New high-temperature deep sampler – a step forward with innovation in research and utilization of geothermal energy

Since its founding, ÍSOR has placed strong emphasis on research, innovation and the development of economical solutions to meet the challenges associated with the utilization of geothermal energy.

Since its founding, ÍSOR has placed strong emphasis on research, innovation and the development of cost-effective solutions to meet challenges related to the utilisation of geothermal energy.

The most recent example of such innovation is a high-temperature deep sampler, which is the result of extensive development work in the European research projects REFLECT and COMPASS, which were funded by Horizon Europe, the European Union's research programme.

The deep sampler is designed to take samples of geothermal fluid deep within geothermal systems, with the aim of obtaining samples at temperatures of up to 400-500°C. During the development work the deep sampler has been tested for taking samples from the wells of Orka Náttúrunnar and Orkuveitan.

The device was recently used for the first time in the high-temperature wells of Landsvirkjun at Þeistareykir, where fluid samples were taken from different depths in two boreholes.

With this technology it is possible to obtain far more accurate chemical information from the geothermal system than has previously been possible, since normally samples are only taken of geothermal fluid at the surface. Such data are key for monitoring, condition assessment and long-term understanding of the evolution of geothermal systems.

They enable energy companies to monitor changes in the geothermal system more closely, assess the reliability of the system, the effects of reinjection, and support sustainable and informed decision-making for the future.

The introduction of the high-temperature deep sampler thus marks an important step forward in the use of new technology in Icelandic geothermal utilisation and contributes to better and more sustainable use of the geothermal resource.

Below you can see a video from the day the deep sampler was used for the first time in the high-temperature wells of Landsvirkjun at Þeistareykir.