Anomalous Crustal Structure Beneath the Örenli-Eğiller Depression Zone, Inferred From Magnetotelluric Studies, Western Anatolia, Türkiye

Abstract

In Türkiye, the prevalence of high radiogenic granites makes them ideal locations for initiating enhanced geothermal system (EGS) projects. One such occurrence of these granites is observed in the Kozak area of the Bergama region. To assess the energy potential of this site, a magnetotelluric (MT) survey was conducted, focusing on determining the depth distribution of the intrusive granite. The survey employed dimensionality analysis, utilizing Bahr skew and phase tensor analyses that denote a 2D subsurface nature up to 100 s and beyond that a 3D nature. In the present study, we interpreted MT data up to 100 s. The data collected, including rotated impedance tensors and tippers, were inverted using a nonlinear conjugate gradient algorithm integrated into the MT interpretation software of the WinG Link 2D inversion data modeling package. Multiple homogeneous half-space initial models were tested during the 2D inversion process. The findings indicate the existence of a midcrustal conductor associated with graphites and iron sulfides in the source region. This conductivity may be attributed to processes such as exsolution of metamorphic fluids, influx of mantle sources, or the entry of magmatic fluids through transcrustal fault zones. The findings indicate that the intrusive granite was emplaced along a NE–SW major fault, penetrating shallow crustal levels. The depth of this granite intrusion is determined to be 15 km, covering an outcrop area of 60 km². This detailed geological information allows a comprehensive assessment of the power-generating capacity of the intrusive granite. The results of this investigation contribute valuable insights for the development and optimization of Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) projects in the region. © 2024, TUBITAK. All rights reserved.