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Geothermal Frontier – Beta

This is an integrated knowledge and data sharing platform that aggregates global datasets on institutional research capacity and country-level geothermal profiles. It is designed to support cross-sector collaboration and the advancement of next-generation geothermal technologies. The platform facilitates access to structured data, technical insights, and networked expertise to accelerate the development of higher-enthalpy resources and drive cost-competitive deployment at scale.

The University of Texas at Austin

RAPID (Rig Automation and Performance Improvement in Drilling)

Institution Type: Academia

Institution Website

Austin, USA

Contact

Eric van Oort
Professor
vanoort@austin.utexas.edu

Areas of Expertise

  • Resource Characterization & Modeling
  • Drilling & Well Design
  • Monitoring & Instrumentation
  • Reservoir Creation & Management
  • Engineering & Power Generation

Resource Characterization & Modeling

This area focuses on identifying, assessing, and modeling geothermal resources to understand their size, temperature, and viability. It supports better decision-making by improving predictions of subsurface conditions and resource potential.

  • Coupled Process Modeling Active
  • Crustal Stress, Geomechanics/Rock Mechanics Active
  • Water/Rock Geochemistry Planned
  • High-Performance Computing (HPC) for Coupled or Multiphysics Simulations Active
  • Environmental Risk Assessment Active
Advanced thermo-hydraulic modeling (RAPID Hydraulics)
Temperature Note Unlimited
Pressure Note Unlimited
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
High-Temperatura and High-Pressure fluids & cementing laboratory
Max Temperature (°C) 350
Max Pressure (MPa) 140
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
High-temperature and high-pressure rock mechanics laboratory
Max Temperature (°C) 600
Max Pressure (MPa) 140
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Specialized programs for geothermal well repurposing evaluation and comprehensive drilling optimization (including drillstring dynamics, bit forensics, and stuck pipe prevention.
Temperature Note Unlimited
Pressure Note Unlimited
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

Drilling & Well Design

This area covers technologies and expertise needed to safely and efficiently access geothermal resources at depth. It includes innovations in drilling methods, materials, and well design and construction to reduce costs and effectively reach higher-enthalpy systems in more geologic regions.

  • Conventional Rotary Drilling Active
  • Hybrid Systems Planned
  • Well Completion (Cements, Liners, Flow Control) Active
  • Casing Materials (Thermal Stresses, Corrosion, Abrasion) Active
  • Advanced Materials for Drilling & Well Integrity Active
Advanced thermo-hydraulic modeling (RAPID Hydraulics)
Temperature Note Unlimited
Pressure Note Unlimited
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Various software programs related to drilling optimization (drillstring dynamics, MPD, bit forensics, etc.)
Temperature Note Unlimited
Pressure Note Unlimited
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

Monitoring & Instrumentation

This area enables real-time measurement and analysis of geothermal systems through advanced sensors and data tools. It supports performance optimization, risk reduction, and improved understanding of subsurface behavior over time.

  • Downhole Sensors Active
  • Fiber Optic Sensing Systems (DTS, DAS, DSS) Active
  • Real-Time Telemetry & Data Acquisition Systems Active
  • Borehole Imaging Technologies Active
DAS/DTS technology for monitoring wellbore integrity and zonal isolation
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
Novel rig sensors for real-time monitoring of rock fragments (cuttings/cavings), condition-based monitoring of critical equipment (mud pumps, top drives, rotating heads), and automated bit analysis and forensics.
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

Reservoir Creation & Management

This area focuses on developing and sustaining productive geothermal systems, including enhanced and closed-loop systems. It involves techniques to develop the geothermal reservoir, manage the system, and optimize fluid flow and heat extraction over the project’s life.

  • Closed-Loop Systems Active
  • EGS (Hydraulic Stimulation, Zonal Isolation, High-Temp Proppants) Active
  • Thermal Stimulation or Heat Management Active
Advanced thermo-hydraulics modeling (RAPID Hydraulics)
Temperature Note Unlimited
Pressure Note Unlimited
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
High-temperature and high-pressure fluids & cementing laboratory
Max Temperature (°C) 350
Max Pressure (MPa) 140
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes
High-temperature and high-pressure rock mechanics laboratory
Max Temperature (°C) 600
Max Pressure (MPa) 140
Ability to Adjust T & P Simultaneously Yes

Engineering & Power Generation

This area addresses the conversion of geothermal heat into usable energy through plant design and system integration. It includes advancements in power cycles, efficiency improvements, and technologies for reliable, cost-competitive electricity generation.

  • Surface Engineering (Piping, Turbines, Power Plant Components) Planned
  • Power Production (Grid Connection/Integration) Planned
  • Heat Exchange & Thermal Management Technologies Planned
  • Integration with Hydrogen or Thermal Energy Storage Systems Planned
  • Alternative Working Fluids Planned

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