Numerical simulation on the long-term behavior of CO2 injected into a deep saline aquifer composed of alternating layers

In this study, numerical simulations are conducted to predict the long-term behavior of CO2 injected into a deep saline aquifer composed of alternating sandstone and shale layers. We carried out a base-case simulation with a conceptual model broadly based on the geological structure underlying the Tokyo Bay area and sensitivity analyses of key parameters. The results show that alternating layers of moderate permeability and capillary pressure without a structural trapping also has considerable capacity of CO2 storage and seal. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd.