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Preliminary study on geology, mineral potential and characteristics of hot springs from Dallol area, Afar rift, northeastern Ethiopia: Implications for natural resource exploration
Abstract
in the Dallol area in addition to the already known sulfur and salt deposits. In surrounding areas of mount Dallol, hot springs of varying temperature and extent are being erupted forming semicircular to circular ponds. In this study, two types of hot springs, light-yellowish and yellowish brines are recognized which are contaminated with mud. Field observations show that both brines have indications for the presence of oil as sensed by greasy feelings. To know the general compositions of the hot springs and test the presence of liquid hydrocarbons, 8 water samples were collected and analyzed for major element contents, sulfide, sulfate and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) concentrations. The preliminary results show that TOC values are moderately low (94 to 902 ppm). Sulfate (19 to 60 ppm) and sulfide (27 to 111 ppm) concentrations are low except for one sample with higher concentrations for both complexes. Their low sulfide and sulfate content suggest that these compounds are converted into sulfur/sulfide by bacterial
reduction of magmatic and/or sea water SO2 or sulfate. Therefore, the Dallol hot springs are interpreted to be derived from heated groundwater mixed with sulfides/sulfates of magmatic and/or sea water origin. Although low, the up to 902 ppm TOC concentrations in the hydrothermal fluids could suggest the presence of hydrocarbon containing rocks at depth and/or fluid mixing with laterally and/or vertically migrating hydrocarbon fluids. Generally, the Dallol area contains huge metallic and non metallic resources, which warrant detailed exploration and further scientific study.
