Seismic imaging of the geothermal field at Krafla, Iceland using shear-wave splitting

Shear-wave splitting is emerging as a useful exploration method for geothermal reservoirs as it can detect the geometry of the fracture system, the intensity of cracking and possibly, changes in fluid pressure within the reservoir. The method is based on the analyses of polarizations and time delays of shear-waves that have been distorted by the anisotropy of the medium through which the seismic waves have propagated. Observations of shear-wave splitting within the Krafla–Leirhnúkur geothermal field, Iceland, using a 20-station 3-component portable seismic array have provided evidence for at least two major crack systems of microfractures, oriented approximately N–S and E–W. Located microearthquakes align roughly along the E–W direction of the geothermal field, with shallow focal depths mostly around the injection well, probably related to the ongoing injection. This unexpected direction is however consistent with results from a simultaneous MT (magnetotelluric) survey.