Friedmann, S. Julio1, Dag Nummedal2, Vicki Stamp3,
Mark Milliken4
(1) University of Maryland, College Park, MD
(2) University of Wyoming, P.O. Box 4068 Laramie, WY
(3) Rocky Mountain Oilfield Testing Center, Casper, WY
(4) Critique, Inc, Casper, WY
ABSTRACT: CO2 Leakage Risks at a National Carbon Storage Test Center, Teapot Dome, Wyoming
Geological storage of anthropogenic point source CO2 is an increasingly
important strategy for mitigation of greenhouse-gas emissions. A chief concern involves
the risk of CO2 leakage through permeable fast paths, including pre-existing
wells, leaky faults, and stratigraphic thief zones. Large-scale projects (>500 tons
injected CO2/day) are needed to properly assess these risks, as well as
detailed geological maps and reservoir models for target intervals. Leakage risk
characterization is critical for accurate leak predictions, monitoring, verification, and
public safety concerns.
To this end, we have assessed the CO2 leakage risks at Teapot Dome (Naval
Petroleum Reserve 3), recently designated as a national geological carbon storage test
center. The field was initially discovered in part with surface oil seeps, and as such has
demonstrated leak potential. In preparation for injection of CO2 from nearby
EOR pipelines, we have mapped several key target intervals using 2000 vintage 3D seismic
data, recent production data from water floods, and outcrop & subsurface fracture
studies. These are tied to the seeps within this new geological framework. Standard
fault-seal methods serve as a key component or risking, as do in-situ stress determination
and accurate mapping. This work serves as the basis for quantitative leakage risking for
target reservoirs along various fault networks, fracture trends, and stratigraphic thief
zones, leading to a predictive framework for leakage. The actual leakage prediction model
will be tested upon injection using both geochemical and geophysical techniques tailored
to the geological results. Future projects aimed at scientific characterization and
mitigation of leakage will flow from the new leak framework.
AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90026©2004 AAPG Annual Meeting, Dallas, Texas, April 18-21, 2004.