Application of Integrated Multicomponent Geothermometry to a Tengchong Geothermal Field, Southwestern China

Abstract

Geothermal reservoir temperature is an important parameter of geothermal research and development. Classical geothermometers have been commonly applied to determine geothermal temperatures. When the deep geochemical signatures are masked by effects of gas loss, mixing and/or dilution, these “classical” geothermometers often give inaccurate results. The integrated multicomponent geothermometry (IMG) coupled with numerical optimization is able to reconstruct deep fluid chemical composition and give relatively reasonable results. Using the IMG simulation method, we have investigated geothermal reservoir temperatures for a Tengchong geothermal field in Southwestern China. The results show that the reservoir temperature in the study area ranges from 206 to 250 degrees Celsius, which is consistent with field observations during geothermal exploration. The results of the quartz geothermometer are closest to the IMG results. Therefore, we believe the optimized IMG is the most credible geothermometry in this study area. Al and Mg concentrations have significant impact on precipitation and dissolution of minerals. Accurate selection of reservoir rock minerals is the key for the success of the use of the integrated multicomponent geothermometry.