Underground Storage of CO2

Possible sites for storage of CO₂ include coalbeds, depleted gas and oil reservoirs, deep aquifers, salt domes, and ocean floors. The various storage options must be evaluated for cost, safety, and environmental effects. Storage of CO₂ in geologic formations appears to be the most promising long-term solution to stabilizing CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere. The main issues involved in the storage of CO₂ in geologic formations are CO₂ capture, transportation, and storage capacity, as well as containment of the geologic formation. In this respect, the petroleum industry is in a uniquely advantageous position because of its vast knowledge and long experience in the processing, transportation, and injection of gas—be it natural gas for sale or pressure maintenance, or CO₂ for enhanced-oil-recovery purposes. In addition, the petroleum industry has the large capital and management skills needed for the underground storage of CO₂.

This collection is based on the 2009 SPE Reprint Series, special thanks to Subhash Ayirala for suggesting new articles to help update the collection.

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