Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Friedemann Samrock, Alexander Grayver, Marie Luise Texas Dambly, Madeleine R. Mueller, Martin O. Saar
Summary: Volcano-hosted high-temperature geothermal reservoirs are valuable resources for green electricity generation. Electromagnetic imaging methods can provide detailed characterization of geothermal systems, helping to understand the flow patterns of hydrothermal fluids and locate suitable drilling sites.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Bekele Dejene Mulugeta, Yasuhiro Fujimitsu, Jun Nishijima, Hakim Saibi
Summary: The study analyzed the Aluto-Langano geothermal field using gravity data to define the geometry of the geothermal reservoir and subsurface geological structures. The results showed high Bouguer anomalies and geothermal activity in the area, with a 3-D gravity model revealing the presence of a high-density geological body and a geothermal reservoir.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Hakim Saibi, Mohamed Amrouche, Joseph Batir, Amir Gabr, Abdel-Rahman Fowler
Summary: There are two low-enthalpy geothermal systems along the eastern border of the United Arab Emirates, and the analysis of gravity and magnetic data reveals the connection between their subsurface structure and hot springs with geological contacts and fault zones.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Wubamlak Nigussie, Abera Alemu, Kevin Mickus, Derek Keir, Zelalem Demissie, Yoseph Muhabaw, Ameha A. Muluneh, Giacomo Corti, Esubalew Yehualaw
Summary: Since the Quaternary, magmatism and extension in the Main Ethiopian Rift (MER) have been concentrated in narrow magmatic segments with volcanic centers and caldera collapses, creating favorable conditions for geothermal resources. However, the relationship between the subsurface structure of volcanic systems and the distribution of shallow geothermal resources remains uncertain. Through gravity and magnetic studies, combined with geological evidence, it was found that shallow magmatic intrusions occur beneath the volcanic centers in the Tulu Moye Geothermal Prospect (TMGP). The intrusion beneath Tulu Moye is currently magmatically active and serves as the primary heat source for the geothermal system.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Philip Omollo, Jun Nishijima
Summary: This study used gravity data stations to generate a Bouguer anomaly map, edge detection filters, and 3D inversion to analyze the subsurface structure and faults in the Olkaria geothermal reservoir system. The analysis revealed the presence of complex sets of faults, new geological contact zones, and high-density and low-density anomalous bodies. The gravity analysis methods provided detailed insights into the density dynamics and characterization of the reservoir.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Nicola Piana Agostinetti, Alberto Villa, Gilberto Saccorotti
Summary: This study compares the performance of distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) and geophone observations in subsurface mapping and seismic monitoring activities, using PoroTomo experimental data. The results show that DAS and geophone recordings are consistent in terms of seismic P-wave propagation and characteristics at a local scale, but the interpretation of seismic wave propagation across multiple segments is unclear. DAS has potential for detailed mapping of shallow subsurface heterogeneities and automatic monitoring of microseismicity, but specific data preconditioning and processing techniques are necessary.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Vishal Sakhare, Abhay Kant, Upananda Low, Bishnu P. Biswal, Suman Paul, Durgam Hanmanthu
Summary: A geophysical investigation was conducted in the Manuguru geothermal field to characterize the geothermal system and locate the reservoir source. Gravity and magneto-telluric surveys revealed the presence of basement faults controlling the deep hot water flow. The study identified a distinguished low resistivity zone indicating deep geothermal storage.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Tiansheng Zhang, Chun Liu, Peter Bayer, Liwei Zhang, Xulong Gong, Kai Gu, Bin Shi
Summary: This study measured the shallow temperatures down to a depth of 100 m in 19 closed boreholes in Nanjing, China, for one year, aiming to understand the subsurface thermal regime and its influencing factors. The results showed that surface temperatures were most dynamic and influenced by air temperature, while temperatures remained stable at depths of 10-20 m. Geological and hydrological conditions played a primary role in affecting subsurface heat flux and loss, with urban land cover change and enhanced heat release from urbanization contributing to a subsurface urban heat island. The monitoring concept used in this study can provide continuous profiles of subsurface temperature and serve as a reference for city-wide geothermal monitoring in other urban areas.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Alexandros Daniilidis, Sanaz Saeid, Nima Gholizadeh Doonechaly
