Human Exploitation
Several scientists have speculated as to how to possibly harness hydrothermal vent energy. Innovators, such as those developing the “Marshall Hydrothermal System,” are focused on developing a safer, renewable source of energy. They state hydrothermal energy could potentially generate more energy than nuclear power. The natural heat energy contained within the hydrothermal fluid could be used to generate massive amounts of electricity once it has been transferred to the surface through pipes. Many speculate that the high natural heat of the thermal water could be used to easily desalinate water during transport to the surface. It is important to note that unlike solar, wind, or tidal energies, hydrothermal energy could be utilized continuously.
Many also speculate as to how to utilize the continuous flow of dissolved minerals emerging from the vents. Hydrothermal vents are rich surces of iron, gold, silver, copper, zinc, cadmium, manganese, sulfer, etc. These minerals present in the water could be transported to a ship for later extraction or processing.
There are several potential failings in these systems; the most apparent is the cost of such an apparatus. Hydrothermal vents have a relatively short lifespan. Moving a mineral/heat collecting apparatus every few decades might be problematic in the long run. Nevertheless, research into potential methods of hydrothermal energy generation are promising.
Many also speculate as to how to utilize the continuous flow of dissolved minerals emerging from the vents. Hydrothermal vents are rich surces of iron, gold, silver, copper, zinc, cadmium, manganese, sulfer, etc. These minerals present in the water could be transported to a ship for later extraction or processing.
There are several potential failings in these systems; the most apparent is the cost of such an apparatus. Hydrothermal vents have a relatively short lifespan. Moving a mineral/heat collecting apparatus every few decades might be problematic in the long run. Nevertheless, research into potential methods of hydrothermal energy generation are promising.