Session S20 - Applied Math and Computational Methods and Analysis across the Americas

Friday, July 16, 19:00 ~ 19:30 UTC-3

Effects of Charged Solute-Solvent Interaction on Reservoir Temperature during Subsurface CO2 and Produced Water Injection

Christopher Paolini

San Diego State University, USA   -   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A short-term side-effect of CO2 injection is a developing low-pH front that forms ahead of the bulk water injectant, due primarily to differences in solute diffusivity. Observations of bottom hole well temperature show a reduction in aqueous phase temperature with the arrival of a low pH front, followed by a gradual rise in temperature upon arrival of a high concentration of bicarbonate ion. We model aqueous-phase transient heat advection and diffusion with the volumetric energy generation rate computed from solute-solvent interaction using the Helgeson-Kirkham-Flowers (HKF) model, which is based on the Born Solvation model for computing specific molar heat capacity and enthalpy of charged electrolytes. A computed injectant water temperature profile is shown to agree with actual bottom-hole sampled temperature acquired from sensors. Accurate modeling of aqueous phase temperate during subsurface injection simulation is important for the accurate modeling of mineral dissolution and precipitation, as forward dissolution rates are governed by the temperature-dependent Arrhenius model.

Joint work with Jose Castillo, San Diego State University.

View abstract PDF