Imaging a potential geothermal target using Mt Isa regional seismic reflection and potential field geophysics, Queensland, Australia

Abstract

A regional seismic survey in north Queensland, with acquisition parameters set for deep crustal imaging, shows a potential geothermal target beneath about 2 km of sediments. Beneath the sedimentary structure there appears to be an area of low seismic reflection signal from about 1 s to 4 s. Combined with the relatively low gravity signature over this location, this area of low seismic reflection signal could be interpreted as a large granite body, overlain by sediments. This body lies near an area of high crustal temperature and suggests a potential geothermal energy target.