Recent research published in the journal Engineering has highlighted the potential of underground salt cavern carbon dioxide storage (SCCS) as a promising solution for large-scale CO2 management in China. Led by Wei Liu from the State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control at Chongqing University, this study explores the operational and economic advantages of SCCS over traditional carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) methods.
SCCS offers a dual benefit: it not only enables extensive storage of CO2 but also facilitates the utilization of CO2 resources, thereby contributing to the regulation of the carbon market. This makes SCCS a more cost-effective and flexible option for industries looking to mitigate their carbon footprints. Liu notes, “The unique phase change characteristics of CO2 require targeted scientific research to ensure effective storage and stability.”
The research emphasizes key operational features of SCCS, including its gas-tightness and the management of brine extraction during carbon injection. By establishing a pressure equation that accounts for the specific behaviors of CO2, the study provides insights into the operational dynamics of SCCS. It also compares the viscosities of CO2 with other gases, demonstrating SCCS’s strong sealing performance, which is crucial for long-term stability.
Commercially, the findings suggest that utilizing abandoned salt caverns for CO2 storage could significantly impact various sectors, particularly in energy and manufacturing. The study estimates that China could potentially achieve a carbon storage scale of over 51.8 to 77.7 million tons by using only 20% to 30% of the volume of these caverns. This presents a substantial opportunity for companies in the energy sector to invest in SCCS projects, aligning with global carbon-neutrality goals.
Liu’s research also identifies preliminary salt mine sites in China that are suitable for SCCS, along with essential technical parameters such as operating pressure and burial depth. This guidance is critical for stakeholders looking to implement SCCS projects effectively.
As industries face increasing pressure to reduce emissions, SCCS could serve as a key component of their sustainability strategies. The findings from this research not only pave the way for innovative CO2 management solutions but also position China as a potential leader in the development of large-scale carbon storage technologies.
