RESULTS FROM THE FRIO BRINE PILOT TESTS, TEXAS, USA
4. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
(2.9 vs. ~0.3%) of CO2 in dissolved gas obtained from one of the two downhole Kuster samples.
Results obtained from samples collected in January 23–27, 2006 indicate brine and gas compositions that are approximately similar to those obtained from the “C” sandstone before CO2 injection. These results indicate the absence of signifi cant amounts of injected CO2 in the “B” fl uids sampled. However, a contrary conclusion is indicated based on the fact that PMCH and PTCH were measured in the six samples also analyzed for PFT tracers [27]. It is possible that the measured PMCH and PTCH concentrations represent desorbed PFT tracers that were introduced into “B” earlier and do not represent migration of additional injected CO2 into the “B” sandstone.
Results from the “B” sandstone show signifi cant CO2 migration from the
“C” sandstone. We can not rule out migration through the intervening beds of shale, muddy sandstone and siltstone, but a short-term leakage through the failed squeeze on perforations in the “C” or remedial cement around the casing of a 50-year old well is a more likely explanation. These results highlight the importance of investigating the integrity of cement seals, especially in nearby abandoned wells, prior to the injection of large quantities of reactive and buoyant CO2.
Fe, Mn and other toxic metals, in addition to the chemicals in the pristine brine.
Mobilization of organics, including BTEX, phenols and other toxic compounds, from this non oil-bearing aquifer would further compound the environmental severity of CO2 and brine leakage.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We thank S. Hovorka (PI) and others at BEG, U. of Texas, Austin, TX, for leading this project. We also thank G. Ambats, and B. Topping for helping with sampling and analyses, and D. Collins and others at Sandia Technologies for logistical support. Funding was provided by US. DOE (NETL). (William O’Dowd and Karen Cohen, Program Managers).
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