Summary: Geothermal energy as a renewable energy source is gaining momentum, and studies show that specific well configurations and spacing can lead to higher economic efficiency under uncertainty related to subsurface and operational parameters.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Jose P. Calderon, Luis A. Gallardo
Summary: Potential field data are widely used in geophysical exploration for various targets. This study developed a convolution-based conjugate gradient 3D inversion algorithm, which effectively compresses information and reduces redundant computations. The application of this algorithm to gravity and magnetic data in a geothermal prospect in Mexico successfully determined the distribution of volcanic infill and the interrelation of intrusive bodies in the area.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Noah D. Athens, Jef K. Caers
Summary: This study investigates the impact of data and model uncertainty on gravity interpretation in geothermal exploration, using a stochastic approach to analyze gravity data from Dixie Valley geothermal field. Sparse data sampling is shown to affect inversion results, with high data density areas showing more consistent results compared to low data density areas. Data uncertainty has a marked impact on depth-to-basement estimates and modeled fault locations, highlighting the importance of considering uncertainty in geothermal exploration modeling.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Zhicai Xiao, Shuai Wang, Shihua Qi, Jian Kuang, Min Zhang, Hailong Li
Summary: Previous geothermal explorations have revealed the dense distribution of granites and surrounding hot springs, as well as the high anomalous heating rates of geothermal fluids and geothermal gradients in shallow crust in Southeast China. However, the genesis of these geothermal anomalies has always been debated. This study aims to investigate the formation mechanism of geothermal anomalies through selecting a typical geothermal field and constructing a fine crustal thermostructure.
JOURNAL OF EARTH SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Faisal Alqahtani, Essam Aboud, Muhsan Ehsan, Zohaib Naseer, Murad Abdulfarraj, Mohamed F. Abdelwahed, Nabil El-Masry
Summary: This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of gravity, magnetic, and land surface temperature data to investigate the geothermal potential of the Lunayyir volcanic field in western Saudi Arabia. The gravity data reveal a series of gravity anomalies that indicate the presence of subsurface geologic structures similar to other geothermal areas. The magnetic data show a relatively low magnetic susceptibility, consistent with the presence of volcanic rocks and shallow heat sources. Furthermore, satellite data indicates higher land surface temperature in 2007, suggesting volcanic activities in the subsurface. These findings highlight the importance of combining different geophysical datasets for a better understanding of underground geology and geothermal systems.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Dmitry Duplyakin, Koenraad F. Beckers, Drew L. Siler, Michael J. Martin, Henry E. Johnston
Summary: This study combines reservoir modeling and machine learning to address the decreasing heat and power production rates in geothermal power plants. The results show that the approach can accurately predict energy production and has a fast computational speed.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Hannes Hemmerle, Grant Ferguson, Philipp Blum, Peter Bayer
Summary: Meeting the rising energy demands of cities is a global challenge. Recent research reveals the long-term increase of temperatures in the groundwater beneath Cologne, Germany and finds that the geothermal resources in urban areas are largely underused.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Hakim Saibi, Nacir Tit, Mohamed Abdel Zaher, Jean d'Amour Uwiduhaye, Mohamed Amrouche, Walid Farhi
Summary: The depth of the African continental crust is estimated using gravity measurements and calculations. A theoretical method is used to calculate the absolute gravity at three locations in Africa by exploring the use of gravitational potential. The results obtained are in agreement with previous studies, demonstrating the reliability of the computational method for further geoscience explorations.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ronald Nguele, Albert Brandt Mbouopda Poupi, Ghislain A. Mouthe Anombogo, Olalekan S. Alade, Hakim Saibi
