Injection of Geothermal Sludge and Scales into Abandoned Wells - An Opportunity-Based Waste Disposal Alternative

An opportunity-based alternative for the safe disposal of cooling tower sludges and brine scales generated from the operation of geothermal power plants is through injection in abandoned wells. The different alternatives and associated problems on the selection of appropriate long-term waste management options for geothermal solid wastes are presented and compared based on site-specific scenario in the Philippines. Environmental and safety considerations in the implementation of the waste preparation and injection procedures are also presented and discussed.