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Optimizing Deep Geothermal Drilling for Energy Sustainability in the Appalachian Basin

Author

Listed:
  • Ebrahim Fathi

    (Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA)

  • Georges Brown Liwuitekong Dongho

    (Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA)

  • Babak Heidari

    (Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA)

  • Timothy R. Carr

    (Department of Geology and Geography, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA)

  • Fatemeh Belyadi

    (Obsertelligence, LLC, Aubrey, TX 76227, USA)

  • Ilkin Bilgesu

    (Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA)

Abstract

This study investigates the geological and geomechanical characteristics of the MIP 1S geothermal well in the Appalachian Basin to optimize drilling and address the wellbore stability issues encountered. Data from well logs, sidewall core analysis, and injection tests were used to derive elastic and rock strength properties, as well as stress and pore pressure profiles. A robust 1D-geomechanical model was developed and validated, correlating strongly with wellbore instability observations. This revealed significant wellbore breakout, widening the diameter from 12 ¼ inches to over 16 inches. Advanced technologies like Cerebro Force™ In-Bit Sensing were used to monitor drilling performance with high accuracy. This technology tracks critical metrics such as bit acceleration, vibration in the x, y, and z directions, Gyro RPM, stick-slip indicators, and bending on the bit. Cerebro Force™ readings identified hole drag caused by poor hole conditions, including friction between the drill string and wellbore walls and the presence of cuttings or debris. This led to higher torque and weight on bit (WOB) readings at the surface compared to downhole measurements, affecting drilling efficiency and wellbore stability. Optimal drilling parameters for future deep geothermal wells were determined based on these findings.

Suggested Citation

  • Ebrahim Fathi & Georges Brown Liwuitekong Dongho & Babak Heidari & Timothy R. Carr & Fatemeh Belyadi & Ilkin Bilgesu, 2024. "Optimizing Deep Geothermal Drilling for Energy Sustainability in the Appalachian Basin," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(18), pages 1-16, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:18:p:8053-:d:1478425
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    Cited by:

    1. Tawfik Elshehabi & Mohammad Alfehaid, 2025. "Sustainable Geothermal Energy: A Review of Challenges and Opportunities in Deep Wells and Shallow Heat Pumps for Transitioning Professionals," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(4), pages 1-29, February.

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