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Content archived on 2024-06-18

A multiple space and time scale approach for the quantification of deep saline formations for CO2 storage

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Storing CO2 in deep saline formations

Carbon capture and storage technologies are an important way to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from fossil fuel combustion by sequestering the greenhouse gas deep underground. This can be achieved by injecting and storing CO2 in permeable rock formations containing highly saline fluids known as deep saline aquifers.

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The EU-funded MUSTANG project conducted theoretical and lab investigations and field-scale injection tests to gain a greater understanding of the processes of CO2 spreading. Researchers used this knowledge to develop novel field investigation technologies to measure performance and risk and to develop related models and tools. Field investigation technologies included geoelectric and seismic monitoring techniques, tracer techniques, and instrumentation for injection/monitoring and related fluid sampling at depth. These techniques provided information about CO2 trapping mechanisms and the parameters on which they depend, as well as sensitivity of the measurable parameters to in situ conditions. At the end of its 5-year duration, the consortium of 29 institutions and over 20 organisations forming the Scientific, Industrial and Regulatory Advisory Board (SIRAB) completed data analysis from the 5 MUSTANG test sites. Scientists used the data to model CO2 storage and spreading at these locations under varying conditions. Results from site-specific models were used to determine site properties from injection tests. Improving understanding and assessment of risks provides an important impetus to enhanced public support and widespread adoption for major impact on CO2 emissions and global climate change. Therefore, MUSTANG proved a valuable asset in confidence building and providing independent research on behalf of industry, regulators and society at large. MUSTANG has made a significant contribution to European expertise in the field of CO2 storage. This expertise can be used by both the industrial and regulatory sectors, with applications in the oil and gas industry, environmental protection and water resource management. The project has also laid the foundations for a structure capable of delivering integrated solutions in the field of CO2 storage. These include design and planning expertise as well as a range of technologies developed under the auspices of MUSTANG.

Keywords

Deep saline formations, carbon capture and storage, carbon dioxide, injection test, CO2 storage

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