GEOCHEMICAL, MINERALOGICAL, AND PETROPHYSICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF THE POTSDAM-PRECAMBRIAN BASEMENT UNCONFORMITY INTERSECTED BY THE CUBO GEOTHERMAL EXPLORATION BOREHOLE
The Cornell University Borehole Observatory supports the university's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035. This study presents a methodology for subsurface characterization using data from the ESH-1 borehole, integrating petrophysical, geochemical, petrological, and quantitative mineralogy data. A statistical and machine learning approach classifies lithotypes in the Precambrian and Cambrian Units. The study focuses on the depths between 9330 ft and 9575 ft. It identifies the upper sedimentary sequence as part of the Potsdam Group and characterizes the variable basement, noting metamorphic processes and possible hydrothermal alteration. Cordierite presence suggests medium to high-grade metastable metamorphism. Mineral assemblages and textures might influence factors such as permeability and seismicity. The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating minerals into geothermal development considerations. Future explorations should include mud logging, coring, manual sample description, detailed petrology, and collaborative data integration. This approach reduces uncertainty about rock nature, enabling informed geothermal development decisions.