3D Seismic Exploration for Deep Geothermal Reservoirs in the Crystalline Basement in Germany

A 100 sqkm seiscmic survey was acquired to search for faults in the crystalline basement of the Westerzgebirge (Saxony). The aim is to explore the crystalline basement for deep geothermal reservoirs over 5 km in depth . The subsurface is formed by large granitic intrusions which are partly covered by metaphorphc piles and the area is located in a main fault zone. The seismic image show a detailed structure of the granitic body and a complex fault system, which in this type was not predicted by the prelimenary study. The aim of the project, which is funded by the German Ministry of Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, is to adapt the seismic method for the exploration of deep geothermal reservoirs in the crystalline basement.