Pore Scale Numerical Modelling of Geological Carbon Storage Through Mineral Trapping Using True Pore Geometries

Abstract

Abstract Mineral trapping (MT)is the most secure method of sequestering carbon for geologically significant periods of time. The processes behind MT fundamentally occur at the pore scale, therefore understanding which factors control MT at this scale is crucial. We present a finite elements advection–diffusion–reaction numerical model which uses true pore geometry model domains generated from $$\upmu$$ μ CT imaging. Using this model, we investigate the impact of pore geometry features such as branching, tortuosity and throat radii on the distribution and occurrence of carbonate precipitation in different pore networks over 2000 year simulated periods. We find evidence that a greater tortuosity, greater degree of branching of a pore network and narrower pore throats are detrimental to MT and contribute to the risk of clogging and reduction of connected porosity. We suggest that a tortuosity of less than 2 is critical in promoting greater precipitation per unit volume and should be considered alongside porosity and permeability when assessing reservoirs for geological carbon storage (GCS). We also show that the dominant influence on precipitated mass is the Damköhler number, or reaction rate, rather than the availability of reactive minerals, suggesting that this should be the focus when engineering effective subsurface carbon storage reservoirs for long term security. Article Highlights The rate of reaction has a stronger influence on mineral precipitation than the amount of available reactant. In a fully connected pore network preferential flow pathways still form which results in uneven precipitate distribution. A pore network tortuosity of <2 is recommended to facilitate greater carbon mineralisation.