Study of Geothermal Characteristics Based on the Geochemistry of Makula Hot Springs Wala Area, South Sangalla, Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Numerous present-day hot springs in the Sulawesi region are divided into two, generally associated with non-volcanic and tectonics geothermal systems, only a small number are associated with active volcanoes, but most do not yet have data to support their utilization.Here we have conducted research at Makula Hot Springs South Sulawesi, the method used is combined geochemical analysis with an estimation of subsurface temperature by using the geothermometer at three sites at Makula Hot Springs. The percentage values of HCO³ˉ, Clˉ, and SO₄²ˉ ion content in hot water samples were analyzed, indicating that the hot springs area was included in the chloride water type. While the results of the estimation of subsurface temperature by using the geothermometer Na -K from the three sites each show the following temperatures: Site I is 124.69℃, Site II is 122.65℃, and Site III is 114.75℃. All sites result in estimations suggested including the low enthalpy which has a temperature limit of <125℃. Furthermore, using the geothermometer Na -K -Mg is known, and the hot springs in the area are included in the partial equilibrium. Geothermal energy in the study area is used for public swimming baths, the development of a tourist attraction, and potentially for a power plant. However, it is still necessary to investigate the geothermal characteristics to maximize the utilization of the hot springs in this area.