Relative permeability analysis to describe multi-phase flow in CO₂ storage reservoirs

Relative permeability is one of the most important properties influencing the fate and movement of CO₂ in the subsurface. It is a parameter that quantifies the extent to which the injected CO₂ and water interfere with each other as they migrate through rocks. Relative permeability measurements are also used directly in all of the mathematical approaches for predicting and matching the fate and movement of CO₂ in the subsurface. Consequently, accurate measurements for this important parameter are indispensable.
The purpose of this report is to provide an explanation of the different methods used to measure relative permeability and to provide an objective review of comparable methodologies. The report will also include the identification of data gaps and the requirements to obtain additional material to provide a complete library of relative permeability measurements in varying brine compositions and rock types to represent as complete a suite of potential storage sites as possible.