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Integrating radiometric and aeromagnetic data for assessment of geothermal potential: a case study in Central Eastern Desert, Egypt

  • Research Article - Applied Geophysics
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Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the untapped geothermal potential of Egypt’s Central Eastern Desert, highlighting its viability as a promising contender in the pursuit of sustainable energy resources. Through a rigorous multi-disciplinary approach, we systematically assess the feasibility of deploying geothermal energy in the region, supported by meticulous analysis of diverse data sources, including aeromagnetic and radiometric datasets. Our study identifies two primary sources of heat flow energy: granitic rocks enriched with radioactive minerals and dynamic geological motions. By using techniques such as derivative analysis, power spectra analysis, and heat flow calculations, we evaluate the geothermal potential using aeromagnetic data. The tilted derivative operator enables the detection of geological structures, while Curie depth points (CDPs) provide insights into the geothermal gradient and heat flow maps, revealing the distribution of subsurface heat. Surface heat flow calculations further assess the energy generation potential. Additionally, our analysis incorporates methods to estimate radioactive heat production within geological formations, considering uranium, thorium, and potassium isotopes. The ratios of potassium to thorium and uranium to thorium serve as indicators of hydrothermal alteration zones. The research findings reveal a wide range of heat flow values within the depths of the Curie depth point (CDP), ranging from 200 to 700 W/m2. At the surface, observed heat flow values range from 6 to 22 mW/m2, although relatively lower in magnitude, still hold significant potential for energy production. It is important to acknowledge the contribution of radioactive minerals, as the heat production from these sources ranges from 0 to 35 W/m3. Collectively, these heat sources present viable opportunities for energy extraction, particularly in the area between Safaga and Qusier and the area south of Qusier to Marsa Allam. Surface heat flow and radioactive heat production offer promising prospects for sustainable energy generation.

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Data availability

The data that supports the findings of this study is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Abbreviations

CAL:

Central African Lineament

CDP:

Curie depth point

HF:

Heat flow

RHP:

Radioactive heat production

TAL:

Trans African Lineament

TG:

Thermal gradient

TMI:

Total magnetic intensity

RTP:

Reduction to the magnetic pole

SHF:

Surface heat flow

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Funding

This research was supported by the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology under the funded project with the title “Geothermal Resource Assessment of the Red Sea by Geophysical Modeling.”

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Cairo, Egypt

    Gaber M. Gaber & Adel Kotb

  2. National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG), Helwan, Cairo, Egypt

    Salah Saleh

Authors
  1. Gaber M. Gaber
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  2. Salah Saleh
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  3. Adel Kotb
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Contributions

Gaber M. Gaber played a critical role in the research process by contributing to the design and implementation of the study, analyzing the results, and assisting in the writing of the manuscript. His valuable insights and expertise were instrumental in the success of this project. Salah Saleh and Adel Kotb provided invaluable guidance and oversight throughout the study. Their extensive knowledge and experience in the field ensured that the research was conducted to the highest standards and that the results were accurate and reliable. Their supervision was crucial in ensuring the successful completion of this project.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Gaber M. Gaber.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

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Edited by Prof. Sanjit Kumar Pal (ASSOCIATE EDITOR) / Prof. Gabriela Fernández Viejo (CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF).

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Gaber, G.M., Saleh, S. & Kotb, A. Integrating radiometric and aeromagnetic data for assessment of geothermal potential: a case study in Central Eastern Desert, Egypt. Acta Geophys. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11600-024-01370-y

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