A group of prominent Scottish Earth scientists have secured a substantial £1 million grant from the UK Government to pioneer innovative techniques for quantifying carbon dioxide storage in volcanic rock
Iceland has demonstrated the efficacy of the emerging carbon storage approach known as mineralisation. Here, the inherent reactivity of basalt volcanic rock helps the swift conversion of carbon dioxide into novel minerals, ensuring its secure subterranean containment.
This strategy significantly amplifies concerns about greenhouse gas levels, primarily carbon dioxide, driving global warming.
Pivotal role of carbon storage in volcanic rock
Addressing the pressing need to curtail greenhouse gas emissions, carbon capture and storage methods have gained prominence.
Notably, the focus on carbon dioxide storage in volcanic rock as a potential storage medium is gaining momentum, given its potential to mitigate atmospheric carbon levels significantly.
Dynamic collaboration to validate storage
A strategic partnership with Icelandic mineralisation specialist Carbfix drives the endeavour to examine novel techniques for monitoring carbon dioxide sequestration—the target: the largest geothermal power plant in Iceland. Rigorous assessment and validation of the secure and enduring storage of captured carbon dioxide are at the core of this collaboration.
Dr Stuart Gilfillan and his team from the University of Edinburgh are at the helm of this research. Leveraging cutting-edge mineral analysis methodologies and a pioneering CO2 fingerprinting tool – currently undergoing patenting through Edinburgh Innovations – the team aims to offer comprehensive insights.
The INCLUSION Project: Pushing boundaries
Supported by a substantial £1 million grant from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) through its Pushing the Frontiers initiative, the INCLUSION project stands as a beacon of scientific progress. This collaboration between Carbfix, the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre (SUERC), and the University of Edinburgh aims to revolutionize carbon storage strategies.
A holistic vision for a sustainable future
Dr. Stuart Gilfillan underscores the significance of this venture: “This project amalgamates Scotland’s advanced scientific infrastructure with the world’s premier CO2 mineralization initiative.
It will open up crucial insights into the secure underground storage of CO2 in basalt formations while also expanding our understanding of basalt reactivity on a global scale.”
Precision monitoring for enhanced confidence
Professor Fin Stuart, Director of SUERC, elaborates on the project’s aims: “By discerning the unique chemical signature of injected CO2 at Carbfix, we can trace its evolution during storage. This precision allows us to gauge the extent and effectiveness of CO2 storage through mineralization, fostering confidence in future storage potential and facilitating participation in carbon credit programs.”
Synergistic fusion of expertise
Dr. Sandra Ósk Snæbjörnsdóttir, Head of CO2 Mineral Storage at Carbfix, emphasises the collaborative essence of the initiative: “Carbfix thrives on the synergy between academia and industry.”
Collaborations with esteemed research institutions like the University of Edinburgh enhance our comprehension of natural processes underlying our technology, augment our verification methods, and advance technical evolution.
This partnership offers fresh perspectives and nurtures the next generation of domain experts. “We are privileged to join forces with these eminent scientists and are eager for the outcomes.”
