ◽  
Geological Processes ◽  
Freshwater Bodies ◽  
Hydrothermal Alteration Zones

Detailed mineralogical analyses in areas with surface hydrothermal alteration zones associated with recent volcanism (<1 Ma) in the Central Andean Volcanic Zone could provide key information to unravel the presence of hidden geothermal systems. In the Cordón de Inacaliri Volcanic Complex, a geothermal field with an estimated potential of ~1.08 MWe·km−2 has been recently discovered. In this work, we focus on the hydrothermal alteration zones and discharge products of this area, with the aim to reconstruct the geological processes responsible for the space-time evolution leading to the geothermal records. We identified (1) discharge products associated with acid fluids that could be related to: (i) acid-sulfate alteration with alunite + kaolinite + opal CT + anatase, indicating the presence of a steam-heated blanket with massive fine-grained silica (opal-CT), likely accumulated in mud pots where the intersection of the paleowater table with the surface occurred; (ii) argillic alteration with kaolinite + hematite + halloysite + smectite + I/S + illite in the surrounding of the acid-sulfate alteration; and (2) discharge products associated with neutral-alkaline fluids such as: (i) discontinuous pinnacle-like silica and silica deposits with laterally developed coarse stratification which, together with remaining microorganisms, emphasize a sinter deposit associated with alkaline/freshwater/brackish alkaline-chlorine water bodies and laterally associated with (ii) calcite + aragonite deriving from bicarbonate waters. The scarce presence of relics of sinter deposits, with high degree crystallinity phases and diatom remnants, in addition to alunite + kaolinite + opal CT + anatase assemblages, is consistent with a superimposition of a steam-heated environment to a previous sinter deposit. These characters are also a distinguishing feature of paleosurface deposits associated with the geothermal system of the Cordón de Inacaliri Volcanic Complex. The presence of diatoms in heated freshwater bodies at 5100 m a.s.l. in the Atacama Desert environment could be related with the last documented deglaciation in the area (~20–10 ka), an important factor in the recharge of the hidden geothermal systems of the Pabelloncito graben.

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