Atmospheric monitoring for the Pembina Cardium CO2 Monitoring Project using open path laser technology

AbstractThis study aimed to assess remote sensing methods using open path laser technology as a tool for atmospheric monitoring of CO2 storage sites. CH4 and CO2 open path detection systems were tested at the Penn West Pembina Cardium CO2 enhanced oil recovery monitoring pilot. The tested CH4 detection system was found to be very sensitive and small increases in the gas concentration due to controlled releases were easily distinguishable. The detection capability of the CO2 detection system was impacted by the larger natural background concentration of CO2. Where possible, CH4 should be used as an indicator due to the better detection capabilities and smaller background concentration variations compared to CO2