Possible hydrogeological and thermal conditions of the Quilmes Tectonic Trough (Buenos Aires Province, Argentina): a working hypothesis

The proposal of the Quilmes Tectonic Trough (Fosa tectónica de – FQ) as extension southern end Santa Lucía basin in Uruguay and its connection to Salado Argentina suggest existence a large sedimentary volume capable housing new aquifer on La Plata River coast. However, volumes that form FQ are hidden under thick, recently deposited cover, thus, there is lack studies nature this formation. Nevertheless, Uruguayan section Meso-Cenozoic depocenter has been more thoroughly studied for hydrocarbon exploration, which enabled us estimate equivalent tectosedimentary characteristics FQ. In territory, three systems exploited: Raigón (Plio-Pleistocene) aquifer, most important source groundwater various uses south-central region Uruguay, Mercedes (Upper Cretaceous) Migues (Lower aquifers, also used, albeit lesser extent, drinking water, irrigation, industrial purposes. least known three, shows variable depth ranging from 100 1500 m considerable stratigraphic sequences porous permeable sandstones. These sandstones provide with very good qualities reservoir rock; such, potential natural gas reserves geothermal water resources. Accordingly, if same hydrogeological present FQ, similar aquifers interesting properties may remain unidentified along Buenos Aires coast beneath intensely explored Puelches, Pampeano Paraná aquifers. conclusion, specific exploratory activities prove quality these resources, regional slope toward southwest outcrops, upwelling or semiupwelling conditions even energy associated deepest cretaceous