Geochemical/hydrochemical evaluation of the geothermal potential of the Lamongan volcanic field (Eastern Java, Indonesia)

Abstract

Magmatic settings involving active volcanism are potential locations for economic geothermal systems due to the occurrence of high temperature and steam pressures. Indonesia, located along active plate margins, hosts more than 100 volcanoes and, therefore, belongs to the regions with the greatest geothermal potential worldwide. However, tropical conditions and steep terrain reduce the spectrum of applicable exploration methods, in particular in remote areas. In a case study from the Lamongan volcanic field in East Java, we combine field-based data on the regional structural geology, elemental and isotopic composition of thermal waters, and the mineralogical and geochemical signatures of volcanic rocks in exploring hidden geothermal systems. Results suggest infiltration of groundwater at the volcanoes and faults. After infiltration, water is heated and reacts with rocks before rising to the surface. The existence of a potential heat source is petrologically and geophysically constrained to be an active shallow mafic-magma chamber, but its occurrence is not properly reflected in the composition of the collected warmed spring waters that are predominantly meteoric in origin. In conclusion, spring temperature and hydrochemistry alone may not always correctly reflect the deep geothermal potential of an area.