CO₂ subsurface mineral storage by its co-injection with recirculating water

Area of Science:

• Geochemistry
• Environmental Science
• Geology

Background:

• Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is crucial for meeting CO2 reduction targets.
• Mineralization of CO2 in mafic/ultramafic rocks is a CCS strategy, but faces deployment challenges.
• Geologic environments dictate CCS approaches; some lack caprocks suitable for traditional CO2 injection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a carbon disposal solution for arid regions with limited water resources.
• To assess the feasibility of carbon mineral storage in western Saudi Arabia.
• To address CO2 emissions from petroleum refining and desalination facilities.

Main Methods:

• An industrial-scale pilot project was conducted in western Saudi Arabia.
• CO2 injection utilizing subsurface fluid recirculation was employed.
• The study focused on CO2 mineralization reactions with silicate rocks.

Main Results:

• The recirculation of subsurface fluids eliminated the need for external water.
• Carbon mineral storage was demonstrated as feasible in an arid environment.
• The approach is suitable for regions lacking saline aquifers and sedimentary traps.

Conclusions:

• Carbon mineral storage is viable in water-limited regions.
• Subsurface fluid recirculation is an effective method for large-scale CCS.
• This technology can help mitigate CO2 emissions from industrial sources in arid areas.