WoS İndeksli Yayınlar Koleksiyonu / WoS Indexed Publications Collection
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/11147/7150
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Article Sustainable Recovery of Critical Raw Materials From Geothermal Igneous Systems: Geochemical, Mineralogical, and Techno-Economic Insights from the Dikili-Bergama Field (Western Anatolia, Turkiye)(Elsevier, 2026) Ayzit, Tolga; Baba, AlperThe sustainable co-extraction of critical raw materials (CRMs) with renewable geothermal energy offers a dual pathway to support the circular economy and low-carbon transition. In this study, an integrated geochemical and mineralogical approach is used to comprehensively assess the recoverable lithium (Li) boron (B), strontium (Sr) and other critical raw materials in the geothermal reservoirs of the Dikili-Bergama region Turkiye. A geochemical analysis was carried out by systematic sampling and multi-element testing of geothermal water and reservoir rock. Hydrogeochemical studies of the geothermal fluids indicated the presence of remarkable concentrations of B (4.6 ppm), Sr (2.8 ppm) and Li (1.2 ppm), suggesting the possibility of active leaching processes in the deposit. Mineralogical studies using X-ray diffraction (XRD) have revealed a number of secondary mineral phases, such as quartz and labradorite, indicating the interaction between water and rock. These interactions affect not only the permeability and porosity of the deposit, but also the mobilization and precipitation of CRMs. A techno-economic analysis will be used to identify potential synergies that could improve the economic feasibility of geothermal projects in the region. The Monte Carlo simulation has shown that the Dikili-Bergama geothermal reservoirs have a potential of similar to 712 tons of Li. In this study, the CRM potential that emerged during the geothermal energy exploitation process in the region was calculated. The temporality and the process of obtaining are completely related to the extraction technology. This offers the dual benefit of renewable energy and strategic mineral extraction, contributing to sustainable resource management in volcanic environments.Article Fluid-CO2 Injection in a Hypersaline Volcanic Systems: A Reactive Transport and Experimental Evaluation with Application to the Tuzla Geothermal Field, Turkiye(Springer, 2026) Tonkul, Serhat; Erol, Selcuk; Baba, Alper; Regenspurg, SimonaThis study evaluates the CO2 sequestration capability of the Tuzla Geothermal Field (TGF) in northwest T & uuml;rkiye under reservoir conditions (200 degrees C and 4.4 MPa). While ongoing studies at TGF have investigated CO2 co-injection primarily for geothermal heat extraction, the present study focuses on the associated potential for long-term CO2 storage. To this end, CO2-brine-rock interactions were examined through batch reactor experiments and reaction path modeling using the PhreeqC geochemical tool. The experiments revealed complex dissolution/precipitation reactions that altered reservoir properties, with mineralogical analyses (XRD, XRF, SEM, and EDS) showing the formation of secondary phases such as calcite, kaolinite, and Ca-rich aluminosilicates. These results indicate that the Tuzla reservoir rocks provide sufficient divalent cations to support mineral trapping under reservoir conditions. Overall, our findings highlight that, in addition to its promise for heat extraction, CO2 co-injection at TGF offers an opportunity for permanent geological storage, thereby strengthening the dual benefits of this approach.Article Hydrogeochemical Assessment and Health Risks of Groundwater in Sahand Volcanic Foreland (NW Iran): Arsenic Speciation and Heavy Metal Risk Indicators(Academic Press Inc Elsevier Science, 2026) Ghayurdoost, Farhad; Zarghami, Mahdi; Sadeghfam, Sina; Jabraili-Andaryan, Nasser; Nikmaram, Sara; Baba, Alper; Mosaferi, MohammadDue to the toxic nature of arsenic (As) and its elevated concentrations in many water resources, numerous studies have focused on understanding its origin, distribution, and impacts. This study aimed to identify the dominant As species in groundwater of the Sahand Volcanic Foothills, assess water quality indices, and examine heavy metal (HM) concentrations to address rising concerns about groundwater contamination. A total of 21 groundwater samples were collected and analyzed in accordance with world health organization (WHO) guidelines. Although most samples fell within acceptable ranges, several (notably S10, S20, and S21) exhibited elevated levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and HMs, particularly iron (Fe) and As. Hydrochemical