Publication Name: Energy, Economics and Environment - Gippsland Basin Symposium (June 1992)
Authors: J.P. Cull, G.R. Beardsmore
Date Published: June 1992
Number of Pages: 10
Abstract:
Geothermal gradients in the Gippsland Basin commonly exceed 35°C/km. Consequently models of thermal maturation may indicate exploration targets with an anomalous age/depth distribution. However, regional geothermal models are constrained primarily by observations of surface heat flow. High geothermal gradients may simply reflect the presence of low conductivity coal beds within the basin. Heat flow data are not readily available for the Gippsland Basin. Normally special purpose drill holes are required to provide direct determinations of surface heat flow. These provide core samples for thermal conductivity and allow measurements of a stable geothermalgradient at least one year after drilling. Different indirect procedures are now required to provide estimates for the Gippsland Basin.