A recent study published in the Swiss Journal of Geosciences has cast a shadow on the prospects of underground carbon dioxide (CO2) storage through in-situ mineralization in Switzerland. As the nation aims to meet its climate goals, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies are increasingly seen as essential tools. However, this research highlights significant geological and logistical challenges that could hinder the feasibility of such projects in the near future.
Lead author Adrian Martin from the Energy Science Center at ETH Zurich emphasizes the complexities involved in utilizing Switzerland’s geological formations for CO2 storage. “While the alpine tectonic units contain large volumes of mafic and ultramafic rocks that are theoretically suitable for mineralization, the reality is far more complicated,” Martin states. The study reveals that the alpine formations are characterized by intricate structures and a mix of rock types, leading to low permeability and porosity. These geological barriers impede both the injectivity of CO2 and the kinetics of mineralization, particularly in the context of Switzerland’s low average geothermal gradient.
The implications of this research extend beyond geology; they touch on the commercial viability of CCS technologies in the energy sector. With Switzerland’s ambitions to store residual CO2 emissions domestically, the findings raise crucial questions about the long-term viability of such initiatives. Martin notes, “The challenges we identified—ranging from geological limitations to social acceptance—suggest that in-situ mineralization may not only be unfeasible in the short term but could also be unsuitable in the long run.”
Furthermore, the study highlights additional hurdles, including water resource requirements, site accessibility, financial costs, and regulatory issues. As companies and governments invest in CCS technologies, understanding these barriers is essential for shaping future developments. The energy sector may need to pivot towards alternative strategies or technologies that can more effectively address the dual challenge of reducing emissions while ensuring economic viability.
The findings of this research not only contribute to the scientific understanding of CO2 sequestration but also serve as a cautionary tale for stakeholders in the energy sector. As the global community strives for sustainability, the lessons learned from Switzerland’s geological landscape could inform similar efforts worldwide, ensuring that investments in CCS technologies are grounded in realistic assessments of their potential.
For further insights into this critical research, you can visit the Energy Science Center at ETH Zurich at lead_author_affiliation.
