Title: Qualitative risk assessment for using a mature oil field as a pilot experiment of CO₂ geological storage in Brazil

Authors: Maísa Matos Paraguassú; George Câmara; Paulo Sérgio Rocha; José Célio Silveira Andrade

Addresses: Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Rua Aristides Novis, nº 2, Zip Code 40.210-630, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil ' Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Rua Aristides Novis, nº 2, Zip Code 40.210-630, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil ' Salvador University – Laureate International Universities, UNIFACS, Alameda das Espatódias, 915, Zip Code 41.820-460 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil ' Faculty of Business Administration, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Av. Reitor Miguel Calmon, s/n, Zip Code 41.100-903 Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to apply a qualitative risk assessment method to a mature oil field as a pilot experiment of CO₂ geological storage in Brazil. This study was structured based on discussions with experts, analysis of available real data from field and literature databases. The results from the application of this method shows that most of the risk scenarios were predominantly classified as low risk due to favourable conditions of the site, such as: reservoir formation depth, thickness and seal lateral continuity. However, special attention should be given to risk scenarios such as operational error and well mechanical conditions during the whole site life cycle, which can negatively impact an aquifer. Finally, with appropriate risk assessment management, the risks of unwanted CO₂ leakage in the pilot onshore storage experiment can be adequately controlled and minimised.

Keywords: CO2; carbon dioxide; carbon capture; carbon storage; geological storage; qualitative risk assessment; pilot experiment; Brazil; mature oil fields; oil and gas industry.

DOI: 10.1504/IJETM.2013.059446

International Journal of Environmental Technology and Management, 2013 Vol.16 No.5/6, pp.451 - 466

Received: 05 Aug 2013
Accepted: 03 Sep 2013
Published online: 17 Sep 2014 *

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