Carbon Storage in Saline Aquifer | My blog

Carbon Storage in Saline Aquifer

2024/08/01

This post summaries the key points of the article EXPLORING SAFE DISPOSAL OF CO2 AND WASTEWATER IN SALINE AQUIFER, which has been published by authors on the Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 170 (2018) 197-205.

Objective:

The safe disposal of CO₂ and wastewater in saline aquifers is a critical challenge in both carbon sequestration and oil and gas operations. Our study presents a systematic approach to monitoring injection-well performance using real-time diagnostics and probabilistic modeling. The modified-Hall analysis proved essential for detecting abnormal injection behavior, enabling safe disposal practices. Key factors influencing injection efficiency include aquifer heterogeneity, rock compressibility, and fracture gradient. We found that safe pore-volume injection in saline aquifers is approximately 1.6% for wastewater and 1.5% for CO₂, with an 80% probability. Additionally, CO₂ trapping mechanisms such as residual and solubility trapping were analyzed, highlighting the role of critical gas saturation and brine salinity in storage efficiency. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing injection operations and ensuring environmental safety.

Methodology:

Utilized probabilistic modeling and modified-Hall analysis to assess injection performance and detect abnormalities.

Key Findings:

  • Safe pore-volume injection is 1.6% for wastewater and 1.5% for CO₂ at 80% probability.
  • Fracture gradient, rock compressibility, and porosity are major factors influencing safe injection limits.
  • Modified-Hall analysis is an effective real-time diagnostic tool for identifying injection issues.
  • Residual and solubility trapping are the dominant CO₂ storage mechanisms, with critical gas saturation affecting residual trapping and brine salinity influencing solubility.
  • Practical Implications: Real-time monitoring helps optimize disposal operations while maintaining environmental and reservoir integrity

    • 💡 Cite my publication:
    Tien Phan, Maulin Gogri, Shah Kabir, Zulfiquar Reza. EXPLORING SAFE DISPOSAL OF CO2 AND WASTEWATER IN SALINE AQUIFER. J. Petrol. Science and Engineering 170 (2018) 197-205.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.petrol.2018.06.065