Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Thermal Springs in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

South Africa has a relatively large number of thermal springs – especially for a country in which no recent volcanic activity has occurred. A large proportion of the 87 documented springs are located in the northernmost region of the country where they are associated with deep faults in the earth’s crust. Some of these hot springs have been developed into successful family tourism resorts, while others remain undeveloped. Thermal springs may have considerable economic potential of developed in a sustainable manner. A research project is being conducted to determine the optimal use of the springs. This paper focuses on the geological and structural features of the thermal springs in Limpopo as well as their thermal and chemical characteristics. The characteristics of 14 thermal springs are given, one of which has not been documented previously.
The research indicates that most thermal springs in Limpopo are associated with major faults in the Waterberg and Soutpansberg regions of the country. All are of meteoric origin and have temperatures ranging from 25°C to 67.5°C. The mineral composition of the thermal waters reflects the geological formations found at the depth of origin. The fluoride and bromine concentrations of waters from the majority of springs do not conform to domestic water quality guidelines and makes the water unfit for human consumption. Unacceptably high values of trace elements such as antimony, mercury, selenium and arsenic were found at some springs.