BRIN examines hydrogeochemistry for mineral exploration and geological mitigation
The Geological Resources Research Centre of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is examining the utilisation of hydrogeochemistry for mineral exploration and geological mitigation in Indonesia. Hydrogeochemistry is a geochemical approach used to determine the origin, character, or quality of water and aquatic resource systems, as well as their utilisation.
Iwan Setiawan, Head of the BRIN Geological Resources Research Centre, stated during an online discussion in Jakarta on Wednesday that hydrogeochemical research for sustainable natural resources has the potential to map water quality and layers from the surface to underground aquifers. Furthermore, hydrogeochemical research can serve as a form of mitigation and monitoring for ecosystem viability and the prevention of declining environmental health, such as by understanding the origin of elements and water within aquatic ecosystems.
Iwan added that this research can also be utilised to accelerate the use of geothermal energy by understanding the characteristics of geothermal fluid systems, which have the potential for electricity generation or direct geothermal use. He explained that the application of radon in earth science research is also showing significant development.
According to Iwan, radon, as a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can be used as an indicator in various geological studies, hydrogeology, disaster mitigation, and natural resource exploration. Research regarding radon applications has the potential for geothermal exploration, particularly by utilising high radon gas concentration anomalies to map geological structures or fracture systems related to heat sources in volcanic and non-volcanic geothermal systems.
Iwan added that research is also being conducted as a form of geological disaster mitigation by utilising high radon gas anomalies in active fault zones related to tectonic or volcanic earthquake activity. He expressed hope for increased research capacity and collaboration to develop integrated, technology-based geochemical monitoring and instrumentation. Furthermore, strategic steps for geological hazard mitigation—utilising radon gas detection technology and real-time groundwater monitoring—could serve as a guide for decision-making or regional development policies, using geochemical research results as a database for sustainable spatial planning and environmental protection.