Application of Harmonic Pulse Testing for Leakage Detection in Carbon Storage Formations

Abstract:

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) has the potential to enable a deep reduction in global CO2 emissions. Unintended migration of fluids from carbon storage formations not only compromises the goal of long-term carbon storage efficiency, but also leads to increased risks and liabilities. To fully characterize all attributes of leakage events (e.g., leak location and onset time), a leak detection tool must possess sufficient sensitivity and reliability. In this study, we demonstrate a novel leakage detection method based on harmonic pulse testing (HPT), in which a sinusoidal injection pattern is applied to probe potential leaks in carbon storage formations. Although HPT has been used for reservoir characterization, its efficacy for leakage detection requires further theoretical, numerical, and experimental validation. Our theoretical analysis and single- and multiphase modeling show that HPT is a viable and cost-effective method for pressure-based leakage diagnosis. Mega-scale laboratory experiments are being conducted using a 1-m diameter and 0.77m tall stainless tank to validate theoretical and numerical models. The results from numerical modeling, as well as from early experiments, will be presented.