A Review of Mineral and Rock Wettability Changes Induced by Reaction: Implications for CO₂ Storage in Saline Reservoirs

Abstract

Wettability in CO2-brine-mineral/rock systems is an important parameter influencing CO2 storage capacities and leakage risks in saline reservoirs. However, CO2 tends to react with various minerals and rocks at subsurface conditions, thus causing temporal and spatial wettability changes. Although many relevant research works have been published during past years, a thorough overview of this area is still lacking. Therefore herein, reaction-induced wettability changes are reviewed, and the underlying mechanisms are discussed. Current research gaps are identified, future outlooks are suggested, and some conclusions are drawn. The fundamental understanding of reaction-induced mineral and rock wettability changes during CO2 storage in saline reservoirs is analyzed and the guidance for long-term CO2 containment security evaluations is provided.

Keywords

• wettability
• reactions
• CO₂ storage in saline reservoirs
• minerals
• rocks