臺灣地熱發展可回溯至1970年且於宜蘭清水地熱建造第一座3-MWe的地熱發電廠，這是一座少數建造於低度變質岩中的電廠。本研究於土場-清水地熱有系統性的採集屬於硬頁岩、板岩和變質砂岩的標本，並以X光繞射分析低度變質岩中黏土礦物組成。本研究發現於低度變質岩地熱徵兆區的蝕變礦物為黏土礦物混層、澎潤石。此研究成果能夠提供於低度變質岩區指標性的蝕變礦物。
The exploration of geothermal resource in Taiwan can be traced back to the 1970s. A 3-MWe geothermal energy power plant was installed in Chingshui Geothermal Field, Ilan of Taiwan in 1981. The geothermal energy power plant of Chingshui Geothermal Field is one of few geothermal fields of low grade metamorphic rock in the world. The majority of bedrocks are argillites, slate and meta-sandstone. We have systematically analyzed samples taken in Tuchang-Chingshui Geothermal field, of the region to understand the spatial distribution of mineral assemblages under the influence of alterations by using XRD. The recognition of alteration mineral zoning can help identify hydrothermal fluid channel ways. We have found the existence of smectite and mix-layer of clay minerals, a typical product of hydrothermal alteration. It could further provide the linkage between mineral assemblages with geothermal activities and could be served as indicators, particularly in low grade metamorphic regions.
