Geothermal energy is gaining global momentum, with countries like the U.S., Indonesia, and the Philippines leading the way.
Mineral Geothermometer
A secondary mineral phase whose stability is defined by a lower and sometimes an upper temperature threshold. Common mineral geothermometers comprise clays, zeolites and epidote, with crystal structures that contain a hydroxyl (OH–) or water (H2O) molecule. The temperature ranges of mineral geothermometers are calibrated from investigations of a large number of drilled geothermal resources where mineral zonations and temperature gradients have been determined.
Geothermal Glossary
Word of the Week – Cement Bond Log
Cement Bond Log A geophysical well log that is obtained using a sonic-type tool on a wireline. The result helps to confirm the integrity of the hardened cement that was injected to form a bond between well casing and the adjacent rock formation.
Word of the Week – Chemical Geothermometer
Chemical Geothermometer A temperature that is calculated based on the chemical composition of a hydrothermal fluid and involves knowing a ratio (e.g., Na/K) or knowing the absolute concentration of a species (e.g., SiO2). Temperature is computed using a simple...
Word of the Week – Chlorite
Chlorite A micaceous mineral that is commonly green-colored, composed of iron and/or magnesium, and forms due to hydrothermal alteration of amphiboles, pyroxenes, and feldspars.