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Enhanced Monitoring of Geologic Carbon Sequestration Using 3-D Passive Microseismic Location Techniques--Weston Geophysical Corporation, 181 Bedford St., Suite 1, Lexington, MA 02420-4550; 781-860-0127; www.westongeophysical.com

Dr. Delaine Reiter, Principal Investigator, delaine@westongeophysical.com

Mr. James Lewkowicz, Business Official, jiml@westongeophysical.com

DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-07ER84683

Amount: $99,582

Department of Energy scientists and U.S. policy makers have identified the potential benefit of sequestering large quantities of greenhouse gases (primarily carbon dioxide, CO₂) from the Earth’s atmosphere into subsurface carbon reservoirs. However, the storage process must be carefully monitored to ensure that the CO₂ is not released back to the atmosphere. Successful, cost-effective monitoring technologies are necessary keys to establishing the viability and safety of long-term geo-sequestration efforts. This project will adapt and apply a powerful three-dimensional location technique to passively monitor the movement of sequestered CO₂ in geological formations. Phase I will demonstrate the technique’s capabilities to accurately monitor the micro-seismicity that occurs in shallow underground reservoirs, such as those proposed for carbon sequestration. Phase II will conduct a field test of the technique, using a combination of surface and borehole sensors, at an appropriate monitoring site.

Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new technique should find application in the monitoring of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) efforts, in underground facility characterization, and in the monitoring of mining micro-seismicity.