Decarbonization

Controlled-Source Electromagnetics Provide Promise for CCS Applications

This study assesses the advantages, constraints, and necessary enhancements of both passive and active electromagnetic techniques in the context of carbon capture and storage.

Fig. 1—Components of EM system showing data logger, electrodes, induction coils, and web access box.
Fig. 1—Components of EM system showing data logger, electrodes, induction coils, and web access box.
Source: SPE 225486.

An electromagnetic (EM) geophysical survey using controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) methods was conducted in North Dakota to evaluate its feasibility for monitoring subsurface CO2 fluid plumes. This study assesses the advantages, constraints, and necessary enhancements of both passive and active EM techniques in the context of carbon capture and storage (CCS). Surface log-scale resolution was successfully achieved, demonstrating the method’s capability to delineate fluid-plume boundaries and estimate fluid volumes with high accuracy.

CSEM Background

CSEM methods are increasingly recognized for their ability to detect subtle electrical resistivity contrasts associated with subsurface fluid movements. Accurate and efficient monitoring of CO2 injection plumes is particularly crucial for ensuring operational integrity, safety, and environmental compliance in CCS projects. Inherent resolution limitations of surface-based EM methods, however, necessitate integrating supplemental borehole log data for accurate interpretation.

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