According to a DOE press release, field tests have shown that using carbon dioxide in an oil recovery method dubbed “huff-and-puff” can help assess the carbon sequestration potential of geologic formations while tapping domestic oil resources.

The tests run by the Plains CO2 Reduction Partnership, one of seven in DOE’s Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership programs, was unique.

  • The depth (approximately 8,050 feet), was among the greatest.
  • Pressure (3,000 pounds per square inch) and temperature (180 degrees Fahrenheit) were among the highest.
  • The formation was a carbonate rather than clastic reservoir.

In addition to demonstrating the feasibility of combining CO2 storage along with enhanced oil recovery in carbonate rocks deeper than 8,000 feet, the test displayed effective tools for detecting and monitoring small-volume CO2 plumes in deep carbonate reservoirs to ensure safe and permanent sequestration.

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