(677g) Characterization of CO2, Fluid, and Shale Via Feature Relocation Using Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, in Situ Infrared Spectroscopy, and Pore Size Analysis

Fundamental research examining the geochemical interactions of CO₂ and fluids with shale is limited from the perspective of understanding shale as a potential CO₂ storage reservoir and as an effective natural seal for hydrocarbons or CO₂. In addition, little is known about the effects of hydraulic fracturing agents such as water and CO₂ on the shale reservoir. Reaction of CO₂ with in-situ fluids, fracturing fluids, and reactive shale interfaces may generate new reactive surfaces or intermediates that may alter the properties of the formation. A fundamental understanding of the reactivity of CO₂ with shale and fluid interfaces will help in identifying 1) how CO₂ storage in shale formations plays a role in Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) activities, 2) if CO₂ can be applied as a potential fracturing agent, and 3) whether CO₂ is an effective fluid for hydrocarbon extraction. In this work, we apply in-situ Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), feature relocation scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area and density functional theory (DFT) pore size analysis to examine the effects of CO₂ and fluid on the shales across the U.S.