Press releases

Geological CO2 storage modeling - Partnership between IFP and BRGM

06 January 2009

BRGM and IFP have signed a research partnership agreement for the development of software tools dedicated to the study, dimensioning and monitoring of geological CO₂ storage facilities.

This cooperation will draw on the complementary knowledge of the two bodies, as well as their internationally recognized expertise in the field of sub-surface modeling, relating in particular, to the physicochemical processes specific to CO₂ storage.

IFP brings its expertise in the field of basin modeling and reservoir engineering, applied in its COORES™ model that takes into account multiple scales of time and space, from the rock element to the storage site and the sedimentary basin. In particular, COORES™ can be used to simulate the various storage solutions under consideration and their evolution over long periods of time. It can also be used to model multiphase reactive flows, together with their geomechanical impact on the constituent and surrounding elements of the storage facility: well, cap rocks, faults.

BRGM has a long tradition in geological, geochemical, hydrodynamic, thermal and geomechanical modeling applied to various fields of geoscience. Its expertise in the modeling of the chemical reactivity of CO₂ storage facilities is internationally recognized. Notably, BRGM has developed thermodynamic and kinetic databases on fluids and minerals, as well as the SCALESIM software used to simulate water-gas-mineral chemical interactions for complex geochemical systems at high salinity levels.

This R&D partnership agreement between BRGM and IFP is designed to meet the many important strategic challenges associated with the implementation of CO₂ storage solutions, and in particular that of the medium to long-term security of storage. It also reinforces a strategic alliance forged between the two bodies in August 2007 through the creation, with GEOSTOCK, of GEOGREEN, a company dedicated to engineering activities in the field of geological CO₂ storage. BRGM and IFP are also members of CO2GeoNet, the European network of excellence on geological CO₂ storage. The network is made up of thirteen research institutes in seven countries.

About IFP
IFP is a world-class public-sector research and training center, aimed at developing the technologies and materials of the future in the fields of energy, transport and the environment. It provides public players and industry with innovative solutions for a smooth transition to the energies and materials of tomorrow – more efficient, more economical, cleaner and sustainable.

About BRGM
BRGM, the benchmark French public research body in the field of Earth Sciences, carries out three missions: scientific research, support for government policy, and international cooperation and development assistance. Its missions are hinged around these themes: geological mapping, mineral resources, geothermal energy, CO₂ storage, water management, post-mining, development planning and natural hazards, contaminated land, waste management, metrology, digital information systems.