Geothermal Surface Mapping and Chemical Sampling in Krýsuvík at: Seltún, Trölladyngja, and Austurengjar
Author: Julianna Hogenson
Year: 2017
Supervisors: Juliet Newson, Sigurður Garðar Kristinsson & Finnbogi Óskarsson
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess, test, and analyze the geothermal surface manifestations in the Krýsuvík volcanic system on the Reykjanes Peninsula. This included:1) Geothermal surface manifestation mapping 2) Soil and geothermal feature temperature sampling, 3) Geochemical steam sampling and geothermometer analysis 4) Surface boundary soil temperature time series data sampling. The results were compared with previously collected data in the area. The geothermal mapping showed an increase in surface activity associated with faulting activity and shifts in the strength of geothermal features. Most of the geothermometer results showed temperatures between 260-330°C, consistent with older data from 2011-2017. The temperature time series data was heavily influenced by precipitation and proved to be semi-inconclusive. The combination of the geothermal mapping and geochemical results showed a possible gradual heating of the geothermal system. This contradicted the measured temperatures from previous exploratory drilling that showed a cooling of the system in comparison to the alteration minerals.