Hydrogeochemistry and Hydrogeological Model of CO2-rich Springs on Buryatia Territory (Russia)

Abstract

The work presents the results of isotopic-geochemical and hydrodynamic studies of CO2-rich springs of the Tunka Valley, Buryatia. The waters are remarkably diverse in terms of cationic composition, although the dominant anion is hydrocarbonate. In general, the springs studied are characterized by high concentrations of microcomponents. To form these springs, the presence of active deep-seated faults is necessary. Such fractured zones serve as channels bringing gas to the upper horizons of groundwater. The 2D numerical model presented convincingly proves that the Arshan field’s waters are meteoric waters of long-term water circulation (up to 220,000 years).