Funding for geothermal project and innovative sensor development project

Wenzhuo Cao, André Niemeijer and Loes Buijze have been awarded this funding for their project Towards sustainable GEOthermal systems: Fundamentals of Injection-induced fRacture Slip (GeoFirst)

Unlocking potential of geothermal energy

Deep geothermal energy is a clean resource that is being exploited, but it has yet to achieve efficient uptake in the Netherlands. A deep geothermal energy system works by extracting heat from subsurface hot rocks, pumping hot water from one well and re-injecting cooled water into another well several kilometers away to balance the fluid extraction. The geothermal productivity and sustainability rely on fluid circulation through subsurface fracture networks - interconnected systems of fractures beneath the surface. Therefore, understanding how fracture behaviour affects the reservoir circulation, thermal longevity and seismic hazards is essential for optimising geothermal systems.

Together with Drs André Niemeijer and Loes Buijze, Wenzhuo Cao will carry out geomechanical, hydrological and seismological research on the fundamental physics of fluid injection-induced fracture and flow behaviour and permeability evolution in fractured rocks. This project aims to advance sustainable geothermal exploitation and improve seismic hazard management, helping to unlock the vast potential for geothermal deployment in the Netherlands. The User Committee of this project consists of TNO, KNMI, VITO, International Geothermal Association (IGA), and two deep geothermal fields.

Increasing public confidence

Deep geothermal resources are used for greenhouse heating in horticulture in the Netherlands, and for space heating and power generation in countries like Iceland. Currently deep geothermal operations from a fractured carbonate reservoir in the Netherlands have been suspended due to seismic hazards, with the possibility of resuming operations is under evaluation. This research will develop and distribute a sustainable operation strategy that enables long-term operational life of geothermal fields with reduced seismic risk, significantly contributing to assessing the resumption of deep geothermal operations in the Netherlands. This research will also raise public awareness about the responsive use of the subsurface in the energy transition, and increase public confidence in deep geothermal energy.

We will leverage natural fracture networks and field operational data to analyse seismic events at geothermal sites, and understand better what happens in the subsurface

Yogurt and wet baby diapers

Yogurt, ketchup, paint, shampoo, and wet baby diapers are all examples of soft matter - materials that are neither completely solid nor liquid. The development and continuous improvement of these products require extensive expertise, both in industry and science. One key property that influences the functionality of soft matter – such as its stability - is its electric charge. However, no reliable technique currently exists to measure this charge accurately. While several methods are available, each has its limitations. This lack of precise measurement techniques poses challenges for the further development and quality control of commercial products.

Connecting with industry

In the project An Electric Charge Sensor for Soft Matter, phyciscal chemist Ben Erné will develop a new type of sensor designed to quickly and accurately measure the charge of soft matter. He will collaborate with NIZO, a company in Ede focused on advancing food and health products, Nanoscolo in Geleen, which helps industrial clients improve products and processes, and Hypersoniq in Delft, a sensor development company. "The goal is to create a functional prototype of the sensor," says Erné. "NIZO and Nanoscolo will integrate prototypes directly into their daily operations, ensuring that the final product is perfectly aligned with industrial needs."

Concept

The idea for the sensor originated in part from Professor Albert Philipse, co-applicant of the project. Although now retired, he will help with the theoretical aspects of the work. In 2015, Philipse introduced the concept of a sensor that measures the charge of soft matter based on the Donnan effect - a phenomenon where ions are unevenly distributed across a membrane due to charged molecules being unable to pass through it. The research team will now bring this concept to life by developing a practical, working sensor.

"NIZO and Nanoscolo will integrate prototypes directly into their daily operations, ensuring that the final product is perfectly aligned with industrial needs"