A Critical Meta-Analysis of CO2-Water-Rock Interaction in Basalt for CO2 Storage: A Review Based on Global and Indian Perspective

Abstract

Global warming and energy security lead to the hunt for alternative energy sources and CO2 emission mitigation technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS). CCS is a prominent technique and its success depends on the sites of storage and agents influencing the storage efficiency. Geological formations are much safer as compared to oceanic injection for CO2 storage and include formations like sedimentary and igneous formations. Igneous formations like peridotite, komatiites, and basalt have huge potential to store CO2 and take the least time to convert the injected gas into solid carbonates along with the advantage of negligible leakage (as injected gas converts to carbonates through carbon mineralization). Carbon mineralization is a complex process involving the interaction of water-CO2-rock to form solid carbonates. In this review, we have highlighted the carbon mineralization in basalt by discussing the dissolution and precipitation mechanism. The discussion includes the uncertainty in the role of aluminum ions and siderite precipitation during CO2 storage in basalt. The review article also presents the first insight for the qualitative assessment of the CO2 storage potential of Deccan volcanic provinces (DVP) in India concerning the rock composition, injection depth, and type of injection. The mineralogy, and structure of the Basaltic province of DVP support CO2 storage. The principal minerals including calcic plagioclase and pyroxene, support mineral carbonation. Out of the total available area of DVP, 95% consists of tholeiitic basalt, exhibiting a simple flow structure. Additionally, the area is seismically safe for CO2 storage. The challenges and future research gap areas highlighted in this review article include suitable depth for injection, lateral continuity, the role of geothermal gradient, water availability, and public acceptance. Thus, the article provides a critical insights into the exploration and development of CCS technologies in India, emphasizing the importance of the Deccan Volcanic Provinces in achieving net-zero goals.