Local geological controls in nearby geothermal systemsinsights from radon concentrations

  1. A. Pertuz 1
  2. M.I. Benito 1
  3. M. García-Martín 2
  4. C. Ayala 3
  5. C. de Santiago 4
  6. C. Rey-Moral 4
  7. P. Suarez-Gonzalez 1
  8. I.E. Quijada 5
  9. L. Real-Malats 1
  10. F. Martín-González 2
  11. S. Campos-Soto 1
  1. 1 Universidad Complutense de Madrid
    info
    Universidad Complutense de Madrid

    Madrid, España

    ROR https://ror.org/02p0gd045

    Geographic location of the organization Universidad Complutense de Madrid
  2. 2 Universidad Rey Juan Carlo
  3. 3 Geosciences Barcelona (GEO3BCN-CSIC)
  4. 4 Instituto Geológico y Minero de España
    info
    Instituto Geológico y Minero de España

    Madrid, España

    ROR https://ror.org/04cadha73

    Geographic location of the organization Instituto Geológico y Minero de España
  5. 5 Universidad de Oviedo
    info
    Universidad de Oviedo

    Oviedo, España

    ROR https://ror.org/006gksa02

    Geographic location of the organization Universidad de Oviedo
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Journal:
Geotemas (Madrid)

ISSN: 1576-5172

Year of publication: 2025

Issue: 21

Pages: 55-58

Type: Article

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Abstract

This study investigates the geochemical differences between the geothermal springs of Arnedillo (La Rioja) and Fitero (Navarra), two nearby geothermal systems in the Cameros Basin, northern Spain, developed in Jurassic carbonate formations along the Northern Cameros Thrust, with similar temperatures (39.5-52.5°C). Through a compilation of geochemical datasets (years 1982-2020) and analysis of seismic activity records (years 1980-2025), we have identified that Arnedillo waters display extremely high radon concentrations (1491-1868 Bq/L), and its surrounding area shows persistent low-magnitude seismic events. In contrast, Fitero shows moderate radon values (40-74 Bq/L) and minimal seismic activity. This difference in radon concentrations likely results from an extended residence time of the waters of Arnedillo, linked to the greater thickness of the Jurassic formations, and potential permeable faults that might create pathways aiding radon transport from deeper sources. This work highlights that even in similar geological contexts, local stratigraphic and tectonic factors, such as a greater thickness of karstified carbonates and the presence of permeable faults, may notably influence radon concentrations, with implications for geothermal research.

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