Enhanced Monitoring of Geologic Carbon Sequestration Using 3-D Passive Microseismic Location Techniques

Department of Energy scientists and U.S. policy makers have identified the potential benefit of sequestering large quantities of greenhouse gases (primarily carbon dioxide, CO2) from the Earth¿s atmosphere into subsurface carbon reservoirs. However, the storage process must be carefully monitored to ensure that the CO2 is not released back to the atmosphere. Successful, cost-effective monitoring technologies are necessary keys to establishing the viability and safety of long-term geo-sequestration efforts. This project will adapt and apply a powerful three-dimensional location technique to passively monitor the movement of sequestered CO2 in geological formations. Phase I will demonstrate the technique¿s capabilities to accurately monitor the micro-seismicity that occurs in shallow underground reservoirs, such as those proposed for carbon sequestration. Phase II will conduct a field test of the technique, using a combination of surface and borehole sensors, at an appropriate monitoring site. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new technique should find application in the monitoring of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) efforts, in underground facility characterization, and in the monitoring of mining micro-seismicity.