[CCoE Notice] Thesis Announcement: Zhan Manap, "Carbon Dioxide Leakage from CO2 Disposal Aquifers"

[Greenwell, Stephen J]

[cid:image001.png at 01DB9E4E.72676CE0]
Carbon Dioxide Leakage from CO2 Disposal Aquifers
Zhan Manap
April 7, 2025; 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (CST)
Location: Room 124; Tech Bridge Bldg. 9

Zoom Meeting Link<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://zoom.us/j/96531622478?pwd=9eMqm8A4JgLpEXCze1BK7nOc2dqyKF.1__;!!LkSTlj0I!FWT-aEEzlK8DXLLdMgylW0UXf47iGEmLHqZBwOagqA5fUTV_-F0kqVtdOPJJeZBqlWqmP8f1nH-YcJ4gx6erJ8kqM9k$ >
Meeting ID: 965 3162 2478
Passcode: Tmfv13

Committee Chair:
S. M. Farouq Ali, Ph.D. | Guan Qin, Ph.D.
Committee Members:
Kyung Jae Lee, Ph.D. | James J. Sheng, Ph.D.


Abstract

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a critical technology for reducing atmospheric CO₂ emissions by storing CO₂ in deep disposal aquifers. However, the long-term effectiveness of CCS remains uncertain due to the potential for CO₂ leakage through low permeability cap rock, faults, and abandoned wells. This study investigates the risks associated with CO₂ leakage from disposal aquifers over extended periods based on numerical simulations using tNavigator.

A three-dimensional geological model was developed with realistic reservoir properties, including permeability, porosity, and cap rock integrity. The simulations examined various leakage pathways: (1) through low permeability cap rock, (2) via faulted reservoirs, and (3) through abandoned wells. CO₂ plume migration, pressure evolution, and trapping mechanisms-including structural, residual, solubility, and mineral trapping-were analyzed over a 1,000-year monitoring period.

The results indicate that although the cap rock initially acts as a containment barrier, gradual leakage occurs over extended time periods. Faults, even with low permeability, act as conduits for CO₂ migration, significantly increasing leakage risks. The most severe leakage occurs through abandoned wells, where CO₂ escapes directly into overlying formations, emphasizing the importance of proper well sealing and monitoring. Additionally, pH variations and gas saturation maps highlight regions of CO₂ accumulation and potential environmental impact.

These findings challenge the assumption that CCS provides completely secure carbon storage. They underscore the necessity for robust site selection, continuous monitoring, and adaptive risk management strategies to minimize leakage risk.

[Engineered For What's Next]

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