B4824 - GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS

Learning outcomes

This course aims at providing a general introduction to the main geological features of a geothermal system, and how the typical geochemical tools are used to inform exploration and monitoring activities in this environment. The course is divided in two modules. The first introduces the geological characteristics of the geothermal systems, their hydrothermal resources (e.g., mineral deposits, hot springs), and the field and laboratory methods used for these studies. The second module focuses on the geochemical methods used to analyse geothermal fluids and gases, and their applications to define active processes (e.g., geothermometry). The course includes field and laboratory activities in an active geothermal system (Mt. Amiata) and interactions with a company that is actively exploring and exploiting geothermal resources. The course will provide the basic competencies to study a geothermal system and its resources from a geological/geochemical standpoint.

Course contents

Module 1: Geological Characteristics of Geothermal Systems. Ore Deposits of Geothermal Systems. Metals in the Environment and in Geothermal Systems. Case studies and practicals.

Module 2: Water geochemistry. Gas geochemistry. Isotope geochemistry (H, O, C, S, noble gases). Geochemical exploration. Case studies andassignments

Readings/Bibliography

Readings will be provided by the course instructors

Teaching methods

Room lectures and class practicals

Assessment methods

1. Class participation and effectiveness during classroom exercises – 25%

2. Oral exam – 75%

Teaching tools

Microsoft powerpoint presentations

Office hours

See the website of Paolo Garofalo

See the website of Dmitri Rouwet