Pioneering CO2 Capture and Geological Storage Seal Integrity and Overburden Risk Assessment

Summary The successful sequestration of CO2 in geological formations hinges on injectivity, storage capacity, and containment integrity. In hydrocarbon-bearing fields, the overburden—often less studied than the reservoir itself—presents uncertainties and risks crucial for CO2 containment. This paper delves into the seal and overburden characteristics of a clastic reservoir system, targeting in-situ CO2 injection and storage as part of an advanced Storage Development Plan. Through comprehensive geological, seismic, and petrophysical evaluations, along with meticulous assessments of seal geometry, capacity, and integrity, the study unveils pivotal risks and underscores the necessity for enhanced data collection and analysis to fortify risk assessment. Pioneering in its global context, this research accentuates the imperative of rigorous subsurface risk analysis, ensuring the feasibility and reliability of in-situ CO2 storage strategies, thus contributing significantly to the refinement of geological sequestration as a viable climate mitigation technology.