PAULSSON
Advanced Optical Sensors
Acerca de
ENHANCED
GEOTHERMAL
SYSTEM
MONITORING
Paulsson provides surveying, monitoring and characterization of high temperature geothermal reservoirs at temperatures up to 600°F (300°C), and pressures up to 25,000 psi (172 MPa) using its proprietary optical vector seismic, acoustic and pressure sensors and proprietary 3D time-lapse processing and imaging.
SURVEYING
Surveying high temperature geothermal reservoirs typically involves a combination of geological, geophysical, and geochemical techniques to identify and characterize the subsurface structures and properties that control the location, size, and potential of geothermal resources. The process typically involves several steps:
SITE
SELECTION
The first step is to locate potential high-temperature geothermal resource areas using geological maps, surface geothermal features (like hot springs), and geophysical data.
GEOPHYSICAL
SURVEYS
Geophysical surveys are then conducted to identify and characterize subsurface structures and properties that may be associated with geothermal resources. This may include gravity, magnetic, seismic, and electrical resistivity surveys.
DRILLING
Once potential geothermal resources are identified, exploratory drilling is conducted to confirm the existence of a reservoir and to obtain data on reservoir properties, such as temperature, pressure, and fluid chemistry.
PRODUCTION
TESTING
RESERVOIR
MODELING
Based on the data collected from drilling and production testing, reservoir modeling is used to estimate the size and potential of the geothermal resource and to design an optimal production strategy.
After drilling, production testing is conducted to determine the potential flow rate of the geothermal reservoir and to evaluate the long-term sustainability of the resource.
Surveying high temperature geothermal reservoirs is a complex and interdisciplinary process that requires expertise in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and engineering. The goal is to identify and characterize geothermal resources that can be developed into a sustainable source of clean energy.
MONITORING
Monitoring high temperature geothermal reservoirs is a crucial part of managing and maintaining the sustainability of geothermal energy production. The process involves regularly collecting and analyzing data from various sources to ensure that the reservoir is operating within safe and sustainable parameters. The steps involved in monitoring high temperature geothermal reservoirs typically include:
CONTINUOUS
MONITORING
High temperature geothermal reservoirs are typically monitored continuously using a variety of sensors, including temperature, pressure, and flow meters. This allows operators to track changes in the reservoir over time and detect any potential issues early.
GEOCHEMICAL
MONITORING
Geochemical monitoring analyzes the chemical makeup of reservoir fluids, such as dissolved gases, minerals, and isotopes. This helps track changes in temperature, pressure, or fluid chemistry, providing insight into reservoir productivity and sustainability.
SEISMIC
MONITORING
Seismic monitoring involves recording and analyzing vibrations caused by earthquakes, human activity, or fluid movements within the reservoir. This helps identify potential seismic hazards, like induced earthquakes, and ensures safe reservoir operation.
MODELING
Reservoir modeling involves using mathematical models to simulate reservoir behavior and predict future changes. This can help operators optimize production strategies, predict potential problems, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the resource.
PERIODIC
WELL TESTING
Periodic well testing involves shutting down the well and measuring the pressure and temperature response. This can help evaluate the performance of the well and identify any potential issues that may require maintenance or repair.
Monitoring high temperature geothermal reservoirs requires a multi-disciplinary approach that includes expertise in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and engineering. The goal is to ensure that the geothermal resource is operating safely and sustainably while maximizing energy production.
CHARACTERIZATION
The characterization of high temperature geothermal reservoirs involves a comprehensive study of the physical, chemical, and geological properties of the subsurface reservoir to understand its structure, behavior, and potential for geothermal energy production. The process of characterizing high temperature geothermal reservoirs typically involves the following steps:
GELOGIC
CHARACTERIZATION
This step involves collecting and analyzing data on the geological structures and properties of the subsurface reservoir, such as rock types, structures, and stratigraphy. This can be done through geological mapping, geophysical surveys, and drilling.
HYDROLOGICAL
CHARACTERIZATION
The hydrological characterization involves studying the fluid behavior of the subsurface reservoir, including the flow rate, temperature, pressure, and chemistry of the fluids. This can be done through monitoring wells, geophysical surveys, and geochemical analysis.
RESERVOIR
MODELING
Reservoir modeling uses mathematical simulations to predict reservoir behavior under various conditions. It helps identify geothermal energy potential, estimate productivity, and optimize production strategies.
PRODUCTION
TESTING
Production testing involves drilling wells to measure fluid flow rate and temperature, estimating the reservoir's energy potential. It evaluates suitability for geothermal production and identifies maintenance needs.
SUSTAINABLE
ASSESSMENT
Sustainable assessment is the final step in characterizing high-temperature geothermal reservoirs. It evaluates environmental impacts and ensures responsible resource use by addressing induced seismicity, fluid management, and ecosystem effects.
The characterization of high temperature geothermal reservoirs is a complex process that requires a multi-disciplinary approach, including expertise in geology, geophysics, hydrology, and engineering. The goal is to understand the subsurface reservoir's structure and behavior to maximize the sustainable production of geothermal energy.
PAULSSON IN THE FIELD
California
2017
16 Level Micro Seismic in Coso Geothermal Field, CA
