Seismic characterization of the Nisku Formation in the Wabamun area, Alberta, Canada for large‐scale CO ₂ sequestration

Abstract

Seismic characterization of the Devonian Nisku Formation in the Wabamun area, Alberta, Canada has revealed two primary groups of anomalies. The first group is interpreted to be footprints of geological discontinuities which are induced by dissolution and karsting in a geologic formation shallower in the stratigraphy. Even though there is no evidence to indicate that the integrity of the Nisku Formation or the overlying caprock has been compromised, such geologic discontinuities should be taken into consideration if supercritical CO 2 were to be injected into the Nisku Formation. The second group is interpreted to be due to contrasts in lithology and/or porosity of the Nisku Formation. This interpretation is supported by constraints provided by well control and by seismic modeling. Finally, our analysis has identified favorable low-impedance, potentially high-porosity, locations that could be developed for a CO 2 injection site.

Analytical Model for Leakage Detection in CO2 Sequestration in Deep Saline Aquifers: Application to ex Situ and in Situ CO2 Sequestration Processes

“…In this project, fractures could be as large as 1 km 2 . 30 Different methods have been developed to characterize CO 2 leakage in a CO 2 sequestration process. Deng et al 31 performed a numerical simulation on Rock Spring Uplift, Wyoming, to determine the leakage, injectivity, and storage capacity in different cases.…”

“…There are various natural ways to facilitate the leakage phenomenon in CO 2 sequestration such as fractures in carbonates. − One of the examples comes to mind to highlight the existence of large fractures in carbonates is the Wabamun Lake Sequestration Project (WASP). In this project, fractures could be as large as 1 km 2 . Different methods have been developed to characterize CO 2 leakage in a CO 2 sequestration process.…”