From theory to practice: Study demonstrates high CO2 storage efficiency in shale reservoirs using fracturing technology

A new study published in Engineering unveils the remarkable carbon storage potential of shale reservoirs utilizing CO₂ fracturing technology. Conducted by a collaborative team from the PetroChina Research Institute of Petroleum Exploration and Development (Beijing), the National Key Laboratory of Continental Shale Oil (Daqing), and China University of Petroleum (Beijing), the research signifies a pivotal advancement in China’s pursuit of energy independence and carbon neutrality.

Shale reservoirs play a crucial role in China’s energy landscape, and the utilization of CO₂ fracturing offers a dual benefit: not only enhance oil recovery but also promote large amounts of CO₂ storage. The study, titled “Carbon Storage Potential of Shale Reservoirs Based on CO₂ Fracturing Technology,” delves into the intricate dynamics of CO₂ storage mechanisms within shale formations, utilizing real exploitation parameters from the GYYP1 well in the Songliao Basin.

Through sophisticated numerical simulations, the researchers uncovered the pivotal role of adsorption and diffusion in CO₂ storage within shale reservoirs. Initial findings revealed that approximately 22.13% of CO₂ was adsorbed during the fracturing process, with diffusion further augmenting CO₂ interaction with the shale rock over time. This synergistic effect resulted in a remarkable 26.02% increase in CO₂ adsorption, ensuring long-term and stable storage within the reservoir.

Key conclusions from the study demonstrate an impressive CO₂ storage efficiency of 80.15% over a decade, showcasing the substantial potential of CO₂ fracturing technology. Notably, the research highlights the concentration of absorbed CO₂ around the horizontal well, underscoring the importance of diffusion in maximizing storage capabilities.

Moreover, extrapolations based on the GYYP1 well data project that approximately 1000 future wells in Gulong shale oil reservoirs could harness similar storage potential, amounting to nearly two million tons of stored CO₂ by 2030. Such achievements hold significant promise for advancing energy security and aligning with China’s dual carbon goals of achieving a carbon peak and carbon neutrality.

This research sheds light on the immense potential of CO₂ fracturing technology in not only enhancing oil recovery but also mitigating carbon emissions. By leveraging the natural storage capabilities of shale reservoirs, we can make substantial strides towards a more sustainable energy future.

This pioneering research underscores the importance of continued innovation in energy technologies and sets a compelling precedent for future developments in CO₂ fracturing methodologies. As China intensifies efforts towards carbon neutrality, initiatives such as this play a pivotal role in shaping a greener and more sustainable future.

The paper “Carbon Storage Potential of Shale Reservoirs Based on CO₂ Fracturing Technology,” authored by Siwei Meng, Fengyuan Zhang, Jiaping Tao, Xu Jin, Jianchun Xu, He Liu. Full text of the open access paper: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eng.2023.11.018. For more information about the Engineering, follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/EngineeringJrnl) & like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/EngineeringJrnl).