MMV - Hybrid Seismic Monitoring

Effective monitoring strategies are essential for demonstrating containment and conformance in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) operations to meet regulatory requirements. A comprehensive approach necessitates a toolbox of monitoring solutions, among which passive seismic monitoring plays a critical role in assessing containment and stress changes associated with CO2 injection. This study evaluates the benefits of a hybrid seismic monitoring approach when setting up a MMV plan for CCUS applications. A hybrid system integrates surface-based instruments (seismometers and accelerometers) with downhole monitoring components, including fiber optic arrays, 15 Hz geophone arrays, and low-frequency geophones. The combined approach enhances the detection of microseismic events (−M) to larger-scale seismicity (M+), improves depth accuracy, and increases sensitivity to microseismic activity. Additionally, downhole geophone arrays, depending on their configuration, enable real-time monitoring of caprock and casing integrity. By capturing the full spectrum of seismicity, hybrid monitoring systems provide critical insights for containment assurance and risk mitigation. This paper presents real-world data from CCUS projects and other subsurface injection operations to illustrate the advantages of hybrid seismic monitoring. The findings highlight the effectiveness of hybrid systems in improving the resolution and reliability of seismic data, thereby supporting the safe and efficient deployment of CCUS technologies.