In a significant advancement for the energy sector, Yanchang Petroleum has unveiled a pioneering approach to carbon capture and storage (CCUS) that could redefine the coal chemical industry. The innovative integration of CO2 capture techniques with oil reservoir storage not only promises to reduce carbon emissions but also enhances crude oil production. This dual benefit positions Yanchang Petroleum at the forefront of low-carbon development strategies.
Xiangzeng Wang, a leading researcher at the Shaanxi Key Laboratory of CO2 Sequestration and Enhanced Oil Recovery, emphasizes the importance of this research in the context of global energy challenges. “Our work demonstrates that it is possible to achieve clean utilization of coal while simultaneously contributing to carbon reduction efforts,” Wang stated. The research showcases a low-temperature methanol washing method for CO2 capture, which has achieved a cost-effective capture rate of 105 yuan per ton, with a demonstration scale of 300,000 tons per year.
The findings reveal that the theoretical CO2 storage capacity of the oilfield is an impressive 884 million tons, with the most suitable storage areas identified primarily in the western regions of the field. Wang notes, “The evolution of CO2 storage states over time shows promising results, indicating a robust framework for long-term carbon storage.” The study provides a detailed analysis of how CO2 can be effectively trapped in various forms—structural, residual, solubility, and mineral trapping—over different time scales, enhancing the reliability of these storage methods.
Moreover, the research introduces comprehensive sealing evaluation methods for caprocks, with the Chang 4+5 cap layer in the Huaziping CO2 sequestration test area classified as types I and II, denoting strong sealing capabilities. This is critical for ensuring that the stored CO2 remains securely contained, thus minimizing the risk of geological leakage. Wang explains, “Our safety monitoring system has confirmed that there is no CO2 leakage in our test area, achieving a safety level classified as I. This is a significant milestone for the industry.”
The implications of this research extend beyond environmental benefits; they offer a promising commercial pathway for the energy sector. By transforming CO2 from a waste product into a resource, Yanchang Petroleum not only enhances its operational efficiency but also aligns with global sustainability goals. The successful implementation of this CCUS technology could serve as a model for other coal-dependent regions, potentially reshaping energy practices worldwide.
Published in ‘Meitan kexue jishu’ (Journal of Coal Science and Technology), this research sets a precedent for integrating carbon management strategies into traditional energy practices. As the industry grapples with the pressing need for sustainable solutions, Yanchang Petroleum’s approach may well illuminate the path forward, marrying economic viability with environmental responsibility.
For further insights into this groundbreaking work, visit the Shaanxi Key Laboratory of CO2 Sequestration and Enhanced Oil Recovery at lead_author_affiliation.
