AG-341
Geological Constraints of CO2 Sequestration (10 ECTS)

Required previous knowledge/specific course requirements:
Enrolment in a master programme in geology or solid earth geophysics.

Learning outcome:
Use of Longyearbyen CO2 laboratory will illustrate the value chain from exploitation of coal, use of coal as energy provider to CO2 storage. We use geological and geophysical data together with fluid flow data from the CO2 laboratory drilling sites together with nearby outcrop observation to illustrate the processes for storage of CO2. Emission of climate gases will be addressed. After completing the course, the students will gain insight in the value chain of CCS, knowledge of reservoir characterization and use of geological and geophysical data as input to reservoir modelling, and learn about methods of sub surface monitoring of the subsurface.

Academic content:
The main focus of the course will be on geologically based strategies and decision-making for optimal subsurface CO2 storage, using the Longyearbyen CO2 project as a case. Learning from other CO2 sequestration projects will enhance the understating of key challenges, such as reservoir sandstone properties and fracture systems in the reservoir and cap rocks. The course will also take advantage of the local coal geology as well as potential CO2 reservoirs in the vicinity of Longyearbyen (outcrop and subsurface) to illustrate the general carbon cycle, including the techniques available for power generation from coals and the different carbon capture technologies.

As the CCS value chain has significant political aspects, the political agenda, the administrative demands, and the lobbyist aims and targets will also be introduced to the students. The course offers 5 days of excursion and field work, emphasizing traps (seal) and reservoirs, geology of coal, coal production, power generation, and CO2 storage.

Teaching methods and activities:
The course lasts for four weeks and runs in combination with AG-841.
Course dates 2012: 29. May - 22. June 2012.

Total lecture hours: 24 hours.
Seminar hours: 24 hours.
Excursion/fieldwork: 5 days.

Compulsory assignment:
Fieldwork, exercises.

Assessment:

All assessments must be fulfilled in order to receive a final grade.

Further information:

Application deadline: 15. April 2012.