Session 26. Oral Presentation for: Unmasking fault zones in CO2 storage – a true calibration

Presented on 29 May 2025: Session 26 The risk of fault leakage and understanding flow along and across fault planes is a core component of risk evaluation in geological carbon storage (GCS) projects. The Brumbys Fault, a shallow fault at the Otway International Test Centre, serves as a pivotal component in evaluating the implications of CO2 injection into faulted formations. A first-of-its-kind controlled CO2 injection experiment was conducted in April 2024 as part of the Otway Shallow Fault Project. Sixteen tonnes of CO2 was injected adjacent to the Brumbys Fault and closely monitored to observe the CO2 migration pathway. Although analysis of the collected data is still ongoing, the experiment has already provided valuable insights on CO2 migration in the presence of a fault zone. Focus is placed on providing a calibration point pivotal for quantifying the risk of fault leakage in future industrial-scale GCS projects. Initial findings from monitoring measurements and the history matching of injection data have already been leveraged to enhance understanding of potential risks in such environments. The study facilitates the comparison of forward models with real data measurements, empowering industry to make necessary adjustments in their risk evaluation processes. This research sheds light on the complexities of CO2 injection in faulted geological formations and underscores the critical role of precise risk assessment in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of such operations. The study’s findings provide significant contributions to the understanding of fault leakage risks and offers essential guidance for future GCS projects navigating similar challenges. To access the Oral Presentation click the link below. To read the full paper click here