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oa Optimizing CO2 Sequestration in Sandstone Aquifers: Balancing Geochemical Mineralization and Geomechanical Stability for Long-Term Carbon Storage
- Publisher: European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers
- Source: Conference Proceedings, World CCUS Conference 2025, Sep 2025, Volume 2025, p.1 - 5
Abstract
Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies are critical for achieving net-zero emissions, with geological storage in sandstone aquifers offering significant potential for long-term CO2 sequestration. This work investigates the geochemical and geomechanical impacts of carbon mineralization in sandstone formations, focusing on the interplay of reservoir reactions, infrastructure design and energy demand. Using PHREEQC-based numerical simulations integrated with a Python automation workflow, the study models CO2 -brine-rock mineral in selected formations. Results indicate that calcite precipitation is a viable CO2 sequestration mechanism, but porosity and permeability reductions pose injectivity risks, particularly at high temperatures (100°C) and pressures (>200 bar). Mid-range conditions (90°C, 175 bar) balance mineralization and injectivity, optimizing storage efficiency. The developed framework enables high-throughput analysis of geochemical-geomechanical trade-offs, providing a scalable tool for CO2 storage design. Future work will validate models with field data, incorporate geomechanical analysis, and develop a techno-economic framework to assess energy costs and scalability, guiding the deployment of large-scale CCUS systems.
