Using reservoir architecture to maximize CO2 storage capacity

This paper examines, with reservoir simulation, the impact of applying "best practices" and capitalizing on reservoir architecture to restrict CO2 plume movement and maximize reservoir storage capacity. Specifically, the paper explores the value gained from using horizontal CO2 injection wells and taking advantage of any existing shale "baffles" in conjunction with other reservoir characteristics that influence flow such as capillary pressure, pore volume trapping, and CO2 dissolution. Recent geologic and reservoir data collected from the Tuscaloosa Formation at the Mississippi Test Site (a Southeastern Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership CO2 sequestration pilot test) will be used as the case study for evaluating alternative CO2 injection and storage engineering concepts. The Tuscaloosa Formation is a thick, porous, permeable, regionally extensive saline reservoir occurring throughout the Gulf Coast and is considered a high priority setting for large-scale CO2 storage. (C) 2008 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved