Title: Advancing Large-Scale Geological Carbon Sequestration in Colorado
Abstract: Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration (CCUS) represents a critical strategy in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and confronting the pressing threat of climate change; however, the accuracy of preliminary estimates, such as over 2400 billion metric tons of theoretical CO2 storage capacity in North America, remains a topic of debate. Precisely assessing CO2 storage capacity and the urgency for launching pilot CCUS initiatives present substantial challenges in scaling up geological carbon sequestration for commercial use. This research focuses on CO2 storage capacity estimation in Colorado in both saline aquifers and oil/gas reservoirs using a volumetric-based approach. By integrating seismic, well logs, core data, and fluid properties, comprehensive 3D geologic models and coupled flow-geomechanical simulation models are constructed to assess a prospective storage location within deep saline aquifers in South Colorado, optimally located proximate to major CO2 emission hubs. The simulation outcomes offer valuable insights for guiding upcoming injection plans, aiming at the secure containment of at least 50 million metric tons of CO2 within 30 years. This pioneering research serves as the foundation for the first CCUS demonstration project in Colorado as part of the DOE’s CarbonSAFE Phase III award.
Zoom Link: https://gatech.zoom.us/j/95963290955
Recording: Zoom Recording