Geochemical monitoring practices

Abstract

Identifying a clear goal for any monitoring campaign will lead to selection of appropriate scientific sampling and analytical techniques. A geothermal monitoring program without a clear sense of purpose may not meet resource protection needs. Goals of geothermal monitoring efforts include determining if the production of fluid from geothermal wells will measurably affect the discharge of a hydrothermal feature. Geothermal reservoirs undergo physical and chemical changes during drilling and fluid discharge which manifest in the fluid chemistry. Overexploitation of geothermal reservoirs leads to rapid drawdown of reservoir pressure and a corresponding decline in well output and power generation. Predicting undesirable processes like scale formation and corrosion, practicing sound environmental practises are important reasons why geochemical monitoring should be carried out in a geothermal field which leads to sound formulation of management practices of the field