Hydrogeochemistry of geothermal resources in the eastern part of Turkey: A case study, Varto Region

Abstract

Varto, in the eastern part of Turkey, is settled around the conjunction point of the East Anatolian (EAF) and North Anatolian (NAF) Fault zones. The border of these tectonic zones constitutes seismic belts marked by young volcanic associations and active faults, the latter allowing circulation of waters as well as heat. For this reason, there are various geothermal systems having several hot water springs in the region. The distribution of hot water springs in the Varto Region roughly parallels the distribution of the fault systems and young volcanism. Samples from five hot water and two mineral water springs together with cold (peripheral) waters were collected. Hot water samples were assessed through geothermometers in terms of geothermal usage opportunities.