CCS Predictive maintenance using active focused seismic monitoring

Paper presented at the Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage conference (CCUS) held in Houston, TX, USA, 11-13 March 2024 and presented by Habib Al Khatib.

Written by: Habib Al Khatib¹, Tillmann Roth², Jan Grobys², Andreas Szabados²– 1 SpotLight, 2 Wintershall DEA

Abstract:

One of the most critical aspects of a CCS MMV (Monitoring, Measurement, and Verification) plan is determining the frequency of monitoring a CCS field with active seismic methods. Deviating from regular time-lapse measurements, this study presents an innovative surveillance approach for CCS
This paper explores how combining the predicted extension of CO2 plumes (i.e., a dynamic model) and focused monitoring can provide a nimble and efficient response to this question. By analyzing the output of the dynamic model, we can identify where and when to focus seismic monitoring, thereby validating the primary reservoir hypothesis while excluding worst-case scenarios and assessing identified risks. This trigger technology can be implemented frequently and provide critical information to trgiger if models are prove to be wrong, model updates or the acquisition of more expensive data such as walk-away VSPs, 4D seismic images…
The same method can be used for multiple flow scenarios check, and to monitor some identified risks for CCS containment (fault, abandoned wells, fractured areas). When synergized with micro-seismic, it can be used using micro-seismic antennae as receivers, and has the ability to be quickly mobilized to focus a monitoring on an unexpected microseismic ‘active’ area in order to check the presence or absence of CO2 in this area.

Download: DOI 10.15530/ccus-2024-3999159