| Title | A conceptual model of slate formation: A case from the Lushan geothermal field, Taiwan |
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| Authors | S. Song, T. Song, Y. Lu, Y. Lin, Y. Ko, M. Chen, C. Chen, W. Chiang |
| Year | 2024 |
| Conference | New Zealand Geothermal Workshop |
| Keywords | Slate Formation, Taiwan, Geothermal Conceptual model, Exploration |
| Abstract | Slate is a low-grade metamorphic rock commonly found in orogenic belts like the Taiwan Mountain Range. There are very few geothermal fields with power plants around the world, making the Lushan geothermal field in central Taiwan quite unique. Geologically, this area is mainly composed of metamorphosed mudstone known as the Lushan Formation, which is one of the dominant rock types in Taiwan’s orogenic belt. The rapid uplift and erosion from arc-continent collisions on the island have created a high geothermal gradient of over 50-60°C/km. This leads to a wide distribution of hot springs and thermal features along the river valleys. In response to the growing demand for renewable energy and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Taiwan, we have conducted extensive geological, geophysical, and geochemical explorations in this region, resulting in a wealth of valuable data. We have integrated this information into a 3D geothermal and geological model using: (1) Data from a surface digital elevation model. (2) Local geological maps and profiles. (3) Core data and logging information from drilling wells. (4) 3D distribution results from MT surveys. (5) Borehole temperature measurements and up-to-date field surveys. Preliminary results suggest that the shallow heat sources (less than 1,000 meters below the surface) in the Lushan geothermal field may originate from deeper locations to the southeast. However, when we take a broader view of the MT data, it appears that potential heat sources may actually be coming from the west or southwest, deep beneath the Chunyang area. |