Geochemical and process engineering challenges for geothermal power generation

Abstract

Handling of the geothermal fluid, which is typically a complex mixture of salt solution and dissolved gases, is one of the main challenges for designing and operating reliable and efficient geothermal power plants. In the geothermal fluid loop, undesired mineral precipitation and fluid-material interactions must be prevented and the design and dimensioning of all components must be adapted according to the characteristics of the geothermal fluid. This paper outlines geochemical and process engineering aspects as well as research activities in these fields and introduces the Groß Schönebeck site, which is a central site for geothermal research. © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.