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Origin and Prospects of Practical Use of Utaat-Minchuur Hot Vapor Anomaly

  • REGIONAL PROBLEMS OF ENVIROMENTAL STUDIES AND NATURAL RESOURCES USE
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Abstract

This paper discusses the results of a study of a rare natural phenomenon—the Utaat-Minchuur hot vapor anomaly located in the east of Mongolia. The first information about it appeared several centuries ago, but until now this phenomenon has not received due attention, and the question of its origin remains controversial. According to the authors, two main hypotheses are most likely. The first involves an underground coal fire. This is supported by the widespread occurrence of vapor-bearing coal deposits in the area and the constant formation of fresh depressions of ground. The second hypothesis suggests the presence of an endogenous heat source. This can be confirmed by the presence in the released gas of significant amounts of ammonia and carbon dioxide, which are characteristic of volcanic processes. In addition, effusive rocks are widespread in the vicinity of the vapor anomaly. At a distance of 8 km from the vapor anomaly, the ratio of 3He/4He isotopes in water samples from a self-flowing well was 1 × 10–6, which exceeds the similar ratio in many thermal springs of Mongolia. Based on the results of drilling operations, the presence of clays with a high content of organic matter, which were heated to a temperature of more than 60°C, was revealed in the upper part of the rock formation section. To clarify the conditions for the formation of a single heat source, it is planned to conduct geophysical research and drill deep exploration wells. Thanks to the combination of balneological factors (high vapor temperature and the presence of ammonia and a number of microelements), Utaat-Minchuur is a very promising object for the development of sanatorium and resort construction. Here, patients with diseases of the musculoskeletal system, peripheral nervous system, kidneys, etc., will be able to receive treatment. The experience of balneological use of natural vapor is known in a number of resorts around the world, such as Yangantau (Russia, Republic of Bashkortostan), Obygarm (Tajikistan), and Lorderello (Italy).

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Funding

This work was supported by ongoing institutional funding. No additional grants to carry out or direct this particular research were obtained.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of the Earth’s Crust, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 664033, Irkutsk, Russia

    A. I. Orgilianov, P. S. Badminov, I. G. Kryukova & O. P. Smekalin

  2. Mongol Us Corporation, 210351, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

    D. Surmaajav

  3. Institute of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, 210351, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

    D. Oyuntsetseg

Authors
  1. A. I. Orgilianov
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  2. P. S. Badminov
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  3. I. G. Kryukova
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  4. O. P. Smekalin
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  5. D. Surmaajav
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  6. D. Oyuntsetseg
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Corresponding authors

Correspondence to A. I. Orgilianov, P. S. Badminov, I. G. Kryukova, O. P. Smekalin, D. Surmaajav or D. Oyuntsetseg.

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Translated by L. A. Solovyova

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Orgilianov, A.I., Badminov, P.S., Kryukova, I.G. et al. Origin and Prospects of Practical Use of Utaat-Minchuur Hot Vapor Anomaly. Geogr. Nat. Resour. 44 (Suppl 1), S93–S98 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1134/S1875372823050116

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1134/S1875372823050116

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