Electrical Rock Fracturing Techniques and Applications

ABSTRACT: As pointed out in the GeoVision Geothermal Report (DOE, 2019), reservoir stimulation is often considered the most critical bottleneck in the development of Enhanced Geothermal Systems. Hydraulic fracturing (HF) has proven to be a game changer in many domains such as shale gas extraction. However, alternatives are being explored due to the intensive water consumption of HF, significant environmental effects, and challenges associated with fracture propagation control (which is critical for the connection between the injection and production wells). Electrical rock fracturing has recently drawn significant attention as an environmentally friendlier alternative. Electrical fracturing of rock is a reservoir stimulation technique in which a high-voltage electric current (pulsed or continuous) is used to break rock through mechanisms such as mechanical shock waves, thermal effects (Joule heating), or dielectric breakdown, either individually or in combination. This study reviews the existing literature and explores the application of electrical fracturing. We will describe the different mechanisms involved in the electric fracturing process as well as recent developments and discuss both current and potential future applications.