The Distribution and Environment Problems of Geothermal Springs in Development and Utilization in Beijing-Tianjin-Tangshan-Qinhuangdao Area, China

Abstract

Beijing-Tianjin-Tangshan- Qinhuangdao area structurally lies in the fault-fold belt before Yanshan orogenic belt. The geothermal springs are divided into two types: the natural outcrop type and the hidden artificial type of heat reservoir, the former of which is controlled by piedmont faulted , extending EW; while the latter of which is controlled by regional structure and geothermal field. Geothermal spring water is low salinity and neutral even low alkaline water, whose chemical type is mainly SO4•HCO3- Na and SO4•Cl•HCO3- Na. As the water is rich in fluoride and multiple heavy metals, it pollutes drinking water, soil, crops in different degree during the development and utilization. H2S and CO2 in the geothermal water also does harm to the atmosphere more or less.

Influence of Mineral Deposition on the Retention of Potentially Hazardous Elements in Geothermal Spring Sediments

“…The release of hazardous and toxic components, such as heavy metals and hydrogen sulfide, from the geothermal springs could result in the contamination of the surrounding environment [5,13]. The pollution of surface water, groundwater, soil, and crops by geothermal activities has been widely reported [14][15][16][17]. In particular, the potentially hazardous elements (PHEs), including heavy metals from the geothermal springs, deserve attention because excessive exposure to them through water and food consumption could pose unacceptable human health risks [18][19][20][21][22][23][24].…”