Effect of pore fluid chemistry on mechanical behavior in limestone rock.

This is an internally funded project. Geothermal energy is one of the more sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels that could facilitate the energy transition. Limestone reservoirs are being investigated as potential geothermal energy production targets. The production of geothermal energy can alter the reservoir fluid composition in various ways. The mechano-chemical effects of pore fluid composition on limestone rocks is still poorly understood. In this proposed research project the goal is to obtain a true understanding of the role of fluid chemistry on the mechanical properties of limestone rocks. One particular application of this research will be to assess how the active use of the subsurface e.g. production of geothermal energy in the Netherlands will be affected by the research findings.