Role of Lorenz Coefficients in Carbon Capture and Storage Dynamics: A Case Study of the Air Benakat Formation

Abstract:

Indonesia's commitment to combat climate change through carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiatives is evidenced by the designation of the Air Benakat Formation as a potential site for global carbon emissions mitigation. This study examines the intricate dynamics of CCS within the Air Benakat Formation, focusing on CO₂ storage capacity, reservoir pressure build-up, and CO₂ plume migration, while considering the influence of Lorenz coefficients (Lk) characterizing reservoir permeability heterogeneity. The study reveals that Lk values play a crucial role in determining CO₂ storage capacity and safety. Lower Lk values indicate higher storage capacity due to formation homogeneity, while higher Lk values decrease injected CO₂ quantity, emphasizing the delicate balance between permeability, capacity, and safety. Additionally, Lk significantly impacts pressure profiles, with higher values leading to faster pressure buildup in high-permeability zones, influencing breakthrough pressure. A more uniform formation allowed for the safe storage of 0.347 million tons (Mt) of CO₂ at Lk = 0.2. In contrast, when Lk = 0.6, which is associated with more heterogeneity, the amount of CO₂ injected reduced to 0.333 MtCO₂. Variations in Lk have a major effect on the pressure profile. As Lk changed from 0.2 to 0.6, the pressure fell from 89.95% to 88.13% of the maximum pressure. In high-permeability zones, higher Lk values cause pressure to build up more quickly. Furthermore, CO₂ plume migration is influenced by Lk and reservoir permeability characteristics, with higher Lk values resulting in a more dispersed and elongated plume. Over time, CO₂ saturation increases consistently, particularly in high-permeability zones.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 1184)
• Pages: 49-58
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-aBTD7G
• Online since: November 2025
• Authors: Romal Ramadhan, Muslim Abdurrahman*, Agus Arsad, Veridaus Napitupulu
• Keywords: CCUS, CO₂-EOR, Geological Carbon Sequestration, Lorenz Coefficient, Reservoir Simulation

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