CO<sub>2</sub> Sequestration in a Carbonate Saline Aquifer: An Investigation into the Roles of Natural Fractures and Well Placement
CO<sub>2</sub> sequestration is considered one of the main pillars in achieving the ongoing decarbonization efforts. A myriad of CO<sub>2</sub> sequestration projects targeted sandstone reservoirs since carbonate reservoirs appeared to be unpropitious due to their geological...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Energies |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/18/2/242 |
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| Summary: | CO<sub>2</sub> sequestration is considered one of the main pillars in achieving the ongoing decarbonization efforts. A myriad of CO<sub>2</sub> sequestration projects targeted sandstone reservoirs since carbonate reservoirs appeared to be unpropitious due to their geological complexity and unfavorable mineralogy and properties. This study investigates CO<sub>2</sub> sequestration potential in a carbonate saline aquifer while considering various geological complexities by capitalizing on numerical simulation. A synthetic anticline reservoir model examined the optimum well location and landing zone for CO<sub>2</sub> sequestration. Additionally, the model evaluated the role of natural fractures in the migration path of CO<sub>2</sub> plume and geochemical reactions throughout the storage process. The study demonstrates that placing the injection well away from the top of the structure in a low-dip region while injecting in the bottom interval would yield the optimum design. After applying a plethora of analyses, geological complexity could impede the migration path of CO<sub>2</sub> but eventually produce a similar path when injected in a similar region. The geochemical interactions between the injected CO<sub>2</sub> and reservoir fluids and minerals reduce the free and trapped CO<sub>2</sub> quantities by dissolving calcite and precipitating dolomite. Furthermore, natural fractures impact the CO<sub>2</sub> quantities during early times only when the fractures cross the top layers. Similarly, the CO<sub>2</sub> migration differs due to the higher permeability within the fractures, resulting in slightly different CO<sub>2</sub> plumes. Consequently, the role of natural fractures should be limited in carbon storage projects, specifically if they do not cross the top of the reservoir. This study reflects a unique perspective on sequestering CO<sub>2</sub> while capturing the roles of natural fractures and well placement in depicting the migration path of the CO<sub>2</sub> plume. A similar systematic workflow and holistic approach can be utilized to optimize the subsurface storage process for potential formations. |
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| ISSN: | 1996-1073 |