Integration of Biochar Injection Systems for Carbon Sequestration in Depleted Reservoirs

Abstract The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands among the foremost global exporters of petroleum, a position that has fueled its economic growth and heightened its profile in the international energy domain (Palhares, 2024). However, the large-scale production and consumption of hydrocarbons inevitably imposes significant environmental burdens, primarily in the form of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to global climate challenges (SPE, 2025). This paper proposes an innovative method for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) by injecting biochar a carbon-rich byproduct of biomass pyrolysis into depleted oil and gas reservoirs (AlDossary et al., 2024). The primary goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by harnessing stability, high carbon density, and porosity of biochar for long-term carbon sequestration, thereby reshaping industry practices through sustainable initiatives (Khanifar and Mousavimirkalaei, 2024). By evaluating design parameters including pyrolysis conditions, injection procedures, and real-time monitoring, this study explores the potential of biochar injections to securely lock carbon over extended timescales. Additionally, ancillary benefits such as enhanced oil recovery (EOR), reduced waste streams, and soil fertility improvements are discussed (Venkatesh, 2022). Laboratory and pilot-scale field tests underscore biochar’s stability in reservoir conditions and affirm its capacity for extended carbon retention (Hao et al., 2014). Biochar injection emerges as a strategic tool for mitigating GHG emissions, aligning seamlessly with the UAE’s larger vision for climate responsibility and sustainable resource management.