Petrophysical properties are key to populate local and/or regional numerical models and for interpretation of many geophysical exploration methods. Inquiries for rock property values that have been measured for a specific rock unit at a specific site might become a very time-consuming challenge given that such data are spread across diverse compilations and that the number of publications on new measurements is continuously increasing and of heterogeneous quality. The applicability of laboratory data to specific locations or reservoir units for example might be questionable if information on the sample location, petrography, stratigraphy, measuring method and conditions are too sparse or even lacking. Within the scope of the EC funded project IMAGE (Integrated Methods for Advanced Geothermal Exploration, EU grant agreement No. 608553, Van Wees et al., 2015) an open-access database has been developed. This database aims at providing easily accessible, peer-reviewed information on physical rock properties relevant for geothermal exploration and reservoir characterization in one single compilation. Collected data include hydraulic, thermophysical and mechanical properties and, in addition, electrical resistivity and magnetic susceptibility. Each measured value is complemented by relevant meta-information such as the corresponding sample location, petrographic description, chronostratigraphic age and, most importantly, original citation. The original stratigraphic and petrographic descriptions are transferred to standardized catalogues following a hierarchical structure ensuring intercomparability for statistical analysis. In addition, information on the experimental setup (methods) and the measurement conditions are given for quality control. Thus, rock properties can directly be related to in-situ conditions to derive specific parameters relevant for modelling the subsurface or interpreting geophysical data. We describe the structure, content and status quo of the database and discuss its limitations and advantages in terms of applicability. The next step will be the setup of a publicly accessible web-based interface to allow its use by external users and scientists, also offering the opportunity to complement the database with additional measured rock properties. It is planned to continuously update the database and launch new releases at reasonable intervals.

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