Mixing of geothermal and non-geothermal fluids in shallow aquifers in the Germencik-Nazilli area, Büyük Menderes Basin (SW Turkey)

Abstract

This study observes groundwater hydrochemical characteristics during mixing between geothermal and non-geothermal fluids in Germencik-Nazilli area in the Bÿyÿk Menderes Basin (SW Turkey). Hydrogeochemical features of 32 non-geothermal, geothermal and surface samples were studied. The mean temperatures of the geothermal reservoirs are calculated to be 150-240 °C in Germencik field, based on Na-K-Mg geothermometry. Hydrochemical characteristics of Germencik geothermal fluid differ from non-geothermal fluids, mainly Na-Cl-HCO3-type geothermal fluid, while non-geothermal fluid is mostly Ca-Mg-HCO3-SO4 type. High contents of some minor elements in geothermal fluids are most likely sourced from prolonged water-rock interaction, reflecting the signals of flow paths and residence times. A mass-balance approach was used to calculate mixing ratios between geothermal and non-geothermal fluids based on B, Cl and Na concentrations. Germencik field is considerably characterised by rising geothermal fluids and overlying non-geothermal fluids. The amount of water stored in the Quaternary aquifer evolved from a deep thermal source is low in Germencik (.5-40% geothermal fluid in non-geothermal wells). Mixing between geothermal and non-geothermal fluids has been caused by groundwater utilisation practices and is increased close to active faults. Irrigation of the shallow groundwater composition is considered as influx of low-temperature geothermal fluid. © 2014 Taylor & Francis.