Use of geochemical and geophysical techniques to characterize and prospect for geothermal resources and hydrothermal ore deposits

Abstract

Fluid-rock interactions alter the geochemical, isotopic, petrographic and physical character of host rocks, producing a permanent record of hydrothermal activity. Maps of altered rock properties show regular variations that disclose master geologic controls and delineate likely sites for geothermal and mineral resources. In many cases, geochemical and stable isotope data reveal the origins of thermal fluids, and they can also provide estimates of reservoir temperatures and identify zones of fluid recharge.

Keywords

geothermal system / hydrothermal system / geophysical prospecting / geochemical prospecting / Mt. Lassen / oxygen isotope

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