The Assesment for CO2 Sequestration Potential by Magnesium silicate Minerals in Turkey: Cases of Orhaneli-Bursa and Divrigi-Sivas Regions

Abstract

This paper examines the CO2 sequestration potential of magnesium silicate minerals in Turkey for two example cases, the Orhaneli-Bursa and Divrigi-Sivas regions. The distribution and properties of the silicate mineral deposits are provided and the quantities of CO2 that can be sequestered in these deposits is estimated. The silicate minerals in the Orhaneli and Divrigi deposits provide significant CO2 sequestration capacity. Assuming 100% mineral carbonation efficiency, approximately 2.4 million tons/year of olivine and 6.5 million tons/year of serpentine would be required to sequester the CO2 released by the power plants investigated in this study. Although more detailed studies are needed, it is concluded that this approach has potential given Turkey's large dunite (olivine) and serpentine reserves. Furthermore, the proximity of these deposits and active open-pit mines to thermal power plants emitting CO2 facilitate the utilization of mineral carbonation.