Carbon dioxide capture and storage in deep geologic formations has quickly emerged as one of the most promising options for reducing carbon dioxide emissions from combustion of fossil fuels.  Potential storage formations include depleted oil and gas reservoirs, deep salt-water filled formations (saline formations), and unminable coal beds.  This study focuses on developing fundamental knowledge needed to ensure successful storage in saline formations and hydrocarbon reservoirs.  Topics of this study will include the following:

(1)  Performance prediction for underground fate and transport of CO₂
(2)  Measurement and monitoring techniques to verify storage and track migration of CO₂
(3)  Fundamental geochemical and hydrological investigations of CO₂ Storage

The approach will include a combination of theoretical investigations, computer simulation, laboratory experiments, and field studies.  Where appropriate, the applicability of these results to other types of storage formations will be identified.

Task 1. Performance prediction for underground fate and transport of CO₂.
Task 2. Measurement and monitoring techniques to verify storage and track migration of CO₂.
Task 3. Fundamental geochemical and hydrological investigations of CO₂ storage.