Multifactor Coupling Effects on Permeability Evolution During Reinjection in Sandstone Geothermal Reservoirs: Insights from Dynamic Core Flow Experiments

Miaoqing Li, Sen Zhang (), Yanting Zhao, Yun Cai, Ming Zhang, Zheng Liu, Pengtao Li, Bing Wang, Bowen Xu, Jian Shen and Bo Feng
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Miaoqing Li: Faculty of Engineering, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
Sen Zhang: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Yanting Zhao: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Yun Cai: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Ming Zhang: Faculty of Engineering, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
Zheng Liu: College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
Pengtao Li: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Bing Wang: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Bowen Xu: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Jian Shen: Observation and Research Station of Tianjin Low-Medium Temperature Geothermal Resources, MNR, Tianjin 300250, China
Bo Feng: College of New Energy and Environment, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 17, 1-24

Abstract: Efficient reinjection is critical for maintaining reservoir pressure and ensuring the sustainable development of sandstone geothermal systems. However, complex thermal–hydraulic–chemical (THC) interactions often lead to progressive permeability reduction, significantly impairing injection performance. This study systematically investigates the coupled effects of injection flow rate, temperature, and suspended particle size on permeability evolution during geothermal reinjection. Laboratory-scale core flow-through experiments were conducted using sandstone samples from the Guantao Formation in the Huanghua Depression, Bohai Bay Basin. The experimental schemes included graded flow rate tests, temperature-stepped injections, particle size control, long-term seepage, and reverse-flow backflushing operations. The results reveal that permeability is highly sensitive to injection parameters. Flow rates exceeding 6 mL/min induce irreversible clogging and pore structure damage, while lower rates yield more stable injection behavior. Injection at approximately 35 °C resulted in a permeability increase of 15.7%, attributed to reduced fluid viscosity and moderate clay swelling and secondary precipitation. Particles larger than 3 μm were prone to bridging and persistent clogging, whereas smaller particles exhibited more reversible behavior. During long-term seepage, reverse injection implemented upon permeability decline restored up to 98% of the initial permeability, confirming its effectiveness in alleviating pore throat blockage. Based on these findings, a combined reinjection strategy is recommended, featuring low flow rate (≤5 mL/min), moderate injection temperature (~35 °C), and fine filtration (≤3 μm). In addition, periodic backflushing should be considered when permeability loss exceeds 30% or a sustained injection pressure rise is observed. This study provides robust experimental evidence and practical guidance for optimizing geothermal reinjection operations.

Keywords: Huanghua Depression; Guantao Formation sandstone; seepage experiment; permeability variation; geothermal reinjection (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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