Evaluation of geothermal gradient and heat flow distribution in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Geothermal and heat flow distribution study was carried out at eighteen locations in Delta State, Nigeria using data obtained from temperature logging and thermal conductivity measurements. The result from the study showed that the geothermal gradients of the area ranged between 25.47 and 31.16 °C/km while the mean geothermal gradient was obtained as 28.64 °C/km. This finding is an indication that the geothermal gradient of the area lies within the range interval commonly encountered in tectonically inactive regions. Results also showed that the heat flow values for the area ranged between 38.93 and 89.59 mWm^-2 with a mean value of 62.70 mWm^-2. This result is an indication of an enormous energy potential which can be utilized for many purposes including electricity generation. The result further revealed that the heat flow and geothermal gradient of the study area decreases southward toward the ocean. This is an indication that fluid migration path is to the south of the study area.