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.

Thesis Overview

The project "Application of Time-Lapse Seismic Imaging for Monitoring CO2 Sequestration in Subsurface Reservoirs" focuses on the innovative use of time-lapse seismic imaging techniques to monitor the process of carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration in subsurface reservoirs. This research aims to address the critical need for effective monitoring and verification methods in carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects, particularly in the context of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. The utilization of CO2 sequestration in subsurface reservoirs as a means to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels has gained increasing attention as a promising strategy for achieving climate goals. However, ensuring the long-term storage and containment of injected CO2 is essential for the success and sustainability of such projects. Time-lapse seismic imaging offers a powerful and non-invasive tool for monitoring the movement and distribution of CO2 within the subsurface reservoirs over time, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness and integrity of the storage sites. This research will delve into the theoretical foundations and practical applications of time-lapse seismic imaging in the context of CO2 sequestration monitoring. By reviewing existing literature on related topics, the study aims to identify key methodologies, technologies, and best practices that can be applied to enhance the monitoring and verification processes in CCS projects. Additionally, the research will explore the challenges and limitations associated with time-lapse seismic imaging in this specific application, as well as potential solutions and advancements that could further improve its effectiveness. Through a comprehensive analysis of research methodologies and case studies, this project seeks to provide a detailed understanding of the benefits and limitations of using time-lapse seismic imaging for monitoring CO2 sequestration in subsurface reservoirs. By critically evaluating the current state of the art in this field, the research aims to contribute valuable insights and recommendations for optimizing the monitoring and verification processes in CCS projects, ultimately supporting the advancement of sustainable and effective CO2 storage solutions. Overall, this project represents a significant contribution to the field of geophysics and environmental science by investigating the potential of time-lapse seismic imaging as a valuable tool for monitoring CO2 sequestration in subsurface reservoirs. Through a thorough research overview and analysis, this study aims to expand knowledge, address challenges, and enhance the understanding of how advanced monitoring techniques can support the successful implementation of CCS projects for a more sustainable future.