Numerical Modeling of CO2, Injection and Carbon Sequestration Strategies in Shale Gas Reservoirs

Shale gas reservoirs present a significant opportunity for sustainable energy production, but their low permeability limits methane recovery. This project explores CO₂ Huff-n-Puff and/or Continuous Injection as enhanced gas recovery (EGR) techniques to increase methane production while simultaneously storing CO₂. As global pilot projects and lab-scale studies on CO₂-based EGR in shale, understanding the feasibility and optimization of such techniques for commercial applications is critical. 

Despite the promise of dual-purpose CO₂ injection, key uncertainties include reservoir response to CO₂ injection, optimal injection rates and well placement, CO₂ breakthrough risks, long-term sequestration potential, economic feasibility, and scalability from pilot to commercial applications. Many existing studies focus on small-scale experiments without fully addressing the scalability and long-term storage potential in commercial reservoirs. This project aims to bridge this research gap by developing a numerical model to simulate different CO₂ injection scenarios and evaluate their impact on production efficiency, CO₂ sequestration, and financial feasibility. 

The primary objectives are to determine the optimal number and placement of injection and production wells, assess CO₂ injection volumes and rates, and predict the extent of CO₂ retention in shale formations. Key research questions include: How much CO₂ is needed for effective recovery? What is the trade-off between methane production and CO₂ storage? Will commercial-scale implementation be viable?

A reservoir simulation approach will be used to test various injection strategies. Sensitivity analysis will be conducted on well configurations, injection cycles, and CO2 amount injected to identify the most effective recovery and storage strategy. 

This project’s findings will contribute to the growing global effort to develop sustainable shale gas recovery while aligning with carbon management goals. The innovative aspect lies in integrating CO₂-based EGR with sequestration modeling to provide a practical framework for commercial deployment in emerging shale gas markets.

Project Details

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