Adrok’s Geothermal Measurements in NE England
In Northeast England, Adrok conducted geothermal surveys aimed at identifying potential geothermal energy resources beneath the surface. Here’s how it works and what was found:
Measurement Methodology:
- Adrok’s tool emits a low-frequency electromagnetic wave into the subsurface.
- These waves penetrate rock layers and reflect back when encountering changes in material properties (like temperature, moisture, or mineral content).
- The returned signals are analyzed to create a profile of the underground geology, including temperature gradients and the presence of heat reservoirs.
- Data is converted into “Virtual Boreholes” — essentially electronic logs showing subsurface structure, similar to what you’d get from actual drilling.
- It is non‑invasive and can be deployed rapidly across a site, much more quickly and cheaply than drilling or seismic surveys.
- This makes ADR attractive for geothermal exploration where understanding the thermal structure and rock types before expensive drilling is important.
Why NE England?
- Northeast England has potential geothermal energy sources due to its geological makeup. Weardale Granite in NE England is a heat source: granite bodies generally have higher heat production than surrounding sedimentary rocks.
- Drilling at Eastgate (above Weardale) showed temperatures of ~46 °C at ~995 m, which is about 10–15 °C higher than UK averages, along with hot saline water at ~410 m depth.
- Nearby Science Central (Newcastle) sits in Carboniferous limestones and sandstones, with a high geothermal gradient of ~39 °C/km noted from drilling — also above typical UK gradients (~27 °C/km).
- These geological conditions make the region of interest for deep geothermal heat — particularly hot sedimentary aquifers and radiogenic granite sources.
- Targeting areas with hot rock formations or existing water-filled fractures can provide sustainable heat for energy use.
Findings:
- Adrok’s measurements helped map the subsurface temperature distribution.
- They identified zones of higher geothermal gradient, suggesting accessible heat sources.
- This data supports the feasibility of geothermal energy projects, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Benefits of Adrok’s Technology:
- Non-invasive and rapid measurement.
- Detailed underground profiling without costly drilling.
- Ability to distinguish between different subsurface materials.
