Long Lasting Deep Geothermal Energy Utilization

Utilizing high enthalpy geothermal fluid from the deep roots of hydrothermal systems is the frontier of geothermal utilization development. Higher temperature and lower specific volume at high pressure enable a significantly higher energy extraction rate from such a well which can lower the drilling cost of geothermal project substantially. The properties of fluid from this resource however requires materials and technology development for reliable utilization with acceptable thermodynamic efficiency. The LODE project will allow the consortium to work together to provide design solutions of a system that can endure the deep geothermal fluid and increase efficiency and longevity of surface equipment. Also, it will fill the most severe knowledge gap with regard to material performance and selection under the extreme conditions associated with this resource that will then be used to secure the integrity of the deep geothermal well and surface equipment. High temperature, high pressure mechanically resistant alloys at competitive cost under realistic conditions will be developed and first tested in the laboratory, and thereafter at site. The work will also take into account the interaction of geothermal fluids and formation of scaling from different geological environments with standard and newly developed specific alloys and materials as technical system components of the energy utilization cycle. Power cycles, including steam mitigation appropriate for efficient utilization of this resource will also be developed.