Selecting Geological Formations for CO2 Storage: A Comparative Rating System

Abstract

Underground storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) in geological formations plays a vital role in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. It involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes and power generation and storing them underground, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and curbing the impact of climate change. This review paper features a comparative analysis of CO2 storage in deep saline aquifers, depleted reservoirs, coal seams, basaltic formations and clastic formations. The comparison has been drawn based upon seven factors carefully selected from the literature, i.e., safety, storage capacity, injection rates, efficiency, residual trapping, containment and integrity and potential to improve, and all of these factors have been rated from low (1) to high (5) based upon their individual traits. Based upon these factors, an overall M.H. rating system has been developed to categorize geological formations for CO2 storage and it is observed that deep water aquifers and basaltic formations are the most effective options for CO2 storage. Lastly, a detailed way forward has been suggested, which can help researchers and policymakers to find more viable ways to enhance the efficiency of CO2 storage in various geological formations.