Abstract

CO2 injection into coal seams not only enhances coalbed methane (CBM) extraction but also allows for CO2 sequestration. Microwave irradiation is considered to be an effective technology to enhance CBM extraction. In this paper, the effects of microwave irradiation and supercritical CO2 immersion on the pore structure of low-rank coals were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mercury-in-pressure (MIP), low-temperature nitrogen adsorption (LTN2GA), and carbon dioxide isothermal adsorption/desorption (CO2IA/D) of coal samples. The results showed that the macropores and micropores of the coal samples were more developed after microwave irradiation. After carbon dioxide immersion, the coal samples showed huge fissures, and the meso- and micropores were reduced. In contrast, microwave-assisted carbon dioxide not only reduced the specific surface area in the meso- and microporous stages and decreased the adsorption sites of methane but also enhanced the pore connectivity in the macroporous stage instead of the appearance of huge fissures. This study illustrates the potential of microwave-assisted supercritical carbon dioxide for enhanced coalbed methane extraction and carbon dioxide sequestration.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.