Recent research published in Earth and Planetary Physics has shed new light on the 2017 Pohang earthquake, which was the largest seismic event linked to Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) development. The study, led by JiaWei Qian from the School of Carbon Neutrality Science and Engineering at Anhui University of Science and Technology, provides critical insights into the geological conditions that contributed to this significant earthquake.
The Pohang EGS project aimed to harness geothermal energy by injecting fluids into deep rock formations to create pathways for heat exchange. However, this process inadvertently triggered a magnitude 5.5 earthquake, raising concerns about the safety and viability of EGS technology. The new study utilized advanced seismic tomography techniques to analyze aftershock data from local monitoring stations, revealing important characteristics of the earthquake’s source region.
The findings indicate that the deep source area of the earthquake is characterized by low compressional wave velocity (Vp), high shear wave velocity (Vs), and low Vp/Vs ratios. According to Qian, “This pattern can be caused by overpressurized vapors due to high temperatures at these depths.” This suggests that the injected fluids may have migrated into an undiscovered fault, leading to the earthquake.
This research has significant commercial implications for the geothermal energy sector. As the demand for clean and renewable energy sources continues to grow, understanding the geological risks associated with EGS projects is crucial for developers and investors. The insights gained from this study can guide future EGS initiatives, potentially leading to safer and more effective geothermal energy extraction methods.
Moreover, the results could stimulate innovation in monitoring technologies and fault detection systems, providing new business opportunities for companies involved in geological assessment and seismic monitoring. As the industry seeks to mitigate risks while tapping into geothermal resources, the lessons learned from the Pohang incident can help shape more resilient and sustainable energy strategies.
In summary, the research led by JiaWei Qian not only enhances our understanding of the geological processes involved in the Pohang earthquake but also underscores the importance of risk management in the burgeoning geothermal energy sector. As the world pivots towards cleaner energy solutions, findings like these will be vital in ensuring that geothermal projects can proceed safely and effectively.
