Geologic carbon capture and storage (CCS) involves the injection of CO2 in a gaseous to supercritical state into subsurface formations, including disused oil beds, deep un-minable coal seams, and deep saline aquifers. Microbiological life is inherent in all such subsurface environments proposed for CCS. However, the impact of CCS on existing microbiological life and the impact of such life on the operation of CCS has been given limited consideration, as well as associated biogeochemical transformations that occur, which may also enhance or inhibit the operation of CCS. Research of native communities and their response to CO2 injection and research focused on assessing the role of microbial components in mineral dissolution/precipitation reactions under subsurface conditions in various geological settings are welcome. Research considering manipulation of microorganisms in the subsurface for the enhancement of CCS is also encouraged. This session aims to bring together researchers in the field of CCS who are considering such questions through laboratory, field and modelling based research.
Invited speakers: Benedicte Menez and Robin Gerlach