In a significant advancement for the field of geological carbon storage, researchers have unveiled new methods to enhance the accuracy of rock property distributions in the near well-bore region. This research, led by Seyed Ahmad Mortazavi from the School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Melbourne, demonstrates how improved modeling techniques can have profound implications for the energy sector, particularly in the context of carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiatives.
The study, published in ‘Frontiers in Earth Science’, highlights the critical role that cm-scale rock properties play in geological carbon storage, particularly in enhancing capillary and mineral trapping of CO2. Mortazavi’s team focused on the Paaratte Formation in the Otway Basin, Australia, a region characterized by its complex lithological heterogeneity. This complexity poses challenges for traditional geological modeling workflows, which often fail to capture the variability of rock properties close to CO2 injection wells.
“By utilizing smaller grid cell sizes and incorporating stochastic seismic inversion techniques, we can significantly enhance the representation of rock properties in our models,” Mortazavi explained. The research found that reducing the grid cell size from the industry standard of 10 m × 10 m × 2 m to a much finer resolution of 1 m × 1 m × 0.3 m leads to a marked improvement in the accuracy of geological models. This finer resolution allows for a more nuanced understanding of the subsurface, which is essential for effective CO2 storage.
Moreover, the study revealed that the strategic placement of an additional well just 116 meters from the CO2 injection site could drastically improve the probability of accurately predicting the distribution of cm-scale rock properties. This finding emphasizes the importance of well placement in optimizing carbon storage operations, potentially enabling energy companies to enhance their CCS efforts significantly.
As the energy sector increasingly focuses on reducing carbon emissions, the insights from Mortazavi’s research could shape the future of geological modeling and carbon storage strategies. “Our work not only contributes to the scientific community but also provides practical solutions that can be implemented in pilot-scale carbon storage operations,” he noted. The ability to predict how CO2 will behave in various geological formations is crucial for the successful implementation of CCS technologies, which are essential for meeting global climate targets.
By improving the understanding of subsurface conditions, this research could facilitate more efficient and reliable carbon storage, ultimately helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The findings underscore the need for continued innovation in geological modeling and the importance of integrating advanced techniques into energy sector practices. As industries look for sustainable solutions, studies like Mortazavi’s are paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally responsible future in energy.