assessments using Piper, Gibbs, Stiff, and Schoeller diagrams indicated that geochemical processes resulting from rock dissolution were the main factors controlling groundwater chemistry, with limited influence from anthropogenic pollution. According to the groundwater quality index (GWQI), most samples were categorized as "good" to "excellent," though some areas ranged from "moderate" to "very poor." HM pollution indices revealed that As concentrations exceeded permissible limits. Health risk assessments further showed that both oral and dermal exposure posed significant carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks, especially for children. Speciation analysis indicated that arsenate (As V) was the dominant form of As, consistent with oxidizing aquifer conditions, and is less biologically hazardous than arsenite (As III). The study highlights the necessity of continuous groundwater monitoring, effective pollution source management, and implementation of protective regulations to mitigate environmental and health risks in the region.Article Development and Validation of Regression Model via Machine Learning to Estimate Thermal Conductivity and Heat Flow Using Igneous Rocks from the Dikili-Bergama Geothermal Region, Western Anatolia(Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd, 2026) Ayzit, Tolga; Sahin, Onur Gungor; Erol, Selcuk; Baba, AlperThermal conductivity is a fundamental parameter that significantly influences the thermal regime of the lithosphere. It plays a crucial role in a variety of geological applications, including geothermal energy exploration, igneous system assessment, and tectonic modeling. In this study, a machine learning approach is used to predict the thermal conductivity of igneous rocks based on the composition of major oxides. A total of 488 samples from different regions of the world were analyzed. The thermal conductivity values ranged from 1.20 to 3.74 Wm(-1) K-1 and the mean value was 2.61 Wm(-1) K-1. The Random Forest (RF) algorithm was used, resulting in a high coefficient of determination (R-2 = 0.913 for training and R-2 = 0.794 for testing) and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.112 and 0.179, respectively. Significance analysis of the traits identified SiO2 (>40 %), Na2O (>15 %) and Al2O3 (>10 %) as the most influential predictors. The study presented results from the Western Anatolia region, where felsic rocks had the highest thermal conductivity (mean = 2.69 Wm(-)(1)K(-)(1)) compared to mafic (mean = 2.34 Wm(-)(1)K(-)(1)) and ultramafic rocks (mean = 2.39 Wm(-)(1)K(-)(1)). In addition, the study evaluated the predictive capabilities of machine learning models for the igneous rocks of the Dikili-Bergama region and compared the results with those of saturated models. Using these data, we calculated heat flow values of up to 400 mWm(-2) under saturated conditions in western Anatolia. These results highlight the value of integrating geochemical data with machine learning to improve geothermal resource exploration and lithospheric modeling.Article The Relation of Geogenic and Antrophogenic Factors with Blood and Hair Lead and Arsenic Levels in Women Living in Can and Bayramic Districts of Canakkale Province(Nobel Ilac, 2019) Baba, Alper; Gunduz, Orhan; Bakar, Coskun; Sulun, Serdar; Save, DilsadObjective: Mining areas and associated industrial activities carry considerable risks for human health due to multi-pathway exposure of heavy metals such as arsenic and lead. The objective of this study was to compare arsenic and lead levels it human blood and hair samples in all industrial mining area in northwestern Turkey with that of non-exposed group demonstrating similar sociocultural characteristics. Material and Method: The population of the study consisted of 674 nonsmoker women over the age of 40 who were selected on random basis from mine region and control area. Venous blood samples were taken and analyzed fur blood lead and arsenic levels in all participants. Hair samples were later collected from 108 women with high levels in blood samples. Results: The results showed that the highest prevalence of occurrences was found in district centers whereas relatively lower values were observed in the villages. Hail arsenic and lead levels were comparably higher in the industrialized area (can Region) where low-quality coal combustion used in power generation and residential heating were dominant. Conclusion: Although high correlations were not found, blood and hair arsenic and lead levels in individuals living in industrial in agricultural areas were found to he high at levels influencing the human health On the other hand, these