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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Geochemical research for high-temperature aquifer thermal energy storage

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6415752
The goal of these investigations is to develop the capability to predict and thereby avoid the geochemical problems that have plagued most aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) systems. The experimental work focuses on the DOE-funded Field Test Facility (FTF) at St. Paul, Minnesota. Samples from the storage aquifer (Galesville Sandstone) are being used in closed-system (hydrothermal) laboratory experiments at 60/degree/, 90/degree/, and 120/degree/C. These results are being used to improve the reliability of speciation and solubility calculations made with the MINTEQ geochemical model (GCM) in high-temperature ATES systems. A ''reaction'' model is being constructed of minerals important in regulating those dissolved constituents that form scale and cause clogging. A mixing model is being developed to permit calculation of the extent of mixing of the thermally treated water with native ground water to facilitate interpreting the composition of the withdrawn water. The GCM improvements, development of a generic mixing model, determination of a site-specific reaction model, and reconciliation of laboratory and St. Paul FTF data are designed to permit assessment of potential geochemical problems at future ATES sites as well as to reduce capital investment and the start-up and operating costs. 8 refs., 4 figs.
Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
6415752
Report Number(s):
PNL-SA-16706; CONF-890351-3; ON: DE89009154
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English