Guarani aquifer system (GAS)

Abstract

Among the geothermal energy direct-uses categories, bathing and tourism applications (balneotherapy, health, well-being, recreation, and swimming pool) correspond to almost all installed capacity in Brazil; where the best quality resources with the highest thermal power range occur in the Guarani Aquifer System (GAS). In a comprehensive international project on the use and protection of this transboundary aquifer, it is recommended to evaluate the potential uses and characteristics of its geothermal resources. Through the hot/mineral springs are developed resorts, water parks, SPAs, bath centers, and wellness destinations, with recognized economic benefits and inducers of sustainability. Thus, this work compiles physicochemical data (temperature, TDS, pH, SO4 -2, HCO3 - , Cl- , F- , Na+, Ca+2, Mg+2, Si, B-3, Fe, Li+, Mn+2, Zn+2) from 85 hydrothermal wellsprings located in GAS (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay), where tourism activities related to balneology are observed. The values obtained are compared with minimum levels of beneficial bioactivities, literature referenced to balneotherapy. The results indicate potential biologically active components (BAC) present in most of the sites, fountains and thermal/mineral waters evaluated here, through baths to experiences of SPA, relaxation, skincare, well-being or thermal medicine, according to the forms and the continuity of the expositions. It is expected to contribute to regional tourism development and marketing, as well as the promotion of related biomedical research.