Geopressured Geothermal Resource in Texas and Louisiana -- Geological Constraints

Abstract

Geopressured geothermal aquifers of the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast must comprise thick, extensive sandstone units with high temperature, high porosity and permeability, and low salinity. Geological studies have demonstrated that sandstone decrease in abundance and thickness with depth; however, exceptions do occur and some are now being drilled and tested. Porosity and permeability also decrease with depth, but variations in composition, burial history, and digenesis result in variations in preserved porosity. Salinity within the geopressured zone is highly variable and probably related to aquifer porosity and permeability, thickness, and lateral extent and to the nature of the bounding growth faults. Locating ideal aquifers for testing the geopressured geothermal resource requires a thorough knowledge of the regional geology in order to indent prospects which meet the maximum number of requirements. It is doubtful that any prospect will meet all requirement of the ideal model.