Unmineable Coal Seams - CCUS Terms

Description:
Unmineable Coal Seams are coal deposits that cannot be economically or safely mined using current technology and methods. These seams are often located at great depths, have thin or fragmented coal layers, or are otherwise geologically challenging.

Explanation:
In the context of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), unmineable coal seams provide an opportunity for the long-term storage of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Here’s how unmineable coal seams work and their importance within the broader CCUS framework:

• Carbon Capture. While unmineable coal seams themselves do not involve the capture of CO2, they are a terminal point for the storage of CO2 captured from power plants and industrial processes.
• Utilization. The injection of CO2 into unmineable coal seams can lead to the enhanced recovery of methane, a process known as enhanced coal bed methane (ECBM) recovery. This represents a utilization aspect, where the stored CO2 facilitates the extraction of methane, which can be used as a clean energy source.
• Storage. The primary role of unmineable coal seams in the CCUS process is the permanent storage of CO2. CO2 is physically adsorbed into the internal surface area of the coal, which is typically vast due to the porous nature of coal. This adsorption process ensures that CO2 is securely held within the seam.

Advantages:
Storing CO₂ in unmineable coal seams offers significant advantages by helping to reduce GHG emissions and preventing CO₂ from reaching the atmosphere, thus supporting international climate goals and commitments like the Paris Agreement. This method provides a cost-effective solution for storing large volumes of CO₂ and has the potential to recover methane, thereby reducing costs and promoting profitability for businesses and industries involved in CO₂ storage. Additionally, clear and transparent storage processes help build public trust and acceptance of CCUS projects, ensuring community support and participation in CO₂ storage initiatives.

Challenges:
Implementing storage in unmineable coal seams can be technically complex and require significant expertise, making it crucial that storage processes are based on sound science and engineering principles for success. Securing sufficient funding and resources for CO₂ storage 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 storage technologies.

In summary, Unmineable Coal Seams are essential for promoting the development and deployment of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage technologies. By providing a secure environment for the long-term storage of CO₂, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.