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CO{sub 2} reaction with hydrated class H well cement under geologic sequestration conditions: effects of flyash admixtures

Journal Article · · Environmental Science and Technology
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/es803007e· OSTI ID:21187044
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  1. United States Department of Energy, Pittsburgh, PA (United States). National Energy Technology Laboratory

The rate and mechanism of reaction of pozzolan-amended Class H cement exposed to both supercritical CO{sub 2} and CO{sub 2}-saturated brine were determined under geologic sequestration conditions to assess the potential impact of cement degradation in existing wells on CO{sub 2} storage integrity. The pozzolan additive chosen, Type F flyash, a by-product of coal combustion, is the most common additive used in cements for well sealing in oil-gas field operations. The 35:65 and 65:35 (v/v) pozzolan-cement blends were exposed to supercritical CO{sub 2} and CO{sub 2}-saturated brine and underwent cement carbonation. Extrapolation of the carbonation rate for the 35:65 case suggests a penetration depth of 170-180 mm for both the CO{sub 2}-saturated brine and supercritical CO{sub 2} after 30 years. Despite alteration in both pozzolan systems, the reacted cement remained relatively impermeable to fluid flow after exposure to brine solution saturated with CO{sub 2}, with values well below the American Petroleum Institute recommended maximum well cement permeability of 200 {mu}D. Analyses of 50:50 pozzolan-cement cores from a production well in a sandstone reservoir exhibited carbonation and low permeability to brine solution saturated with CO{sub 2}, which are consistent with our laboratory findings. 16 refs., 4 figs., 1 tab.

OSTI ID:
21187044
Journal Information:
Environmental Science and Technology, Journal Name: Environmental Science and Technology Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 43; ISSN ESTHAG; ISSN 0013-936X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English