Challenges in Geothermal Production Systems

Geothermal Energy has the potential to lower the dependency on fossil fuels in the heating sector.  However, there are still a number of challenges that are faced which include the formation of scaling and corrosion in hydrothermal systems. Due to changes in pressure and temperature and subsequent alteration of the pH, precipitates can occur already in the formation which may lead to pore plugging. Most importantly, the formation of scales in the well bore or inside surface facilities could damage pumps and heat exchangers.

In the current project, the behavior of geothermal fluids is investigated experimentally at relevant operating conditions of pressure, temperature, salt and gas content in order to simulate geothermal production conditions. Measurements are conducted in high pressure view cells to monitor the pH, turbidity and precipitation. Moreover, a high-pressure resistant Raman probe is applied to determine the composition and concentration of geothermal fluids in situ. The final objective is to be able to predict the conditions and eventually the locations at which a geothermal system is more likely to encounter scaling. Consequently, the geothermal system will be designed in a manner that would minimize the likelihood of salt precipitation rather than dealing with it during production. As a result, maintenance costs of a geothermal system are reduced leading to a better economical outcome for a geothermal project.

Contact

MSc. Mohammad Al-Eryani

Scientific Staff

Department:
Petroleum Production Systems

Email: Mohammed.al-eryani@tu-clausthal.de