3D Gravity and magnetic inversion modelling for geothermal assessment and temperature modelling in the central eastern desert and Red Sea, Egypt

Abstract

The Central Eastern Desert and Red Sea region have emerged as a significant area of interest for geothermal energy exploration, owing to their unique geological characteristics and active tectonic activity. This research aims to enhance our understanding of the region's geothermal potential through a comprehensive analysis of gravity and magnetic data. By utilizing a 3D gravity inversion model, a detailed examination of subsurface structures and density variations was conducted. Similarly, a 3D magnetic inversion model was employed to investigate subsurface magnetic properties. Integration result from the Pygimli library ensured robustness and accuracy in the inversion results. Furthermore, a temperature model was developed using the WINTERC-G model and inversion techniques, shedding light on the thermal structure and potential anomalies in the study area. The analysis of the Bouguer gravity map, 3D gravity inversion model, and magnetic data inversion yielded significant findings. The Red Sea exhibited higher gravity values compared to the onshore Eastern Desert, attributed to the presence of a thinner and denser oceanic crust as opposed to the less dense continental crust in the Eastern Desert. The 3D gravity inversion model revealed distinct variations in density, particularly high-density zones near the surface of the Red Sea, indicating underlying geological structures and processes. Conversely, density gradually decreased with depth along the onshore line, potentially influenced by a higher concentration of crustal fractures. The magnetic data inversion technique provided additional insights, highlighting areas with demagnetized materials, indicative of elevated temperatures. These findings were consistent with the correlation between high-density areas and low magnetic susceptibility values, reinforcing the proposition of increased heat transfer from the Red Sea. Comparative analysis of temperature profiles further confirmed the presence of elevated temperatures in promising zones, emphasizing the geothermal potential associated with heat transfer from the Red Sea.This research contributes to the understanding of the geothermal resources in the Central Eastern Desert and Red Sea region. The results from gravity and magnetic data inversions, combined with temperature profiles, provide valuable information for future geothermal exploration and utilization efforts. The findings underscore the importance of geothermal energy in achieving sustainability and contribute to the global discourse on renewable energy sources.