CO2 storage possibilities in Hungary

Due to the CO2 emissions that have been released into the atmosphere over the last 100 years, the concentration of one of the greenhouse gases - CO2 - has significantly increased. In 1960 the CO2 content in the atmosphere was 315 ppm; nowadays it is more than 375 ppm, and it is constantly increasing. This article tries to present one of the possible ways of how we can cut down the CO2 emission by implementing a new technology: Carbon Capture and Storage.

Suitable aquifers for storage are typically located at least 800 meters underground and contain non potable water. The carbon dioxide partially dissolves in the formation water, gets permanently trapped in micro pores.

Existing and depleted oil and gas fields have proven their capability to hold oil and gas over millions of years and therefore have great potential to serve as long-term storage sites for carbon dioxide.

Leakage is the most significant risk of CO2 storage, while CO2 gas can accumulate on the surface in deep isolated areas such as walleys. Good reservoir parameters go half the way towards mitigating risks. The most important thing is that the reservoir has appropriate cap rock with very good sealing conditions and geologic and hydrodynamic stability.

Péter Kubus