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Peering at the micromechanics of the brittle-ductile transition and its effects on fluid flow

Project description

A better way to study rock deformation and fluid movement in extreme conditions

Supercritical geothermal energy offers immense potential as a renewable, carbon-free energy source, yet tapping it is challenging. These energy reservoirs lie deep in the Earth’s crust, where extreme heat and pressure push rocks to behave in complex ways, shifting between brittle and ductile states. While this transition zone was once considered to block fluid movement, new research suggests otherwise. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PERCOLATE project aims to explore how rocks deform and how fluids flow in this brittle-ductile transition. To this end, researchers will combine advanced rock deformation experiments, 4D X-ray imaging, machine learning analysis and fluid flow modelling. Project findings will help support the EU Green Deal’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

Objective

Supercritical geothermal energy is a new frontier in the pursuit of renewable, carbon-free energy. However, the extreme pressure and temperature conditions where supercritical reservoirs are found in Earth's crust coincide with the transition zone where rocks shift from brittle to ductile behaviour. Historically, this transition was believed to be a cut-off for fluid circulation, but recent findings have challenged this view, highlighting the urgent need to understand the mechanical and hydrological behaviours of rocks within this rheological domain. PERCOLATE proposes to investigate the mechanics of rock deformation and fluid flow at this brittle-ductile transition by integrating advanced rock deformation techniques, X-ray 4D imaging, machine learning-based image analysis and fluid flow modelling This project leverages my extensive experimental experience and enriches my expertise with valuable new skills in imaging and machine learning. Ultimately, PERCOLATE will contribute to the EU New Green Deal’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 by advancing our comprehension of geothermal energy and deformation in the crust.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITETET I OSLO
Net EU contribution
€ 251 578,56
Address
PROBLEMVEIEN 5-7
0313 Oslo
Norway
Region
Norge Oslo og Viken Oslo
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data