Summary: This paper investigates the influence of asphaltene's structural parameters, including aromatic sheet diameter and aromaticity, on its solubility. The results show that aromatic sheet diameter increases with aromaticity and is inversely proportional to hydrogen bonding capability. In terms of dispersant polarity, 7C-7C interactions dominate and contribute to better asphaltene stability, while nonpolar precipitants exhibit the opposite trend. The study suggests the use of polar inhibitors to inhibit the aggregation of asphaltene with large aromatic sheet diameter.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Meixia Geng, Mohammed Y. Ali, James Derek Fairhead, Hakim Saibi
Summary: We used a modified centroid method based on fractal distribution of sources to determine the depth of the Curie isotherm in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The results show consistent spatial coverage of Curie depths and geothermal gradients with those derived from bottom hole temperatures in exploration wells. These findings have implications for hydrocarbon exploration and geothermal energy potential in the UAE.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Biruk Abera Cherkose, Salem Issa, Hakim Saibi, Khalid ElHaj
Summary: Ethiopia aims to increase its power generation capacity by diversifying its energy sources, with geothermal being an important alternative energy. Geospatial modeling and analysis were used to identify and assess potential geothermal sites in the Ayrobera geothermal field, located in the Afar Depression in NE Ethiopia. Suitable and highly suitable areas were found near faults and fumaroles, while less suitable and unsuitable areas were located far from surface manifestations and faults.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Ahmed Elmasry, Saad A. Mohallel, Ahmed Madani, Hakim Saibi, Mohamed Abdel Zaher, Tamer Nassar
Summary: The Abu Gharadig Basin in Egypt is a significant oil-producing basin, characterized by tectonic structures and a thick sedimentary sequence, making it ideal for geothermal energy research. The study analyzed groundwater samples from wells in the basin and found that the water has Na+ cations and Cl anions, originating from precipitation and runoff. The application of cation geothermometers revealed that the groundwater is in partial equilibrium with the host rock and may come from mixed sources. The estimated temperature of the deep geothermal reservoir is 127-184 degrees C, with an average of 157 degrees C, using cation geothermometry. Stochastic Monte Carlo simulations estimated the geothermal power potential in the AGB, with 14.3 MWe for a 25-year lifespan and 7.16 MWe for a 50-year lifespan for a 1 km2 site.
JOURNAL OF AFRICAN EARTH SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Albert Brandt Mbouopda Poupi, Katia Nchimi, Ronald Nguele, Muhammad Iqbal, Vijo Poulose, Kyuro Sasaki, Hakim Saibi
Summary: This study investigates the use of alumina-iron nanocomposite (NCP) to inhibit asphaltene precipitation. The synthesized Al:Fe NCP, made from pure aluminum and iron chloride, is a crystalline mixture of hematite and alumina with a purity of 99%. When the hematite content is decreased, the particle size decreases from around 60 to 10 nm. By adding Al:Fe NCP to a model crude oil, the amount of heptane required to precipitate asphaltene decreases.
PETROLEUM SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Ahmed Abdelmaksoud, Mohammed Y. Ali, Meixia Geng, Hakim Saibi
Summary: In this study, the basement depths in the United Arab Emirates' fold-and-thrust belt (FTB) and its associated foreland basins were determined and the relationship between shallow sedimentary structures and deep basement features was investigated. The results showed that thrusts, backthrusts, and folds were observed in the northern portions of the study area, while the Tarabat backthrust dominated the southern region. The 3D gravity inversion results suggested an increase in basement depth and the thickness of late Oligocene-early Miocene successions towards the north, indicating a northward increase in the severity of thrusting and crustal loading along the Khusub thrust. The correlation between basement uplifts and shallower anticlinal features suggested that the basement structures were reactivated during the Late Cretaceous ophiolite obduction and the late Oligocene-early Miocene Zagros collision.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Essam Aboud, Faisal Alqahtani, Murad Abdulfarraj, Ema Abraham, Nabil El-Masry, Helmy Osman
Summary: The Saudi Arabia government announced the NEOM City project, a $500 billion mega city that will connect Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordon. The selected site for NEOM city is geographically remarkable but requires a detailed geological investigation due to its location in a seismic active area. The preliminary results indicate potential geohazards and the presence of renewable geothermal energy near the Gulf of Aqaba.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Faisal Alqahtani, Essam Aboud, Muhsan Ehsan, Zohaib Naseer, Murad Abdulfarraj, Mohamed F. Abdelwahed, Nabil El-Masry
