Conceptual hydrodynamic model of the Pamukkale hydrothermal field, southwestern Turkey, based on hydrochemical and isotopic data

The results of study on the hydrochemical and isotope characteristics of shallow and deep waters at Pamukkale hydrothermal field Turkey are described in order to obtain a better understanding of the hydrological circulation. The field can be grouped into two groundwater sub-systems; cold water springs of Ca–HCO₃ type (10–12 °C), and CO₂-rich thermal waters of Ca–HCO₃–SO₄ type (25–58 °C). The occurrence of these water types is closely related to the morphology of the region, where intense tectonism formed horst and graben structures. Hence, two hydrogeological systems were defined: a deep geothermal system which is related to extensive and deep circulation of meteoric water in the regional flow system, and a shallow system which is related to local groundwater flow through sedimentary strata. The meteoric water falling at higher elevations percolates to the local groundwater system at a shallow level and flows to the deep geothermal system. During a deep convection cycle from a recharge to discharge area, the cold water attains heat from the asthenospheric intrusions, causing it to ascend. Variations of chemical and isotopic composition of thermal waters result from their mixing with cool groundwater in a shallow aquifer during their ascent to the surface.