Outline

　We compiled a nationwide hydrothermal database that enables
comprehensive evaluation of Japan’s hydrothermal systems, and
published key data in the form of the Atlas of Hydrothermal
Systems in Japan.

Details

　We collected the data from chemical analyses of 7,203 hot springs and temperature data from 3,066 wells throughout Japan, and created Japan’s first nationwide maps showing the regional characteristics of the chemical compositions of hydrothermal systems and the hydrothermal reservoir temperatures as measured by various types of geochemical thermometer. We also used this database to quantitatively elucidate the dependence of pH on depth, and we mapped the underground temperature structure extrapolated from standardized depth–temperature curves (right). Muraoka, H., Sakaguchi, K., Tamanyu, S., Sasaki, M., Shigeno, H. and Mizugaki, K. (2007) Atlas of Hydrothermal Systems in Japan, Geological Survey of Japan, AIST, 110p.

Applications

　This high spatial resolution data can be used for a wide variety of regional assessment purposes, including geothermal resource development, hot spring spa development, groundwater utilization, underground space utilization, and geological disposal. This publication also enables the immediate imaging of regional distribution of geothermal resources, and we are currently carrying out this research.

Contact person

Hirofumi Muraoka, e-mail :hiro-muraoka{at}aist.go.jp