Kayode Sanni urges action on geothermal well integrity

As the global push for net-zero emissions accelerates, geothermal energy is gaining traction as a reliable renewable source. However, ensuring the integrity of geothermal wells under extreme high-temperature and high-pressure (HTHP) conditions remains a major challenge.

Kayode Sanni, a dual Master’s student in Petroleum Engineering and Data Science at the University of Oklahoma, is making strides in this field with groundbreaking research on cement optimization for geothermal wells.

Speaking with newsmen, Sanni explained how his peer-reviewed study, Comparative Analysis of Casing-Cement Interfacial Bonding Shear Strength Using Class G and Class H Cement at Room and Elevated Temperatures, published in GRC Transactions (Vol. 48, 2024), provides critical insights into cement performance under geothermal conditions. The study was also featured at the prestigious Geothermal Rising Conference 2024.

“Geothermal energy operates 24/7, unlike solar and wind, making it a crucial component of decarbonization efforts. However, well failures due to cement debonding and fluid leakage pose serious risks,” Sanni stated.

His research directly addresses these challenges by analyzing the Interfacial Bonding Shear Strength (IBSS) of Class G and Class H cements at 75°C, evaluating their long-term stability, and identifying factors that influence their performance. His findings reveal that higher temperatures can weaken cement bonds, which could compromise wellbore stability.

By providing valuable data on cement formulations, Sanni’s work helps geothermal engineers select thermally resilient materials, reducing well failures and improving project efficiency. His research aligns with the U.S. Department of Energy’s goals to enhance geothermal adoption, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and lower remediation costs.

Beyond his published study, Sanni is leveraging data-driven techniques to further optimize cement performance. Using machine learning and statistical modeling, he aims to predict cement behavior under different geothermal conditions and refine additive formulations that improve shear and compressive strength.

“My approach combines engineering expertise with advanced analytics to develop cement blends that resist chemical degradation and maintain long-term structural integrity,” he noted.

His contributions have earned industry recognition, including a presentation at the Geothermal Rising Conference, one of the world’s leading forums for geothermal innovation.

As the U.S. scales up geothermal deployment, Sanni’s research plays a crucial role in improving well integrity, minimizing environmental risks, and ensuring sustainable energy production. His findings contribute to making geothermal energy more reliable and cost-effective, supporting the nation’s net-zero roadmap.

With global geothermal capacity set to expand, his work stands as a pivotal step toward securing long-term well integrity and advancing clean energy solutions worldwide.