A flow-through, elevated-temperature and -pressure NMR apparatus for in-situ CO₂ sequestration studies

We report an apparatus for in-situ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies of chemical reactions of dissolved ¹³CO₂ with minerals (rock or powder) under continuous flow. The operating range of the apparatus is 18-150°C and 1-140bar. A flow pump is used to circulate a CO₂-water solution, with a heated mixing vessel where CO₂ gas equilibrates with a water solution. The NMR probe is built around a strong zirconia ceramic vessel, with o-ring sealed connections; the mineral is contained inside. The horizontal orientation of the zirconia vessels allows use of a radio frequency (rf) solenoid for improved spin sensitivity.