Technological approaches to overcoming geothermal well integrity challenges: A review of modern solutions

Geothermal energy is a unique and sustainable renewable resource, distinguished by its substantial reserves, extensive geographical distribution, low-carbon characteristics, and robust stability. The wellbore plays a critical role in geothermal energy production, operating in high-temperature and corrosive environments. However, wellbores often face well integrity (WI) challenges during their lifespans, resulting in financial losses, occupational injuries, and environmental harm. To address these challenges, technological approaches can be utilized to enhance WI, develop preventative and mitigative measures, and improve the overall effectiveness of WI management systems. This literature review explores modern solutions, including advanced inspection technologies, nanotechnology, machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT), focusing on their applications to ensure the structural integrity of wells. Advanced inspection technologies, leveraging unmanned vehicles and robotic systems, can optimize accessibility to equipment in unreachable areas, minimize human exposure to hazardous environments, and provide real-time data to assist in detecting equipment cracks and leakages. Nanotechnology, such as nano-sensors housed on casings, can remotely observe cement properties, a critical component of WI, effectively enabling early defect detection. Moreover, nanomaterials implemented in wellbore's equipment can strengthen the durability under heavy loads and high temperatures. After the data gathering phase from all available sources, IoT setups, such as the digital twin version of the wellbore, can provide valuable insights into the future phases of the well. By adjusting parameters based on ML predictive results, these setups enable the initiation of effective response plans, enhancing occupational safety and situational awareness. • WI is vital in the safety and sustainability of geothermal energy production. • Advanced inspection tech aids in gathering data to determine the quality of tools. • Nanotechnology improves data monitoring and extends wellbore elements' lifespan. • ML generates different models for analyzing well behaviour while assessing risks. • IoT assists in digital twin progress and staff safety assurance for WI purposes.