3 ms·
>I also do not understand why "Closed-loop" terminology is implying that this system is something new or distinct as all geothermal systems to my knowledge use
by blacksqr 5y ago
>I also do not understand why "Closed-loop" terminology is implying that this system is something new or distinct as all geothermal systems to my knowledge use closed loop systems to prevent environmental damage
Large-scale geothermal systems attempted up to now have generally been of the the type where you frack deep underground rock, then dig two wells into the fracked rock field, pump cool water into one and let it heat as it percolates through, then pump it back out the other.
This as you mention carries the potential for environmental damage, but has been seen as necessary to overcome the problem of rock's slow thermal recharge rate.
The linked paper suggests the rock thermal recharge problem can be overcome by digging not one but several horizontal pipes connecting the two deep vertical wells.
- mojomark 5y agoI also was not aware of that open loop scheme. Seems like a simple and lower cost, albeit inefficient, solution. Thanks for sharing.
- sigmaprimus 5y agoI was not aware they used such methods, I assumed they would use a glycol type solution to achieve better heat transfer and enable the transfer of heated media within a closed loop system of piping or well jackets. I find it shocking that they have been employing the tactics You described above, especially under the guise of a renewable alternative energy that is good for the environment.