1887

Abstract

Summary

Seismic monitoring is widely regarded as the most effective technology to track CO plume evolution in geological carbon storage projects, particularly in saline aquifers ( ). However, its applicability in depleted gas fields is increasingly being questioned, or even dismissed, due to the inherent limitations of 4D seismic signals in such environments ( ). These limitations arise from the patchy and heterogeneous nature of the field causing a heterogeneous seismic response, where large portions of the reservoir may fall below detectability thresholds, while only isolated zones exhibit measurable changes after several years. This paper challenges the prevailing “time-lapse imaging seismic paradigm” that underpins these conclusions. Instead, the spot seismic surveillance strategy is presented, which focuses on both critical and high detectability zones while comparing observed anomalies to modelled plume behaviour. Performing seismic measurement as soon as possible on a geological storage project enables model calibration and more increased predictions accuracy. Drawing on insights from the Perenco CCS program and other offshore European case studies, this active seismic targeted approach can offer a more applicable, cost-effective, and operationally viable path forward for CO monitoring in mature gas reservoirs.

© EAGE Publications BV
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/content/papers/10.3997/2214-4609.202521181
2025-10-27
2026-01-18

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References

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/content/papers/10.3997/2214-4609.202521181
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The Image Paradigm in Question: 4D Seismic Limitations in Depleted Gas Fields for CO2 Monitoring
Conference Proceedings 2025, 1 (2025); https://doi.org/10.3997/2214-4609.202521181
/content/papers/10.3997/2214-4609.202521181
/content/papers/10.3997/2214-4609.202521181
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