Numerical Modeling of Geothermal Applications

Abstract

Geothermics has an increasing importance to energy supplies worldwide. Thus, there is also an increasing need to numerically model different geothermal scenarios. Depending on the type of problem, it may be necessary to take density coupled processes into account. Further, the thermal dependence of material properties should be considered. Special problems occur in the case of fractured flow, which can be of high importance with respect to productivity. In general, the simultaneous modeling of heat and mass transport processes is necessary. Several programs which apply different numerical methods are available, but the need to model complex subsurface geometries reduces the number substantially. We will present modeling approaches with FEFLOW. These will include applications for deep geothermics (enhanced geothermal systems), the use of mine water for heating purposes, and the efficient numerical modeling of shallow ground heat exchanger arrays.