Comparative investigation of the heat extraction performance of an enhanced geothermal system using H2, CO2, and H2O as working fluids

Abstract

The optimization of working fluids in single-well coaxial geothermal systems presents a critical pathway for advancing the use of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) in renewable energy applications. This study evaluates the thermo-hydraulic performance of three working fluids (H₂O, CO₂, and H₂) in a single-well coaxial geothermal system, focusing on the effects of their injection temperatures. Using a 3D finite element model in COMSOL Multiphysics, simulations were conducted at three injection temperatures (17 °C, 27 °C, 40 °C) under constant mass flow rates. The results reveal that hydrogen significantly outperforms water and carbon dioxide, achieving a 297.77 % and 5453.76 % higher thermal output, respectively. Notably, the heat transfer efficiency is significantly improved when the injected working fluids are at 40 °C, compared to 27 °C; this demonstrates a positive correlation between injection temperature and thermal recovery. Though water systems exhibit better geological compatibility, the superior thermal properties of hydrogen position it as a promising alternative—despite potential subsurface challenges. This study provides critical insights for advancing the application of high-efficiency geothermal systems as well as the development of non-aqueous working fluids, thus contributing to the sustainable utilization of geothermal energy.