Characteristics and Research Significance of Micro-Nanoparticles in Geothermal Fluids in the Central Area of Shandong Province

Abstract

The micro-nanoparticles found in geothermal fluids exhibit distinct characteristics that hold great potential for detecting deeply concealed geothermal resources. Utilizing a nanoparticle tracking analyzer (NTA), we conducted observations on karst geothermal fluids collected from the central region of Shandong Province, specifically Jinan and Zibo. Our investigation revealed the presence of a significant quantity of naturally occurring micro-nanoparticles within these geothermal fluids, with particle sizes typically falling in the range of 100 nm to 5 μm. To gain a comprehensive understanding of these micro-nanoparticles, we subjected them to a detailed analysis, encompassing their type, shape, crystal structure, and chemical composition. This in-depth examination was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Our findings, supported by TEM images and energy dispersive spectroscopy, indicated that these micro-nanoparticles in the geothermal fluid samples predominantly exhibit amorphous characteristics and possess irregular or nearly spherical shapes, often accompanied by rough edges. Furthermore, it was evident that the composition of these micro-nanoparticles primarily consists of carbonates, sulfates, and chlorides, which contain elements such as Fe, Ca, and Na. The distinctive features of these micro-nanoparticles provide valuable insights into the properties of the high-temperature reservoirs and aquifers from which they originate. As a result, we firmly assert that natural micro-nanoparticles can significantly contribute to the detection and comprehensive study of concealed geothermal resources within the Earth. This novel approach offers a promising method for exploring and gaining a deeper understanding of these hidden geothermal resources.

Characteristics and Significance of Natural Nanoparticles in the Groundwater of the Baotu Spring Area in Jinan, Shandong Province, Eastern China

“…Iron-bearing particles of the same type exhibit certain regularities in morphology; hematite particles often appear as cubic aggregates (Figure 6), and iron oxide particles are in aggregate forms (Figure 7). The above research indicates that the composition of the nanoparticles in groundwater from the recharge area and discharge area is relatively consistent, which is also the same as the nanoparticles found in the hot spring in Northern Jinan (see the details in Zuo et al [27]). These findings indicate that the recharge area and discharge area, as well as the northern geothermal zone, indeed have certain hydraulic connections.…”

“…Many natural activities can produce nanoparticles, leading to a significant natural The above research indicates that the composition of the nanoparticles in groundwater from the recharge area and discharge area is relatively consistent, which is also the same as the nanoparticles found in the hot spring in Northern Jinan (see the details in Zuo et al [27]).…”

Biomimetic Fe-bearing nanoparticles in hot spring: morphology, origin and potential bioavailable Fe

“…These nanoparticles are formed from both geochemical and biological processes. Numerous investigations also have shown the presence of a significant quantity of natural in hot spring, such as Tobler et al found natural SiO 2 nanoparticles in the Icelandic geothermal areas (Tobler et al, 2008), Wu et al confirmed natural MnSiO 3 , Fe (1-x) S, SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 , FeSO 4 and Na 2 CO 3 in Taiwan hot springs (Wu et al, 2016) and Zuo et al found numerous natural carbonates, sulfates, and chlorides nanoparticles occurring in geothermal fluids form the central area of Shandong Province (Zuo et al, 2023). In addition, geothermal energy can make higher geothermal gradient, which can serve as one of the driving forces behind the migration of nanoscale materials (Wang et al, 2005).…”