Geochemical response of deep geothermal processes in the Litang region, Western Sichuan:

The geochemical characteristics of geothermically heated water can reveal deep geothermal processes, leading to a better understanding of geothermal system genesis and providing guidance for improved development and utilization of such resources. Hydrochemical and hydrogen oxygen isotope analysis of two geothermal field (district) hot springs based on regional geothermal conditions revealed that the thermal water in the Litang region is primarily of the HCO3Na type. The positive correlations found between F−, Li2+, As+, and Cl− indicated a common origin, and the relatively high Na+ and metaboric acid concentrations suggested a relatively long groundwater recharge time and a slow flow rate. The values of δD and δ18O were well distributed along the local meteoric line, indicating a groundwater recharge essentially driven by precipitation. The thermal reservoir temperature (152°C–195°C) and thermal cycle depth (3156–4070 m) were calculated, and the cold water mixing ratio (60%–68%) was obtained using the sil...