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Monitoring Pedogenic Inorganic Carbon Accumulation Due to Weathering of Amended Silicate Minerals in Agricultural Soils.
Published on: June 4, 2021
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Targeted Permeability Control in the Subsurface via Calcium Silicate Carbonation.
Dan A Plattenberger1, Florence T Ling2, Catherine A Peters2
1Engineering Systems and Environment , University of Virginia , Charlottesville , Virginia 22904 , United States.
Environmental Science & Technology
|May 29, 2019
Summary
Calcium silicate carbonation creates stable crystalline calcium silicate hydrates (CCSHs) that effectively block fluid flow in subsurface energy and carbon storage. These CCSHs offer superior permeability control compared to traditional carbonate precipitates.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Materials Science
- Subsurface Engineering
Background:
- Controlling fluid migration is crucial for subsurface energy and carbon storage technologies.
- Novel materials are needed to enhance the safety and efficiency of these applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of calcium silicate carbonation for creating stable, permeability-reducing precipitates.
- To compare the efficacy of crystalline calcium silicate hydrates (CCSHs) with carbonate precipitates for fluid flow control.
Main Methods:
- High-pressure (1.1-15.5 MPa) column and batch experiments were performed at temperatures ranging from 75-150 °C.
- Reaction products were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and synchrotron micro X-ray Diffraction and X-ray Fluorescence (μXRD and μXRF).
Main Results:
- Pseudowollastonite (CaSiO3) reacted with CO2 to form CCSHs, significantly reducing porous media permeability.
- CCSH precipitation occurred preferentially on grain surfaces and in pore throats, effectively blocking flow.
- CCSHs demonstrated greater stability under low pH conditions compared to carbonate precipitates.
Conclusions:
- Calcium silicate carbonation offers a promising method for developing stable, effective seals in subsurface applications.
- CCSHs provide superior permeability control due to their unique precipitation characteristics and enhanced stability, outperforming traditional carbonates.
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