Researchers Shin Irgens Banshoya, Ingca Berre, and Eirik Keilegavlen from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology have published a study in the journal Geothermics that explores the potential of co-producing geothermal energy and lithium, and how fracture networks in geothermal reservoirs can impact this process.
The study focuses on the economic viability of extracting lithium from geothermal brine, which is influenced by how lithium concentration changes during brine production. Initially, production targets lithium in the brine closest to the production well. However, lithium recharge, through rock dissolution and inflow from other reservoir parts, depends on the reservoir’s geology.
The researchers used a high-resolution numerical simulation tool to study how fractures in the reservoir affect the flow of lithium-carrying brine. Their simulations revealed that the presence of fractures significantly impacts lithium production more than energy production. This is due to heat conduction and the lack of mineral recharge from the rock. The study highlights the importance of understanding fracture characterization and its impact on production for successful lithium extraction in geothermal operations.
For the energy industry, this research underscores the potential of geothermal operations to diversify into lithium production, enhancing economic prospects. However, it also emphasizes the need for detailed geologic understanding, particularly of fracture networks, to optimize lithium extraction processes. This could guide future geothermal project planning and development strategies, making them more economically viable and sustainable.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.