Numerical investigation of barite scaling kinetics in fractures

Barite stands out as one of the most ubiquitous scaling agents in deep geothermal systems, responsible for irreversible efficiency loss. Due to complex parameter interplay, it is imperative utilise numerical simulations investigate temporal and spatial precipitation effects. A one-dimensional reactive transport model set up with heterogeneous nucleation crystal growth kinetics. In line systems North German Basin, following parameters are considered a sensitivity analysis: temperature (25 150 °C), pore pressure (10 50 MPa), fracture aperture (10?4 10?2 m), flow velocity (10?3 100 m s?1), molar volume (50.3 55.6 cm3 mol?1), contact angle (0° 180°), interfacial tension (0.07 0.134 J m?2), salinity (0.1 1.5 mol kgw?1 NaCl), pH (5 7), supersaturation ratio (1 30). Nucleation consequently can only begin if threshold exceeded, therefore sensitive terms If has occurred, becomes dominant process, which mainly controlled by aperture. Results show that sealing takes place within months (median 33 days) affected range be on order tens metres 10 m). The presented models suggest barite must recognised serious threat case, large apertures could help minimise kinetic rates. further use adjusting fluid injection temperature.