Introduction to geochemical mapping

Abstract

Geochemistry plays a relatively crucial role in the exploration for geothermal resources and subsequent utilization. Its major contribution in geothermal resource assessment includes; estimation of subsurface temperatures, determination of the origin of the waters and flow patterns within the reservoir. The major tools used in geochemical mapping are water and gas. Geothermal waters have been classified with respect to their anion and cation constituents into alkali-chloride water, acid sulphate water, acid sulphate-chloride water and bicarbonate water. This paper discusses sampling and analyses of fumaroles and hot springs, soil gas survey, geochemical data interpretation.