Abstract:
This research aimed to assess the geothermal potential of the Borno Basin in north-east Nigeria using aeromagnetic and aeroradiometric data. The study performed regional/residual separation on the total magnetic intensity map through polynomial fitting, resulting in a residual map divided into nine spectral blocks. The log of spectral energies was plotted against frequency to determine centroid depth and depth to the top boundary. These values were used to estimate the Curie point depths, which were further employed in computing the geothermal heat flow of the study area.
The results indicate that the Curie point depth in the region ranges from 9.74 km to 21.68 km, with an average value of 15.71 km. The geothermal gradient varies between 26.75 oC/km and 59.55 oC/km, leading to heat flow values ranging from 71.09 mW/m2 to 150.07 mW/m2. Notably, lower heat flow values of 65 mW/m2 to 90 mW/m2 are observed in the Northeastern and Northwestern parts (Awiam and Bajoga), while higher values of 100 mW/m2 to 150 mW/m2 are found in most of the south-central part (Dukku and Bajoga). In summary, the geothermal heat flow varies between 67.41 mWm-2 and 150.07 mWm-2.
Furthermore, the analysis of the aeroradiometric data covering the study area was conducted to estimate the radiogenic heat contribution. The study reveals that the radioactive heat production values range from 1.25 µW/m2 to 2.03 µW/m2, with an average of 1.43 µW/m2.
Based on the estimated heat flow values of 80 mW/m2 to 100 mW/m2 around Awiam, Dukku (northwestern), and Nafada and Bajoga (northeastern and southeastern) regions of the study area, the region appears to be favorable for geothermal exploration. These findings provide valuable insights for future geothermal energy development and exploration initiatives in the Borno Basin.
Exploring Geothermal Potential in Selected Areas of the Borno Basin, Northeast Nigeria, through Aeromagnetic and Aeroradiometric Data Assessment. GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
