Dynamic models of CO2 injection in the Surat and Bowen basins, Queensland, Australia

In three radial models (typical of the Trelinga-1, Overston-1 and Moonie-39 wells) with boundaries placed at different distances, injection rates of 2 million tonnes per annum (Mt/a) cannot be sustained. In larger sector models, (with parameters typical of these three wells) injection of 2Mt/a is sustained in the Precipice Sandstone (Surat Basin), but reduces to 1.2Mt/a in the Showgrounds Sandstone (Bowen Basin). Plume footprints and overpressures range 10- 15 km and 35-75 bar, respectively. Baffles cause maximum overpressure and CO2 accumulation to occur underneath the seal at different times. Critical techno-economic areas of uncertainty for storage performance are revealed and thus inform exploration data acquisition strategy.