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Researchers propose sequestration of CO2 in wells dug for geothermal energy

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy basically refers to energy drawn from the hot Earth’s crust and is definitely an important renewable energy source. Scientists are constantly engaged in contriving technological developments to facilitate proper and regular use of this energy source. Most of the geothermal power plants have setups that involve drilling geothermal wells deep into the Earth’s interior, into which cold water is poured. This water goes down to the hot porous rocks and is then flushed out as natural hot water that turns to steam when it reaches the Earth’s surface. This steam is tapped and utilized for turning turbines that in turn generate electric power.

Carbon sequestration on the other hand refers to tapping carbon dioxide and storing it in reservoirs. This is generally done to prevent atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases or to store carbon dioxide emitted from flue gases in power plants. Now these sequestration schemes involve pumping carbon dioxide from the surface to the interiors of the Earth’s crust. Earth Science researchers at the University of Minnesota have proposed a new theory. According to them if compressed carbon dioxide replaces water in conventional geothermal rigs, the results could be interesting and favorable. Termed as CPG or CO2-plume geothermal, the method could prove to be a two-fold solution. Carbon dioxide has the ability to penetrate porous rocks better than water and most importantly unlike water CO2 does not readily dissolve minerals, which it comes in contact with. In fact CPG will be more effective in areas where the standard water based geothermal plants may not work. And of course the benefit of Carbon sequestration is there.

Researchers are just toying with the idea theoretically and have applied for DOE funding to begin practical experimentation. If successful the new technology will herald a new era in generating power from geothermal resources.

Via: Popsci

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