results should be further supported and verified with advanced and long duration monitoring activities.Article Nature-Based Solutions in Island Water Management: A Case Study From Bozcaada (Türkiye)(Academic Press Ltd- Elsevier Science Ltd, 2025) Samiloglu, Bilgesu; Baba, Alper; Cuevas, Raquel Marijuan; Gunduz, OrhanNature-based Solutions (NbS) are increasingly recognized for their role in the sustainable management of water resources, especially in Mediterranean regions facing seasonal water scarcity. While their benefits for biodiversity and climate resilience are well documented, there is little research on their application in small island regions where ecological fragility and water scarcity intersect. This study fills this gap by investigating the potential of NbS, particularly rainwater harvesting systems, on the island of Bozcaada (T & uuml;rkiye). A high-resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was developed to delineate the watersheds of the island and analyze the water flow patterns. These watersheds were analyzed for their water retention potential and suitability for rainwater storage. The geological structure, soil type and native biodiversity were included in the site selection process to ensure ecological compatibility. Based on this analysis, optimal locations for ponds were identified and designed to support groundwater recharge and preserve local ecosystems. The results show that strategically placed rainwater ponds can improve seasonal water availability, reduce dependence on external sources and support native species throughout the year. This NbS-based approach provides a replicable framework for sustainable water management on small Mediterranean islands, emphasizing ecological integration and long-term resilience.Article Assessment of the Repeatability of Column Experiments Results on the Example of a Conservative Tracer(Sciendo, 2025) Pietrzak, Damian; Kania, Jaroslaw; Kmiecik, Ewa; Baba, AlperMost studies on the behavior of pollutants in the groundwater environment are carried out in laboratories, and the results are then implemented at local and regional levels using model simulations or analytical solutions. Column experiments are used to determine the transport characteristics of inorganic and organic chemicals in the soil and water environment. Although column experiments have been conducted regularly for many years, there is currently no established standard protocol for setting up and conducting them to ensure consistent results. The repeatability of column experiments was evaluated for soils, which differ primarily in the silt and clay content, using a conservative tracer susceptible only to advection and dispersion processes to reduce the number of variables affecting the results of the study which arise in a case of using reactive contaminants. The column experiments performed according to the adopted methodology are characterized by high repeatability of the obtained test results for the transport parameters, regardless of the type of injection or the chosen column length (only a small-scale effect is visible). Based on the results, it can be noticed that for the same soil the values of the pore-water velocity for different types of injections and column lengths are very similar. The percentage difference between the values of pore-water velocity obtained for both tested soils does not exceed 5% and for individual pairs of parallel column experiments it does not exceed 3%.Article Citation - WoS: 1Citation - Scopus: 1Traditional Water Harvesting Systems in Climate Change Adaptation: Insights From a Semi-Arid Mediterranean Village(Middle East Technical Univ, 2025) Gercek, Deniz; Yuceer, Hulya; Gonulal, Yasemin Ozcan; Ustuk, Ozan; Uzelli, Taygun; Guler, Selen; Baba, AlperTraditional water harvesting systems (WHS), developed over centuries by past civilizations, have long played a crucial role in addressing water scarcity in semi-arid regions. Although these systems have been largely neglected with the expansion of modern water infrastructure, they remain a valuable heritage containing significant knowledge and practices that are still relevant today, particularly in overcoming water management challenges in the face of climate change. Although traditional WHSs have been studied across various regions, their forms and functions vary significantly due to unique climatic, geological, and cultural conditions. In the Mediterranean context, small-scale WHSs have received comparatively limited attention-particularly studies that integrate both their revitalization for contemporary use and their historical and cultural significance. This study aims to