In the heart of China, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we think about carbon capture and storage (CCS), particularly in challenging geological formations. Led by Yu Mou of the China National Logging Corporation in Xi’an, this research is set to influence the future of geologic CO2 sequestration, with significant implications for the energy sector.
The Ordos Basin, a vast sedimentary basin in northern China, is the stage for this innovative work. The region is known for its low-porosity and low-permeability saline aquifers, which have long been considered less suitable for CO2 sequestration due to their poor injectivity. However, Mou and his team are challenging this notion, demonstrating that these aquifers could play a crucial role in achieving China’s carbon neutrality goals.
The study, published in the journal ‘Meitian dizhi yu kantan’ (translated as ‘Petroleum Geology and Engineering’) focuses on developing an assessment indicator system for siting geologic CO2 sequestration in these challenging formations. “Our goal was to create a comprehensive, quantitative evaluation system that considers the unique characteristics of low-porosity, low-permeability reservoirs,” Mou explains. The system consists of three main indicators: geologic sequestration conditions, sequestration capacity, and socio-environmental conditions. Each of these is further broken down into more specific factors, providing a detailed and nuanced assessment of a site’s suitability for CO2 sequestration.
One of the key aspects of this research is its focus on the injectivity of these low-porosity, low-permeability reservoirs. Traditional assessment methods often overlook these factors, but Mou’s work highlights their importance. “By understanding and quantifying these factors, we can better predict the injectivity of CO2 into these reservoirs, making them a more viable option for sequestration,” Mou says.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are significant. As countries around the world strive to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, the demand for effective CCS technologies is growing. This study provides a roadmap for evaluating and utilizing low-porosity, low-permeability saline aquifers, potentially opening up new opportunities for CO2 sequestration.
Moreover, the quantitative evaluation system developed by Mou and his team could be applied to other regions with similar geological features, making it a valuable tool for the global energy industry. As Mou puts it, “Our hope is that this work will not only advance the field of geologic CO2 sequestration but also contribute to the broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality.”
The energy sector is at a crossroads, with the need to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. This research offers a promising path forward, demonstrating how innovative thinking and technological advancements can help us meet our climate goals. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, studies like this one will be instrumental in shaping a more sustainable future.
