Accurate and Rapid Forecasts for Geologic Carbon Storage via Learning-Based Inversion-Free Prediction

Abstract

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is one approach being studied by the U.S. Department of Energy to help mitigate global warming. The process involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial sources and permanently storing them in deep geologic formations (storage reservoirs). However, CCS projects generally target “green field sites,” where there is often little characterization data and therefore large uncertainty about the petrophysical properties and other geologic attributes of the storage reservoir. Consequently, ensemble-based approaches are often used to forecast multiple realizations prior to CO2 injection to visualize a range of potential outcomes. In addition, monitoring data during injection operations are used to update the pre-injection forecasts and thereby improve agreement between forecasted and observed behavior. Thus, a system for generating accurate, timely forecasts of pressure buildup and CO2 movement and distribution within the storage reservoir and for updating those forecasts via monitoring measurements becomes crucial. This study proposes a learning-based prediction method that can accurately and rapidly forecast spatial distribution of CO2 concentration and pressure with uncertainty quantification without relying on traditional inverse modeling. The machine learning techniques include dimension reduction, multivariate data analysis, and Bayesian learning. The outcome is expected to provide CO2 storage site operators with an effective tool for timely and informative decision making based on limited simulation and monitoring data.

Emerging Directions for Carbon Capture Technologies: A Synergy of High-Throughput Theoretical Calculations and Machine Learning

“…Additionally, theoretical calculations can serve as a vital source of high-quality data that is essential for accurate modeling and analysis. Moreover, by generating rapid and accurate predictions, deep learning models can inform decision-making processes, optimize capture strategies, and help mitigate potential risks (such as inefficiencies) associated with CO 2 capture …”

“…Moreover, by generating rapid and accurate predictions, deep learning models can inform decision-making processes, optimize capture strategies, and help mitigate potential risks (such as inefficiencies) associated with CO 2 capture. 42 In conclusion, the path toward unlocking the full potential of the SMART framework in the carbon capture domain, despite the presence of several challenges, appears promising and exciting. The proposed theoretical and computational framework aims to harness the power of high-throughput calculations, AI, and machine learning to achieve integrated model scalability, and potentially push the boundaries of carbon capture research.…”