Application of Time-Lapse Seismic Imaging for Monitoring CO2 Sequestration in Subsurface Reservoirs

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The demand for sustainable energy sources has led to an increased interest in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. One of the key challenges in CCS projects is monitoring the injected CO2 plume in subsurface reservoirs to ensure its containment and effectiveness. Time-lapse seismic imaging has emerged as a valuable tool for monitoring CO2 sequestration projects, providing detailed information on the spatial distribution and movement of the injected CO2. This thesis explores the application of time-lapse seismic imaging for monitoring CO2 sequestration in subsurface reservoirs. The research aims to investigate the effectiveness of time-lapse seismic imaging in tracking the migration of CO2 plumes over time, assessing its spatial distribution, and detecting potential leakage pathways. The study focuses on the development of advanced seismic processing and interpretation techniques tailored to the unique challenges of CO2 monitoring. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter 2 presents a comprehensive literature review covering the principles of time-lapse seismic imaging, CO2 sequestration mechanisms, existing monitoring techniques, and case studies of successful applications. Chapter 3 details the research methodology, including data acquisition, processing workflows, interpretation strategies, and validation methods. The chapter also discusses the selection of study sites, seismic survey design, and integration of other monitoring technologies to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the results. In Chapter 4, the findings of the study are presented and discussed in detail. The results include seismic images of the CO2 plume evolution, velocity changes, pressure variations, and potential migration pathways. The interpretation of seismic attributes and anomalies is used to infer the behavior of the injected CO2 and assess the effectiveness of the monitoring approach. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis with a summary of the key findings, implications for CCS projects, recommendations for future research, and conclusions drawn from the study. The research highlights the potential of time-lapse seismic imaging as a powerful tool for monitoring CO2 sequestration in subsurface reservoirs, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of CO2 storage and the environmental impact of CCS activities. Overall, this thesis contributes to the advancement of monitoring technologies for CCS projects and provides valuable insights for industry practitioners, researchers, and policymakers working towards sustainable energy solutions and climate change mitigation.