1st Edition

Geologic Fundamentals of Geothermal Energy

By David R. Boden Copyright 2017
    425 Pages 247 Color Illustrations
    by CRC Press

    Geothermal energy stands out because it can be used as a baseload resource. This book, unlike others, examines the geology related to geothermal applications. Geology dictates (a) how geothermal resources can be found, (b) the nature of the geothermal resource (such as liquid- or vapor-dominated) and (c) how the resource might be developed ultimately (such as flash or binary geothermal plants). The compilation and distillation of geological elements of geothermal systems into a single reference fills a notable gap.

    Introduction. Classification and uses of geothermal systems. Geology and heat architecture of earth's interior. Fundamental geologic elements of geothermal systems. Subsurface flow of geothermal fluids. Physical and chemical characteristics of geothermal systems. Geologic settings and case studies of geothermal systems. Exploration and discovery of geothermal systems. Environmental considerations of geothermal operations. Geothermal systems and mineral deposits. New generation geothermal systems. The future of geothermal energy.

    Biography

    Boden, David R.

    "Anyone in the business of geothermal energy would find this book to be a valuable reference and an excellent treatise on why understanding the geological setting of geothermal systems is essential for a profitable enterprise. The book will also be of interest to geoscientists and engineers involved in the discovery and mining of metallic ore deposits."
    — Jonathan G. Price, Nevada State Geologist Emeritus; Reno University of Nevada, Reno, USA 

    "I really like the focus on the geologic aspects of geothermal energy, and the description of the physical and chemical properties of water and its importance in extracting heat from the earth and altering the host rock is excellent. I’m excited to bring this book into my classroom. The end-of-chapter questions are thought provoking and could be easily incorporated into an exam, in-class discussion or role-playing activity. I think this text will be an excellent contribution to geothermal energy classrooms and as a reference for geothermal geologists."
    — Pete Stelling, Western Washington University, USA

    "The topics are well thought out and organized. Dr. Boden has a rarely matched diversity of experience in metals exploration, geothermal exploration, and teaching in both subjects, which gives him a unique perspective and makes him eminently qualified to write this book."
    —Mark Coolbaugh, Nevada Bureau of Mines and University of Nevada, Reno, USA