Parameters influencing the flow performance of natural cleat systems in deep coal seams experiencing carbon dioxide injection and sequestration

Abstract

Carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration in deep, unmineable coal seams may provide an immediate and economically feasible solution for mitigation of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. Coal contains natural cleats, which largely control fluid movement in coal seams. This study uses experimental and numerical methods to investigate the variables (i.e. injection pressure, injection depth, and coal temperature) that will influence cleat performance in the CO2 sequestration process for black coal. The steady-state downstream pressure (and pressure differential from the injection value) that develops during undrained triaxial tests performed on fractured black coal, without deviatoric load, is taken as a mea..