Mechanisms and Technical Challenges of CO2 Geological Sequestration in Basaltic Formations

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) has been identified as one of the most active greenhouse gases regarding global warming and climate change. The day-by-day increased carbon dioxide emission from hydrocarbon-based industries into the atmosphere is leading to an enhanced concentration of carbon dioxide, which further snowballs into global temperature rise, resulting in melting ice caps and sea-level rise. Addressing these critical environmental challenges requires innovative solutions such as CO₂ sequestration in unmineable mafic rocks. To lessen the chance of leakage, active trapping techniques are necessary for efficient storage in subterranean formations. Because of its vesicular structure, desirable mineral composition, and global distribution, reactive rocks like basalt seem to be appropriate rocks for permanently storing CO₂ through a trapping process called carbon mineralization; they are among the possible repositories in this respect. However, the mechanical properties of the host rock, which have a significant influence on the rock's storage capacity and long-term stability, can be significantly affected by CO₂ exposure. The primary goal of this research is to investigate the effect of geological CO₂ sequestration on the mechanical attributes of mafic rock (basalt). In addition, the impact of storage duration on the mechanical responses of these rocks is examined before and after the injection of carbon dioxide. The results reveal a prominent decline in mechanical strength and stability of host rock in pre- and post-injection of carbon dioxide with respect to time. It highlights how crucial it is to consider these mechanical properties when designing and implementing carbon sequestration initiatives.