Understanding Salt Precipitation Dynamics during CO₂ Injection into Saline Aquifers using Microfluidic Experiments

This study investigates salt precipitation dynamics using microfluidic experiments, simulating CO₂-brine flow in porous media. The results show that salt crystallization is influenced by factors such as capillary backflow, fluid flow, and the interaction between CO₂ and brine. Salt precipitation occurs not only where brine was initially present but also in upstream areas due to capillary flow dynamics, highlighting the complexity of these processes. Variations in salinity and flow rates further affect the crystallization behavior, influencing the size, shape, and distribution of salt deposits. These findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive understanding of crystallization mechanisms to improve CO₂ sequestration strategies and mitigate unwanted salt precipitation in saline aquifers. Incorporating spatial variability and flow dynamics into models will enhance predictive capabilities and guide operational strategies.