In the heart of the Pearl River estuary basin, a groundbreaking application of technology is reshaping the future of carbon capture and storage (CCS). The E15 oilfield, a critical asset for China National Offshore Oil (CNOOC), has become the testing ground for a novel approach that could revolutionize how the energy sector tackles carbon emissions. This innovative method, known as formation sampling while drilling, is being pioneered by WEI Xian, a researcher at the Shenzhen Branch of CNOOC.
The challenge was clear: how to effectively reinject carbon dioxide (CO2) into the water formations of the E15 oilfield, a process crucial for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing operational efficiency. Traditional methods often fall short in providing the precise data needed for optimal reinjection. However, WEI Xian and his team saw an opportunity to leverage advanced drilling technologies to gather high-precision data, paving the way for more accurate and efficient CO2 reinjection.
“We needed a way to ensure that the CO2 we were reinjecting would stay where we put it,” WEI Xian explained. “The key was to use the drilling process itself to collect the data we needed. This approach not only saves time but also provides a more comprehensive understanding of the reservoir conditions.”
The team employed a targeted pressure test depth design, selecting sampling stations based on real-time pressure test results. This method allowed them to collect high-purity CO2 gas samples and water samples directly from the production and reinjection formations. The data obtained was instrumental in determining the gas-oil contact of the reservoir and evaluating the physical properties of the reinjection water layer.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By using formation sampling while drilling, energy companies can achieve more precise and efficient carbon capture and storage, a critical component in the global push towards carbon neutrality. This technology could significantly reduce the costs associated with CCS projects, making them more viable for widespread adoption.
“The results we’ve seen so far are incredibly promising,” WEI Xian added. “This technology has the potential to transform how we approach carbon management in the energy sector. It’s not just about reducing emissions; it’s about doing so in a way that is economically sustainable.”
The study, published in ‘Cejing jishu’ (which translates to ‘Petroleum Drilling Techniques’) highlights the potential of this technology to shape future developments in the field of carbon capture and storage. As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like formation sampling while drilling will play a crucial role in achieving a more sustainable and efficient future. This research marks a significant step forward in the quest for carbon neutrality, offering a glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead for the energy industry.