Maximazing Heat Extraction and Minimazing Water Losses in Hydrothermal Systems: A Numerical Investigation

Abstract

In the current numerical study we demonstrate the use of diverters, such as inorganic silica gel, in enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) to 1) enhance heat extraction, 2) minimizing fluid exchanger losses to the surrounding formation and 3) remediating short circuits, i.e. fast pathways, in a fracture or fracture networks. The current work is been extended to conventional porous geothermal systems (CGS). Several simulations illustrating pre- and post- deployment of diverters in EGSs and CGSs to remediate in-situ short comings and to extend the longevity of the system will be presented. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.