Exploring Volcanic Magma in Iceland: Plans to Drill Near Krafla Caldera for Clean Energy Source

Drilling Near Volcano in Iceland – Advancing Magma Science

A team of researchers plans to drill directly near a volcanic area in Iceland, in what may be the first of its kind from a scientific standpoint.

Understanding Magma Behavior and Clean Energy

The goal is to advance our understanding of how magma behaves underground, and what causes volcanoes to erupt. At the same time, the team hopes to be able to tap into an almost unlimited source of clean energy.

The Krafla Magma Testbed

The work is being carried out by the organization Krafla Magma Testbed (KMT), named after the Krafla volcanic caldera in northeastern Iceland.

Building on Previous Efforts

The work builds on previous efforts at the beginning of the century to drill near one of Krafla’s magma chambers. On that occasion, the intention was merely to approach the chamber to explore geothermal options. However, the chamber was not as deep as expected: the project accidentally penetrated the magma vault, which ultimately prevented any further attempts at excavation. However, it confirmed that drilling into the magma chamber does not cause the volcano to erupt.

A Second Attempt

Now, scientists are trying again, and it is very difficult to locate magma chambers, so the Krafla site provides an unusual opportunity to access one of these chambers, and then be able to conduct experiments that were not possible before. There are many challenges, including developing drills and sensors that can survive extreme heat, pressure and acidity. If all goes as planned, drilling will begin in 2026.

Tapping Clean Energy

Drilling of a second well is expected to begin in 2028, with plans to tap superheated water stored at extremely high pressures to power turbines, all powered by what nature has already given us.

Source: ScienceAlert

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