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From Lab to Field - Quantum Gravity Sensors Adapted from Information by the University of Birmingham Experts in quantum cold-atom sensors are going deep underground in a new project aimed at harnessing quantum gravity sensing technology in harsh underground borehole environments. The Gravity Delve project, funded by Innovate UK, is bringing academics from the UK Quantum Technology Hub Sensors and Timing, led by the University of Birmingham, and Nemein Ltd together to investigate the benefits and challenges associated with using quantum gravity sensors in boreholes. Quantum gravity sensors based on atom interferometry (using the interference of waves) are already being developed for use in the gas and oil sector. Quantum cold-atom sensors designed to operate on the surface will be able to detect and monitor objects beneath the ground better than any current technology. However, little attention has been paid to the benefits borehole deployable quantum gravity sensors could have. Nemein is developing borehole deployed equipment focussed on energy harvesting and environmental sensing. The technology will enable the quantum sensor developed by the University of Birmingham to venture out of the lab and into the extremely harsh downhole environment. Borehole applications to be investigated in the project will include Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), as well as hydrocarbon and geothermal reservoirs. Existing techniques for reservoir optimization include conventional microgravity, electrical, and nuclear logging. These techniques are limited by sensitivity, resolution, and cost. Gravity Delve is investigating how a commercially relevant quantum device could replace or enhance current technology to optimize CCS reservoirs, minimize the environmental impact from hydrocarbon extraction, and enhance the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy such as geothermal. This project will build on the work done by the University of Birmingham in cold-atom gravity sensors. Mr. Lawrence Till, cofounder and technical director for Nemein said, “Gravity Delve is not just a project which will optimize CCS and borehole energy extraction. It is very significant as a relatable project to show Quantum Technology can be deployed in some of the harshest environments in the real world and demonstrate tangible benefits to the environment.” Bauer Umwelt Installs Geothermal Probes in Germany Adapted from Information by BAUER Group When it comes to expanding the electricity grid, wind turbines and solar panels get a lot of attention, heat generation and consumption on the other hand, is less known despite the fact it accounts for about half of all energy consumption. Economical and efficient energy use can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and make a considerable contribution to environmental protection. Increased use of geothermal heating and cooling is a possible starting point, according to Dr. Frank Tidden, head of sales in the Bauer Umwelt division of the BAUER Resources GmbH. “A considerable amount of geothermal energy lies dormant underground, and can make an important contribution to an effective heating revolution,” he stated. Bauer Umwelt (Bauer Environment) is a member company of the BAUER Group, based in Schrobenhausen, in the southern German state of Bavaria. The Group's Resources segment, established in 2007, is focused on a number of key fields including water, the environment, mineral resources, and energy. The Bauer Umwelt division knows all about geothermal heating and cooling, as a recently completed project in Karlsruhe, Germany, demonstrates. There, in the middle of a technology park in the “fan-shaped city”, a new administrative building is being built for Vector Informatik GmbH. Bauer was responsible for the geothermal energy portion. Around 404 geothermal probes were drilled down to 115 feet deep, four cement distribution shafts were built, the connection lines were laid and then connected. The highlight of the system is the underground energy can be used to both heat and cool the building. “In summer, the brine brings coolness up and transfers the warmth down into the ground to be stored for the coming winter,” explained Bauer Umwelt Project Manager Nico Beldermann. “The advantages - badly ventilated or [drafty] offices, high heating costs in winter, and overworked air conditioners in summer are a thing of the past.” The Bauer part of the project was concluded earlier this year. The new six-story building will not only have an innovative and sustainable heating and cooling system, it will also offer space for 600 workplaces, a connected parking garage with around 200 parking spaces, a multifunctional event area, and a canteen. 37 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® DECEMBER 2020 Congratulations to : Ron Lemmon Indi ana, PA Winner for November! Winner for November! Time for a Little Fun! November Puzzle Solution: Atlas Manufacturing Ltd. Keystone Drill Services, Inc. Win a prize! Send completed puzzle to: WWDRPO Box 660 Bonifay, FL 32425 fax: 850-547-0329 or e-mail: michele@ worldwidedrillingresource.com Unscramble the beginning letters of these words ending with ION, and fill in. TORCPET _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I O N TRIGIRA _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I O N TAXCERT _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I O N SPRESUC _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I O N TIPNECS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I O N GEO G&O

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