Volcanology and geothermal energy

Book · Wed Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1992

OSTI ID:5419665

Wohletz, K; Heiken, G

The aim of this book is to demonstrate how volcanological concepts can be applied to the evaluation and exploration of geothermal energy resources. In regard to the geothermal content of the book, some of the information comes from the first-hand experience gained during the authors' exploration work in Middle America and with the Los Alamos Hot Dry Rock program. Other cases discussed come from classic geothermal systems in many regions and settings. The book begins with a summary of recent practical advances in volcanology, and then moves on to describe the considerable importance of pyroclastic rocks as a took to evaluate geothermal systems, including an in-depth treatment of hydrovolcanism. Following chapters deal with surface manifestations of geothermal systems, and systems associated with calderas, silicic lava domes, and basaltic volcanoes. The last chapter is on geothermal systems in maturing composite volcanoes. The Appendices include a broad overview of field methods in volcanic regions, volcanic rock classifications and properties, thermodynamic properties of water vapor (steam tables), and the use of cuttings in geothermal well logs. A two-dimensional heat flow code used for estimating geothermal resources is also given. The book makes two significant contributions: first, in its treatment of eruption dynamics, focusing on quantitative and theoretical analysis of volcanic processes, and second, in its comprehensive treatment of the fundamentals of hydrovolcanism, including fuel-coolant interactions and hydrofracturing.

• OSTI ID: 5419665
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
150200 -- Geology & Hydrology of Geothermal Systems
150300 -- Geothermal Exploration & Exploration Technology
58 GEOSCIENCES
580000* -- Geosciences
EXPLORATION
GEOLOGY
GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS
LAVA
VOLCANISM
VOLCANOES