Helium Isotopes

Helium Isotopes

Helium gas is a trace constituent of groundwater and thermal fluids, and the ratio of 3He to 4He can be measured with a high-precision mass spectrometer to determine whether it is derived from air, from the radioactive decay of uranium and thorium in the crust, or from the mantle. The latter is a characteristic feature of volcanic and geothermal gases.

Geothermal Glossary

Word of the Week – Well Casing

Word of the Week – Well Casing

Well Casing Large diameter pipe that is assembled and inserted into newly drilled intervals of a well. The upper portions of a cased well are commonly cemented in place to provide a smooth internal bore, and prevent the inflow of water and/or collapse of the hole.

Word of the Week – Wellhead

Word of the Week – Wellhead

Wellhead Surface equipment at the top of a well (oil, gas, geothermal) that provides a structural and pressure-containing interface for drilling and production equipment. It is used to support and attach the anchor casing via a welded connection. Other flow valves...

Word of the Week – Well Logging

Word of the Week – Well Logging

Well Logging Methods used to survey and characterize the physical and geological characteristics along and near the wall of a well, including the temperature, pressure, fracture density, fracture orientation, porosity, rock type, casing integrity, and fluid...

Utah FORGE

Advancing innovative technologies to unlock Earth’s limitless geothermal energy.