SeisFOCUS has supported subsurface investigations for indirect geothermal applications at Duke University, contributing to site characterization efforts relevant to Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) and subsequent standing column well (SCW) evaluation. Project work has included support for multi-phase drilling activities, mud logging and preliminary lithologic identification, well logging characterization, water sampling and quality control, near-surface radiometric and electromagnetic induction surveys, and downhole monitoring support. Conducted in collaboration with Duke faculty, facilities and engineering stakeholders, and external partners, this work has helped improve understanding of subsurface conditions relevant to campus-scale geothermal feasibility and long-term energy infrastructure planning. 

In collaboration with Enegis, we conducted a Permeable Fracture Imaging (PFI) survey in the state of Oregon, USA. PFI is a novel passive‑seismic technique that does not require an active energy source. Instead, it relies on a dense deployment of seismic instruments combined with a high‑quality subsurface velocity model. The outcome of the survey is a detailed underground permeability map, highlighting zones where fractures allow significant water flow—key information for geothermal, hydrogeological, and subsurface characterization projects.

SeisFocus contributed to several critical aspects of the project, including the design of the survey (instrument density, layout, and overall survey dimensions), support during sensor deployment, and assistance with field logistics. Our team ensured optimal station coverage, efficient field operations, and high‑quality data acquisition, enabling a successful PFI imaging campaign.

The North Cascades region in Washington State holds significant potential for future geothermal energy development. To support early‑stage exploration, SeisFocus collaborated with Enegis to deploy a seismic monitoring network designed to detect and locate microearthquake activity across the area. The primary objective of this network is to triangulate micro‑seismic events occurring within the deployment zone. By analyzing these small‑magnitude earthquakes, the system provides valuable insight into subsurface structures, including the possible location of magma bodies, active fracture zones, and patterns of micro‑seismicity that indicate geothermal potential.

This information is essential during the preliminary phases of geothermal exploration, helping developers identify promising zones, evaluate reservoir characteristics, and reduce uncertainty before more invasive and costly operations begin.

SeisFocus contributed extensively to the project by designing and building custom seismic sensors using 2‑Hz geophones optimized for local geological conditions. Our team installed 12 permanent monitoring stations across rugged terrain, ensuring high‑quality signal capture and reliable data transmission. In addition to field deployment, SeisFocus supported the project through continuous data collection, event detection, and detailed seismic analysis. We also worked closely with Engines to interpret micro‑earthquake distributions and related geological features, providing actionable insights for geothermal assessment.

We were part of the groundbreaking ST1 Deep Heat project in Otaniemi, Finland—an ambitious geothermal initiative aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of producing clean, renewable district heating from deep crystalline bedrock. The project involved drilling two ultra‑deep geothermal wells, each exceeding 5 km in depth, and establishing connectivity between them through high‑pressure hydraulic stimulation.

Our team played a central role in the scientific design of the monitoring program and in managing near–real‑time seismic surveillance throughout the stimulation campaigns. To accomplish this, we deployed a comprehensive network of surface and downhole seismic stations, including a high‑resolution borehole array capable of detecting even very small microseismic events. This monitoring system allowed us to track the development of fracture networks, assess induced seismicity, and provide rapid feedback to the operational team to ensure both the safety and effectiveness of the stimulation activities.

In addition to real‑time monitoring, we contributed to the analysis and interpretation of seismic data, mapping fracture propagation, identifying seismic clustering patterns, and supporting traffic‑light‑system decisions when needed. Our work helped improve understanding of how deep‑crystalline geothermal reservoirs behave during hydraulic stimulation and contributed valuable insights to the global enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) research community.