Publications

Potential Seismicity Along Basement Faults Induced by Geological Carbon Sequestration

Chang, Kyung W.; Yoon, Hongkyu Y.; Martinez, Mario A.

Large-scale CO₂ sequestration into geological formations has been suggested to reduce CO₂ emissions from industrial activities. However, much like enhanced geothermal stimulation and wastewater injection, CO₂ sequestration has a potential to induce earthquake along weak faults, which can be considered a negative impact on safety and public opinion. This research shows the physical mechanisms of potential seismic hazards along basement faults driven by CO₂ sequestration under variation in geological and operational constraints. Specifically we compare the poroelastic behaviors between multiphase flow and single-phase flow cases, highlighting specific needs of evaluating induced seismicity associated with CO₂ sequestration. In contrast to single-phase injection scenario, slower migration of the CO₂ plume than pressure pulse may delay accumulation of pressure and stress along basement faults that may not be mitigated immediately by shut-in of injection. The impact of multiphase flow system, therefore, needs to be considered for proper monitoring and mitigation strategies.