Summary: This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of gravity, magnetic, and land surface temperature data to investigate the geothermal potential of the Lunayyir volcanic field in western Saudi Arabia. The gravity data reveal a series of gravity anomalies that indicate the presence of subsurface geologic structures similar to other geothermal areas. The magnetic data show a relatively low magnetic susceptibility, consistent with the presence of volcanic rocks and shallow heat sources. Furthermore, satellite data indicates higher land surface temperature in 2007, suggesting volcanic activities in the subsurface. These findings highlight the importance of combining different geophysical datasets for a better understanding of underground geology and geothermal systems.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Aref Lashin, Mohammed Abu Anbar, Essam Aboud, Faisal Zaidi, Abdulaziz Al-Bassam, Nassir Al Arifi, Emad Al-Homadhi
Summary: This study focuses on the late stage of the Arabian Shield evolution and reveals the presence of post-collisional magmatism in the central and northern parts of the Arabian Shield. The studied granites are mainly composed of alkali feldspar granite and syenogranite, showing enrichment in light rare earth elements and depletion in heavy rare earth elements. They likely represent good sources of geothermal heat, uranium-thorium, and rare earth element mineralization.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Hakim Saibi, Nakamura Arata, Kawamura Kazuyuki, Balqees Mohamed, Nouf Alblooshi, Shama Almheiri
Summary: This article presents a Ceramic Membrane-based Produced Water Treatment Technology and its application to water samples from Al-Ain, UAE. The study found that the technology effectively treats water samples and removes solid particles. Therefore, it is recommended for improving water quality and potential agricultural use in Al-Ain.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Faisal Alqahtani, Muhsan Ehsan, Murad Abdulfarraj, Essam Aboud, Zohaib Naseer, Nabil N. El-Masry, Mohamed F. Abdelwahed
Summary: The global increase in energy demand, driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, requires a transition towards renewable energy sources to address environmental concerns and meet the growing demand for a higher standard of living. The Harrat Rahat volcanic field in Saudi Arabia has gained attention for its geothermal potential, and this study aims to use borehole temperature and remote sensing data to identify prospective zones for geothermal exploration and drilling. Machine learning techniques, particularly XG Boost, are effective in predicting temperature-at-depth and remote sensing data integration provides reliable results for geothermal assessment.
Letter
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Saif Ullah, Mohammed Y. Ali, Muhammad A. Iqbal, Fateh Bouchaala, Hakim Saibi
Summary: This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the groundwater aquifers, subsurface structures, and stratigraphy of the Al Jaww Plain in the UAE. Through geophysical and borehole investigations, the properties of three interconnected aquifers have been identified and characterized. The study also provides insights into the westward extension of the Hawasina thrust sheet and delineates the extent of the Semail ophiolite in the region. These findings are valuable for understanding freshwater resources and subsurface structures in the area.
GEOSCIENCE LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Mohamed Abdel Zaher, Samah Elbarbary, Abdullah T. Mohammad, Hakim Saibi, Mitsuo Matsumoto, Jun Nishijima, Yasuhiro Fujimitsu
Summary: Egypt's current power generation capacity relies on oil and gas, but increasing energy needs have put pressure on the government to develop alternative energy sources. A new study focuses on the Hurghada-El Gouna area and reveals its potential for geothermal energy generation, providing a promising option for renewable energy development in Egypt.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Abduldaem S. Alqasemi, Mohamed E. Hereher, Ayad M. Fadhil Al-Quraishi, Hakim Saibi, Ala Aldahan, Abdelgadir Abuelgasim
Summary: This study uses land-based temperature measurements and satellite data to estimate the distribution of air temperature (Ta) in the United Arab Emirates. The results show a significant correlation between land surface temperature (LST) and Ta, indicating the importance of LST as a proxy for Ta. These findings provide important tools for environmental and economic planning in the era of global climate change.
GEOCARTO INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
