Direct Injection - CCUS Terms

Description:
Direct Injection is a method of injecting captured carbon dioxide (CO₂) directly into underground geological formations, such as deep saline aquifers, depleted oil and gas fields, or unmineable coal seams, for long-term storage.

Explanation:
In the context of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), direct injection is a key technology for ensuring the permanent storage of captured CO₂. Here’s how direct injection works and its importance within the broader CCUS framework:

• Carbon Capture. While Direct Injection itself does not involve the capture of CO2, it is directly linked to the processes that capture CO2 from industrial or power generation sources. Once captured, the CO2 is typically compressed to a supercritical state to facilitate its transportation and injection.
• Utilization. Direct Injection does not include a utilization phase as its primary goal is the secure and permanent storage of CO2. This distinguishes it from other CCUS strategies that might use captured CO2 for industrial applications, such as in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) or for the production of synthetic fuels.
• Storage. The core role of Direct Injection in the CCUS process is to safely and permanently store large volumes of CO2. This is achieved by injecting the CO2 into suitable geological formations, such as depleted oil and gas fields, deep saline aquifers, or unmineable coal seams, where it can be securely contained and monitored over time. The choice of storage site depends on geological characteristics that ensure the CO2 remains trapped, such as impermeable cap rocks.

Advantages:
Direct injection offers several advantages in the context of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS). It helps mitigate climate change by storing CO₂ underground, thus preventing it from reaching the atmosphere, and supports international climate goals and commitments such as the Paris Agreement. Economically, direct injection provides a cost-effective method for storing large volumes of CO₂ and can potentially enhance oil or gas recovery from depleted fields, which reduces costs and promotes profitability for businesses and industries involved in CO₂ storage. Additionally, clear and transparent injection processes help build public trust and acceptance of CCUS projects, ensuring community support and participation in CO₂ storage initiatives.

Challenges:
Implementing direct injection technologies can be technically complex and require significant expertise, making it crucial that injection processes are based on sound science and engineering principles for success. Securing sufficient funding and resources for CO₂ injection projects can be challenging, necessitating adequate investment for the success of these initiatives. Additionally, navigating regulatory requirements and market barriers can be difficult, highlighting the need for clear and supportive policies to foster the development and deployment of CO₂ injection technologies.

In summary, Direct Injection is essential for promoting the development and deployment of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage technologies. By providing a secure method for the long-term storage of CO₂, it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.