Research alliance aims to address material challenges of geothermal in Taiwan
Two research institutes in Taiwan have come together to advance geothermal technology research in Taiwan, with initial focus on composite pipe materials.
The Metal Industry Research and Development Center (MCC) and the Department of Resource Engineering at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) have entered into a collaboration to strengthen the geothermal industry of Taiwan, working together on various research fields including materials engineering, geological simulation, and economic modeling.
With support from the Department of Energy’s Science and Technology Specialty Program, the MCC has achieved technological breakthroughs in materials research for geothermal applications, such as acid-base diversion design and the localization of pipes that meet international API standards. They have also developed acid-resistant titanium alloy/steel composite pipes for demanding acidic geothermal sites, completing dynamic laboratory and field testing.
The work done by MCC has successfully attracted investment from companies such as China Steel, Zhonghong, and Quanyang Geothermal, driving the gradual formation of an industry chain and demonstrating the strength of corporate R&D and industry collaboration. This has attracted over 10 companies to join the industry alliance, injecting new momentum into geothermal development in the northern Datun Mountains.
Xiang Xingyi, Dean of the Department of Resources at National Cheng Kung University, states that the NCKU contributes their expertise in energy research, geological science, and numerical modeling. The institute has years of research results and has maintained close relationships with domestic and international industry partners.
The two parties also expressed the intent to expand their existing partnership to cover area such as carbo sequestration, hydrogen, the circular economy, and metal recycling, further reiterating their commitment to jointly promoting green energy. They also plan to co-host an international geothermal symposium in October to create an international exchange platform and jointly promote Taiwan’s geothermal industry.
Looking ahead, the MCC and NCKU will continue to deepen their collaboration, proactively developing advanced geothermal systems (AGS) and conducting research and development in deep geothermal horizontal pipeline coatings, geological simulation, and economic modeling. Both parties hope to leverage the combined influence of academia and industry to support the implementation of government policies and the establishment of supply chains, driving Taiwan’s geothermal industry onto the international stage and injecting new momentum into the transition to green energy.
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