Investigation of the geothermal system in region of Selime (Turkey) by resistivity methods

Abstract

The Anatolian platform continues its development with highly complex tectonic activities in Central Anatolia, known as tectonic deformation. In addition to faulting due to the plate movements, the fluid dynamics in the underground and the thermal cycle are also affected. Heater mass circulation plays a role in the development of plate tectonics. This study aimed to determine the geothermal potential of Selime (Aksaray) and its surroundings. The resistivity method was applied in field studies for the objectives. Geothermal fields with high thermal potential have been investigated by Vertical Electric Sounding (VES) profiles. In the field study, five vertical electric soundings (VES) were applied, a general resistance of (50 – 60) Ωm was observed, and Selim tuff was determined at a depth of approximately (30-35) m. A sudden resistance drop of (1-2) Ωm under the Selime tuff layer proved the existence of a geothermal source. When examined with the hydrogeological data, a thermal fluid is present with an impermeable cover layer. As a result of this research, it was observed that the heater mass affected the thermal fluid, indicating that circulation represented a shallow system.

Keywords

• selime
• resistivity
• geothermal fluid
• heater mass convection