Scientific Contributions Oil and Gas
Vol 49 No 1 (2026)

The Significance of Nanofluids as Working Fluids in Energy Extraction Process on Geothermal Heat Exchanger System Utilizing Abandoned Oil Wells: A Review

Prihtiantoro, Dedhy (Unknown)
Maula, Mohamad Izzur (Unknown)
Imaduddin, Fitrian (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Feb 2026

Abstract

Geothermal energy offers significant potential as an environmentally friendly renewable resource; however, large-scale deployment remains constrained by high drilling and infrastructure costs. Repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells as geothermal heat exchanger systems has emerged as a promising alternative, yet research on the application of nanofluids in such systems remains limited and fragmented. This review employs a narrative synthesis approach to analyze more than 80 peer-reviewed studies related to wellbore geothermal heat exchangers, working fluids, and nanofluid thermal enhancement mechanisms. The review identifies a clear knowledge gap regarding the integration of nanofluids into geothermal heat extraction processes in deep coaxial and U-tube systems, particularly with respect to long-term stability, pressure drop, and techno-economic feasibility. Findings indicate that nanofluids, especially metal-oxide and hybrid formulations, can substantially enhance thermal conductivity and heat transfer performance, with TiO₂- and CuO-based nanofluids showing the most promising results. However, challenges remain in optimizing concentration, ensuring stability, and mitigating increased pumping power. Overall, this review provides a consolidated understanding of existing research and highlights key directions for future development to improve heat extraction efficiency in geothermal systems utilizing abandoned wells.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

SCOG

Publisher

Subject

Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & Bioengineering Energy

Description

The Scientific Contributions for Oil and Gas is the official journal of the Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS for the dissemination of information on research activities, technology engineering development and laboratory testing in the oil and gas field. Manuscripts in English are accepted from ...