Fossil vs. Active Geothermal Systems: A Field and Laboratory Method to Disclose the Relationships between Geothermal Fluid Flow and Geological Structures at Depth

Comparison between fossil and analogue active geothermal systems permit to obtain key-parameters define a conceptual model of the area under exploration. The approach is based on structural, kinematic, fluid inclusions analyses. system investigated describe distribution hydrothermal mineralization as witness flow through geological structures bodies, at depth. Structural kinematic data (to preferential direction flow) are collected in structural stations by scan lines boxes key outcrops. Distribution, length, width fractures, veins bring evaluate permeability and, analogy, deep roots system. Fluid analysis shed light density, viscosity, temperature paleo-fluids. Data integration provides hydraulic conductivity. In systems, fieldwork addressed paleo-stress with from recent faults (<2 Ma), compare local focal mechanisms. By this, indications present pathways given. main advantage resides obtaining parameters normally got after drilling, thus contributing strengthen strategy exploration, de-risking unsuccessful boreholes.