The joint project ConvEx aims to develop integrated exploration methods for spatial mapping of hydrothermal convection for deep geothermal development. In the sub-project ‘Electromagnetic exploration for geothermal exploration fields,’ exploration campaigns are being carried out using controlled source electromagnetics (CSEM) and magnetotellurics (MT) methods to detect contrasts in electrical conductivity at reservoir depth.
The economic viability of hydrothermal geoenergy projects depends primarily on the temperature and flow rate at the wellhead. Highly permeable and hydraulically active zones with high temperature gradients are ideal geothermal reservoirs. Electromagnetic methods can be used to identify volume elements with increased permeability, as the electrical conductivity of rocks depends significantly on the electrolytic conductivity of the fluids in the pore space and on its effective porosity.
As part of the joint project, the results of the EM methods are combined with other geophysical and petrophysical data as well as with measurements of the geothermal gradients. In addition, coupled thermal-hydraulic-mechanical numerical simulations are carried out.
Time Frame
- 2025 - 2028
Funding
- BMWE (Ministry of Economy and Energy)
Principal Investigator
Personnel
Cooperations
- GFZ Section 4.3
- GFZ Section 4.5
- TU Darmstadt, Institute for Applied Geosciences
- Vulcan Energie Ressourcen GmbH