Evolving Well Integrity in Enhanced Geothermal Systems
The Silent Threat: Wellbore Stability and Corrosion in EGS Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) hold immense promise for renewable energy production. By harnessing the heat trapped deep within Earth's crust, they offer a consistent, sustainable source of power. However, like any geothermal project, EGS faces unique challenges, with wellbore stability and corrosion standing as significant threats to long-term operation and success. Understanding the Challenges: EGS relies on creating artificial fractures in hot, dry rock formations to circulate water and generate electricity. This process involves injecting high-pressure fluids into the subsurface, which can exert immense stress on the surrounding rock. The combination of fluid pressure and the inherent instability of fractured rock presents a constant risk of wellbore collapse or leakage. Furthermore,...