Evaluation of linement analysis as an exploration technique for geothermal energy. Progress report

Technical Report · Tue Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1977

OSTI ID:5534800

Trexler, D T

To evaluate lineament analysis as a technique for geothermal exploration an area of known geothermal activity and high regional heat flow was selected as a test area. An area of north-central Nevada coincident with the Winnemucca AMS sheet and encompassing four Known Geothermal Resource Areas was extensively studied. The primary study area consisting of approximately 7420 sq. mi. (19,219 sq. km) was integrated into the regional lineament patterns by evaluation of Landsat (ERTS) mosaics of the western United States prepared by the Soil Conservation Service, Department of Agriculture. Previous analyses of lineaments in Nevada (Rowan and Wetlaufer, 1973 and 1975) were also used to complement this analysis. Interpretation of Skylab S190-B photography at a scale of 1:250,000 provided intermediate scale structural analysis of approximately 75 percent of the Winnemucca AMS sheet. Low sun-angle aerial photography at scales of approximately 1:120,000 and 1:30,000 provided detailed structural analysis of the four Known Geothermal Resource Areas. Results of previous geologic mapping and geophysical investigations by Lawrency Berkeley Laboratories and others were used to supplement interpretations provided by this phase of the investigation. Field studies supporting the image and photographic interpretation consisted of ground photographic documentation. The relationship of present geothermal activity with Cenozoic normal faulting and the areal distribution of recent volcanics was established. Northeast trending lineaments have played a major role in dictating the location of the four major hot spring areas studied.

• Research Organization: Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Reno (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5534800
• Report Number(s): NYO-0671-T1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
150301* -- Geothermal Exploration & Exploration Technology-- Geophysical Techniques & Surveys
AERIAL SURVEYING
AIRCRAFT
EXPLORATION
GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS
GEOTHERMAL EXPLORATION
GRAVITY SURVEYS
HOT SPRINGS
IMAGE PROCESSING
KGRA
MAGNETIC SURVEYS
NEVADA
NORTH AMERICA
PHOTOGRAPHY
SATELLITES
SKYLAB
SPACE VEHICLES
THERMAL SPRINGS
USA
WESTERN REGION