Preliminary Tests Using a Laser Particle-Size Analyzer on Geothermal Brine

摘要

A laser light-scattering particle-size analyzer was used for a two-day period under limited field conditions to observe the occurrence and growth of particles in geothermal brines. Tests were conducted under conditions where both pH and rate of cooling to room temperature strongly influence the size and nature of the particulate population, with a low (4.5) pH and rapid quenching favoring slow growth rates. A method for estimating particulate mass in time periods shorter than 6 h from quenching is presented. Some implications for sampling and solids analysis are discussed. (ERA citation 03:023530)