Maximizing Geothermal Power Production by Controlling Scale and Corrosion in Geothermal Systems

Abstract

Corrosion and scale formation in various parts of geothermal systems increase the cost and limit power production. Corrosion can be induced by hot brine that may contain sulfide, carbon dioxide or addition of acid to inhibit silica precipitation. Scale formation due to calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, calcium fluoride, silica/silicates, iron oxides, and sulfides of antimony or arsenic, often limits brine flow and decreases heat transfer, requiring costly cleaning operations and reducing power generation. This paper highlights various challenges and outlines chemical solutions to deal with the challenges, based on laboratory and field experiences. Inhibition of scales such as silica and stibnite that are formed at low temperature can enable the capturing of more energy by using additional flashes and binary systems.