An integrated approach to analyze the formation models of geothermal resources in complicated areas with low exploration: A case study of the Midu County in Yunnan Province, China

As an important component of the exploration and evaluation of geothermal resources, the formation model has unique formation and distribution rule in different regions. Reliable geological models need to be established to help in temperature prediction, favorable area selection, and drilling design studies prior to the development of geothermal resources. This paper provides an integrated approach for analyzing the formation models of geothermal resources by combining geological studies and the wide-field electromagnetic method. The resistivity profile is converted into a geologic profile by analyzing the fault distribution, stratigraphic lithology, magmatic rock development, and signal changes of the profile. Comprehensively analyzing the geological elements including the heat sources, water sources, thermal reservoirs, transport conditions, cap rock, and preservation conditions, we investigate the matching relationship of the geological elements on the geologic profile and establish a formation model of the geothermal resources. This approach avoids the respective limitations of geological and geophysical methods, and the formation model established by this approach is comprehensive, intuitive, and accurate and can provide support for the development of geothermal resources.