Numerical Simulation of Temperature Changes Caused by CO 2Injection in Geological Reservoirs

Abstract

Injection of CO 2into the subsurface for geological storage has an effect on the temperature of the storage formation and the CO 2itself. Numerical investigations are an essential tool in describing the relevant processes that determine such changes and the impact they may have on the migration and the storage mechanisms of CO 2in the subsurface.

This chapter focuses on the numerical simulation of such thermal effects and their consequences. Simulating the temperature changes in a storage site can be of interest for temperature-based monitoring. Determining whether or how such thermal effects change the transport of CO 2in the formation is important for the success of a CO 2storage effort. In particular, this chapter examines a leakage scenario and how temperature changes could affect the leakage flow.

The second part of the chapter presents results of a complex reservoir-scale simulation. The target formation forms an anticlinal structure at a depth of about 570–900 m (1870–2953 ft). Strong temperature effects can be expected because of the possible transition of the CO 2from a high-density supercritical to a low-density gaseous state at the given depths.