Reconnaisance Analysis of a Geothermal System Within the Central Cordillera of Colombia: Nevado Del Ruiz

Abstract

The present work interprets regional gravity and magnetic transects, GIS input, field work and magnetotelluric tactics, to understand structural variations in the northern section of the central cordillera of Colombia. This work is especially focused on refining our comprehension of structural complexities in the vicinity of the Nereidas geothermal system on the western flank of the Nevado Del Ruiz complex. This work will complement current/ongoing field efforts at the intersection of the San Jeronimo (N/S), Palestina (NE/SW), Santa Rosa (NE/SW), and Nereidas fault systems (NW/SE). The location of the these fault systems, their fundamental geometric and structural relationships, and the relevance of understanding kinematic relationships between crustal structures and depth processes have bearing on seismic and volcanic hazards as well as implications for major untapped/undiscovered geothermal fields and actual geothermal exploration.