Thermal Modelling of Magmatic Geothermal Systems: the Role of Deep-Seated Heat Sources

oWe present the results achieved in the framework of different research projects, i.e. the Geothermal Atlas of Southern Italy, the Image, the Descramble and the Gemex Projects, mainly focussing on the thermal aspects of four geothermal fields developed in magmatic setting. We applied an integrated method in order to set-up numerical models able to simulate the conductive-convective thermal structure of the Ischia Island (southern Italy), Long Valley Caldera (eastern California), Acoculco caldera complex (eastern Mexico) and Larderello-Travale (central Italy) geothermal systems. We propose a numerical approach implemented in a Finite Element environment capable to evaluate the contribution of the main variables that characterize the magmatic heat source and the geothermal reservoir. The final 3D thermal models were achieved via the optimization of the available temperature measurements in deep boreholes tacking into account the thermal effects of the interplay between the free convection and the topographically driven groundwater flow, the reservoir permeability and the thermal load released by the parametrized heat source. Our results contribute to better understand the relationship of magmatism to geothermal resources in continental settings.