--> Abstract: Using a Petroleum System Approach for Evaluation of CO2 Sequestration Potential in Saline Reservoirs, by Hannes E. Leetaru, David G. Morse, Scott M. Frailey, and John McBride; #90078 (2008)

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Using a Petroleum System Approach for Evaluation of CO2 Sequestration Potential in Saline Reservoirs

Hannes E. Leetaru1, David G. Morse1, Scott M. Frailey1, and John McBride2
1Illinois State Geological Survey, Champaign, IL
2Brigham Young University, Provo, UT

Evaluation of the CO2 sequestration potential of a saline reservoir would benefit from methodologies developed to analyze a petroleum system. Petroleum system analysis emphasizes the importance of the: 1) seal, 2) trapping mechanism, 3) overburden, 4) reservoir rock, 5) source, 6) preservation, and 7) critical moment. This type of systematic approach is readily modified for analysis of the sequestration potential of a formation or region. The key differences in analytical methodologies are that: the source would refer to the surface potential of the site, preservation is the length of time CO2 would be sequestered, and critical moment is the time sequestration starts.

The Cambrian Mt. Simon sandstone of the Illinois Basin is used to illustrate how this approach could be used to define the sequestration fairway. For example, Mt. Simon reservoir suitability is constrained by amount of overburden, depositional system, and the Precambrian topography. Sequestration traps may not necessarily be defined by structural or stratigraphic traps, but instead may also be found in areas of low structural dip and high reservoir preservation potential. The preservation potential of the reservoir is controlled by water salinity, reservoir heterogeneity, and lithology. The critical moment or first injection of CO2 may become important when multiple injection sites in a basin become operational. Finally, the surface conditions, such as urban areas and water bodies may limit the location of CO2 sources. These examples from the Mt. Simon demonstrate an orderly approach to examining all pertinent data that should be considered when evaluating an individual site or a formation for its sequestration potential.

 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90078©2008 AAPG Annual Convention, San Antonio, Texas