Variations in Permeability and Mechanical Properties of Basaltic Rocks Induced by Carbon Mineralization

Abstract

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS/CCS) is a strategic choice for ensuring energy security and reducing carbon dioxide emissions across the globe. The injection of CO2 into the basaltic reservoir is one strategy for the permanent disposal of carbon emissions. Basaltic rocks, which are widely distributed in Hainan Island, are capable of CO2 geological sequestration. In this study, the reaction of CO2-NaOH/Ca(OH)2-basaltic rocks under conditions of 6.0 M Pa and 30 °C was performed using basaltic samples collected from the Fushan area of the Hainan Province to evaluate the sequestration of CO2 in basalt by mineralization. Then, the effect of CO2 mineralization on the permeability and mechanical properties of basaltic rocks was evaluated using X-ray computer tomography and triaxial compression testing at 21.0 MPa. In addition, microwave technology was used to irradiate the basaltic rocks before mineralization. Changes in the permeability of basalt before and after mineralization and microwave irradiation were simulated numerically, and their effects on the mechanical strength deterioration of basalt were analyzed according to the rock mechanics using triaxial testing. Based on these results, a new method for the induction of basalt deterioration, mineralization, CO2 injectivity, and storage capacity using microwave irradiation is proposed for use in CCUS/CCS engineering.