MXene-Engineered Superhydrophobic Nanosheets and Nanocomposites: Advanced Anti-Scaling Solutions for Enhanced Geothermal Systems

Mineral scaling in Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) represents a significant challenge, where solid deposits from geothermal brines (e.g., the temperature- or pressure-induced precipitation of silicates, carbonates, sulfates, and other mineral species) critically impair the efficiency of heat extraction and energy production. These deposits obstruct fluid flow, diminish heat exchange efficiency, potential equipment failures, and necessitate frequent maintenance interventions, leading to operational inefficiencies and increased costs. Numerous de-scaling strategies, including chemical inhibitors, mechanical removal, thermal management, etc., have been proposed and implemented; however, each of these methods presents practical limitations, especially when applied within the harsh environment of EGS. The major obstacle for these methods is the requirement for regular system shutdowns to perform maintenance, recalibration, or cleaning, exacerbating operational disruptions and economic burdens. Therefore, there is a critical need for innovative approaches to continuously and effectively inhibit mineral scaling, ensuring the long-term viability of the equipment and the cost-effectiveness of the EGS. This research aims to develop a novel class of functionalized MXenes nanocomposite (dubbed as HydroShield-X) with superhydrophobic properties as a descaling agent in EGS systems. MXene nanosheets, known for their stability under extreme conditions, will be transformed from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic using optimal surface functionalizations identified through atomistic-level simulations. These coatings will be tested in laboratory setups mimicking geothermal conditions, including high temperatures (~350°C) and pressures (~20 MPa), to validate their antiscaling performance and durability. Initial lab-scale development in Phase I will be followed by commercial-scale production in Phase II and field testing potentially at the DOE-funded Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) site at Utah. HydroShield-X offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods, enhances the longevity of the equipment, reduces maintenance downtime, and is scalable to various operational conditions. This product is expected to provide a transformative solution for industries facing scaling issues, such as geothermal, oil and gas, and other geo-energy sectors, e.g., underground hydrogen storage. Additionally, in Phase I, as part of the PIER plan, MetaScape will hire a graduate student as a summer intern from University of Utah. The intern will be selected from minority groups and/or marginalized populations and will receive rigorous training on simulation models for complex material development and interpersonal skills. University of Utah will hire and mentor a postdoctoral fellow from underrepresented communities and run an outreach visit and presentation to educate at least 25-50 ethnically diversified students on topics about geo-energy systems and entrepreneurial skills.