Numerical Modeling of CO₂ and Brine Leakage through Open Fracture in a Fault Zone: Open Channel Flow or Darcy Flow

Figure 1

Concept model of CO₂ leakage along the fracture zone developed in the middle of a fault area which offsets and connects two sets of aquifers, the deep Aquifers 1 and 2 and shallow Aquifers 3 and 4. Open fractures of different apertures may grow inside the fracture zone and work as a fast pathway for CO₂ leakage. A horizontal well of 2 m length is drilled at the right and bottom side of Aquifer 1 for 5 years’ CO₂ injection.