The Role of Magnetic Properties of Rocks in Determining the Geothermal Potential in the Western Anatolia Region

The tectonic evolution of the Aegean Region can be divided into two main geological phases in the Cenozoic era. The first phase began at the end of the Mesozoic and is characterized by a compressional regime resulting from the closure of the Tethys Ocean and the formation of the Alpine system. This period was dominated by subduction tectonics, which shaped the geological evolution of the region. During this time, the formation of rift valleys, which are the most prominent structural elements of the Aegean today, was triggered. These rift valleys, typically bounded by faults on both sides, developed asymmetrically. They are the most dominant geological and morphological feature of Western Anatolia. The rift valleys, which are mostly bounded by normal faults, are seismically active. These rift valleys can be listed from north to south as follows: Edremit Gulf, Bakırçay-Simav Rift, Gediz-Küçük Menderes Rift, Büyük Menderes, and Gökova Rift. The second phase is characterized by a regional North-South extensional period. During this time, the fault systems in the region became more pronounced under the influence of extension. This extensional regime is related to changes in the stress environment within the lithosphere.

The Menderes Massif, with its unique geological structure and evolution, is another important feature of the region. It is particularly notable for being cut by numerous late-stage rifts, resulting in a dynamic structural evolution. The majority of the massif contains high to medium enthalpy geothermal reservoirs, with temperatures ranging from 120°C to 240°C. These reservoirs generally lie within metamorphic rocks and are located in lithologically diverse units. This study will focus on magnetism studies of geothermal wells in Western Anatolia, with samples taken from different depths and temperatures. The aim is to investigate the magnetic characteristics of the geothermal wells under pressure and temperature conditions. The methods applied will include the following: Magnetic susceptibility study (frequency-dependent susceptibility), Thermal magnetic susceptibility study, Hysteresis measurement, Isothermal remanent magnetization (IRM), Saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (SIRM). The result really Show the transformation of magnetic minerals in geothermal wells which have undergone different pressure and temperature conditions. Additionally, paleomagnetic measurements will be carried out to determine the movement and evolution of rocks over geological time.