help bridge that gap and contribute the existing literature by focusing on the WHSs in Barbaros, a semi-arid village on the Aegean coast of Turkey. Barbaros is particularly unique due to its special geological conditions, as the porous soil makes water retention difficult, which adds to the importance of traditional WHSs. In this context, the main objective of this research is to comprehensively assess these systems, by considering the area's topography, geological features, WHS construction techniques, and local knowledge transmitted across generations. This multidisciplinary approach, combining a literature review, field observations, expert surveys and interviews with long-time residents, enables a comprehensive analysis of the typologies, current state and socio-cultural evolution of these systems. A thorough understanding of these systems is essential to assess their resilience and relevance for climate change adaptation, especially with regard to drought management. The study concludes that, despite their partial abandonment, the traditional WHSs in Barbaros offer valuable insights into sustainable water management and demonstrate their potential as practical models for addressing today's water challenges.Article Decision-Support Approaches for Sustainable Water Resource Management in Northwest Algeria(Polish Society of Ecological Engineering – PTIE, 2025) Meskine, Ahmed; Cherif, El Amine; Zerouali, Bilel; Ouadja, Abid; Santos, Celso Augusto Guimaraes; Bailek, Nadjem; Baba, AlperThis study investigates water resource management in the Wilaya of Mostaganem, northwest Algeria, using the water evaluation and planning (WEAP) decision support tool in combination with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). As water scarcity becomes increasingly critical due to population growth, agricultural demands, and climate variability, effective management strategies are essential. This research employs WEAP to simulate various water demand and supply scenarios, assessing the impacts of irrigation efficiency, industrial development, and climate conditions on water availability. Under the ASI scenario, unsatisfied water demand may reach 4.3 hm3 per year by 2027. However, improving irrigation efficiency could reduce this by up to 50% compared to the reference scenario. Seasonal variations reveal deficits reaching 3.2 hm3 per month during the summer months of July through October. Additionally, the study highlights that a significant increase in water demand, exceeding 80 hm3 by 2060, can be mitigated through improved water supply initiatives, such as constructing new dams. The integration of AHP enables the prioritization of management strategies based on stakeholder preferences, demonstrating that adapting to climate change can stabilize demand below 50 million cubic meters. This integrated approach provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in developing sustainable water resource strategies that address the challenges faced by the Mostaganem region.Article Citation - WoS: 1Citation - Scopus: 1Petrogenesis and Comprehensive Thermal Assessment of the Dikili-Bergama Region, Western Anatolia(Pergamon-elsevier Science Ltd, 2025) Ayzit, Tolga; Erol, Selcuk; Baba, AlperVarious methods are available to evaluate the thermal properties and energy potential of geothermal fields. The heat flow method is crucial for thermal modeling and understanding geological evolution. It helps to assess the impact of geological formations on various processes, including hydrocarbon generation and structural modeling. This study focuses on the Dikili-Bergama geothermal region and presents heat flow trends based on thermal modeling. The analysis of volcanic rock petrogenesis data and a thermal model are presented based on data from deep and shallow boreholes. The geothermal gradient is found to vary between 66.28 degrees C km-1 and 121.68 degrees C km-1, according to the interpolated data. Additionally, the study investigates the geochemical and lithological properties of magmatic rocks in the Dikili-Bergama region. The Kozak pluton group's has been measured to have radioactive heat production of up to 7.4 mu Wm-3. Thermal conductivity properties and correlations, along with heat flow assessment, contribute to the understanding of geothermal potential. The mean dry thermal conductivity of the rocks in the study area is 2.33 Wm-1K-1. The data for the terrestrial heat flow and the radioactive heat flow values are up to 200 mWm-2. The integration of 3D geological models and thermal models has highlighted the south western area of the study as a promising location for unconventional geothermal operations.