Preventing Scaling and Corrosion in Geothermal Facilities with Novel Lubricant-Infused Barrier Coating

Pipeline Safety

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$571,634

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Project Update

Superhydrophobic lubricant-infused composite (SLIC) barrier coating has been demonstrated at TRL 4 in a geothermal plant process loop, successfully repelling scaling to a greater extent than uncoated steel. The project aims to achieve TRL 6 within three years, culminating in operational demonstration of SLIC-coated carbon steel piping installed in a geothermal process line for a six-month field test. The project team has completed the first round of lab testing in which several formulations of SLIC was developed and tested. The project will proceed with field testing followed by more lab work.

The Issue

As hot geothermal fluids move through pipes and equipment, dissolved minerals rapidly cool and precipitate, forming hard scale deposits that clog pipes, reduce flow, and damage components.

Scaling and corrosion in geothermal facilities increase capital and operating expenses, leading to frequent failures. Existing solutions are costly, environmentally concerning, and disruptive. These challenges are exacerbated when introducing processes to capture lithium and other minerals from geothermal process flows.

Project Innovation

The project will develop and demonstrate a novel superhydrophobic lubricant-infused composite (SLIC) barrier coating optimized to resist scaling and corrosion when used to line piping in Salton Sea geothermal power plants. SLIC is a high-performance, cost-effective anti-scaling coating that reduces the impacts of the major obstacle to successful geothermal operation—fouling of pipes and equipment. Unlike other coatings, SLIC does not require preheating or baking, is non-toxic, self-healing, and easy to apply. Its formulation includes a polymer binder, ceramic reinforcement, and lubricant, optimized for harsh geothermal conditions.

Project Goals

Optimize the SLIC coating system’s formula for the harsh conditions of geothermal energy process flows.

Achieve TRL 6 with operational demonstration of SLIC-coated piping in the Salton Sea geothermal field.

Quantify economic advantages and return on investment through techno-economic analysis.

Project Benefits

By preventing or limiting scaling and corrosion, SLIC helps geothermal plants operate more efficiently. When pipes and equipment stay clear of mineral buildup, facilities can maintain steady flow and avoid costly repairs or shutdowns. This lowers operating costs, supports more reliable clean energy generation, and helps keep electricity rates stable. It also facilitates more effective mineral extraction, increases tax revenue, enhances local innovation, and reduces waste from chemical treatments and mechanical cleaning.