Characteristics and mechanism analysis of geothermal resources innorthern Jianghan Basin

The geothermal energy in the northern Jianghan Basin is considered hydrothermal geothermal resources. Heat generation condition and thermal conduction mechanism are crucial factors affecting the migration of geothermal fluid. However, it is not clear about the controlling factors of geothermal distribution and formation modes in this region. To explore the spread, accumulation and preservation characteristics of geothermal resource in the northern Jianghan basin, the deep geological backgrounds and tectonic characteristics of the target area are analyzed. Also, the genetic model is conceived during the research to have a acquaintance with the process of geothermal energy evolution. Traditional methods, for example the inversion of gravity, magnetic, and electric, are applied to recognize the concealed rock. Besides, numerous data, including seismic, oil and gas wells, geothermal wells and hydrochemical composition, is used to analyze the characteristics of geothermal fields, properties of deep rock mass, structures of geothermal reservoirs and thermal conductivity of faults. The results show that the regional uplifts and depressions control the distribution of geothermal resources. In addition, what play a pivotal role in the connection between deep heat sources and upper prospecting reservoirs are boundary faults of the basin. What’s more, neotectonic activities of faults are beneficial channels for heat and water conduction. On the basis of above researches, the model of geothermal distribution related with fault systems is well established, confirming that geothermal resources are mostly distributed in conjunction zones of differed faults. The findings of this work provide scientific evidence for discovering other geothermal favorable areas in the Jianghan Basin.