Fluid migration and cementation processes of sedimentary rocks
Cementation of pores and fractures influences the mechanical rock properties and the migration of subsurface fluid, and affects the quality of subsurface reservoirs such as hydrocarbons, sequestered CO2, geothermal energy or transformed green energy (green methane, hydrogen, compressed air).
We study diagenetic overprints and the sealing of pores and fractures, an approach called Structural Diagenesis.
… using natural analogues and experiments …
Research couples experiments using self-designed machines, with detailed field- and analytical work, in order to develop predictive tools for reactive transport processes. Rock analyses include stable and radiogenic isotope analyses to infer the fluid source, fluid inclusions to establish the p-T conditions and fluid chemistry during cementation, as well as optical microscopy, cathodoluminescence and SEM studies. We digitize natural outcrops using laser scans, and further explore the potential of the methods.
… to predict reservoir quality.
We characterize and predict reservoir heterogeneity (reservoir – French “storage house”) in terms of pore and fracture cementations, be it interim energy storage sites for natural or green gases, primary energy reservoirs such as oil, gas or geothermal, or repositories.
Utilization of reservoirs and energy systems
We perform portfolio-, process- and strategy analyses for energy-storage options and -trading using sensitivity and Monte-Carlo studies.
International collaboration &
International businesses and value-chains need a mutual understanding of cultures, relevant for both multinational companies and SMEs. With our international experience and the planning, realization and management of an operation in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region we provide a first-hand insight in setting-up tailor-made transnational higher education and we explore future collaborations.
… management of complex systems.
Trained in earth system processes and research enables us to work in complex systems, where failure is either unavoidable or an integral part. This leads to new discoveries and inventions, and results in more predictable systems. We explore complex systems and deduce processes for better performing operations.
Further information can be obtained from the Chair of Structural Geology, Applied Geosciences at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) University and from the Technology Transfer Unit TTE Reservoir-Geology, KIT Campus Transfer (KCT) GmbH, Karlsruhe, Germany.