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Highlights: [•] A novel geo-techno-economic methodology for CO2 reservoir capacity calculations. [•] Expert and economic uncertainty principles are introduced in reservoir assessments. [•] Simulations for Belgium indicate an average estimated matched capacity of 110Mt. [•] Results allow to rank Belgian reservoirs by development probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Potential CO2 reservoirs in Belgium are poorly explored. Consequently, the estimated storage capacities are theoretical capacities. The total theoretical storage capacity for Belgium is conservatively estimated at about 1Gt, additional exploration and research are needed to make better capacity assessments. An onset towards prioritising such actions is given here. Deep saline aquifers and coal sequences have created the geological storage options for CO2 in Belgium. The main criteria for reservoir selection and evaluation are reservoir properties, sealing, depth and the occurrence of trapping structures. Aquifer storage opportunities are the Houthem and Maastricht Formations, the Buntsandstein Formation, the Neeroeteren Formation, the Carboniferous Limestone Group (Dinantian) and the Devonian, the latter two in both the north and the south of the country. Of these, the Buntsandstein and the Dinantian reservoirs appear the most promising. Unmined coal sequences have a relatively large capacity, but the low permeability will pose technical difficulties. Storage in abandoned coal mines is likely feasible but pressure and sealing issues will have to be solved. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A recurring topic in discussions on the implementation of carbon capture and storage are the uncertainties in the estimations of the storage potential. Many regions worldwide and also in Europe are indeed insufficiently explored for providing estimates that are sufficiently reliable for such purposes. In this paper we present a method through which reliable and quantitative estimates can be obtained for very poorly explored regions. This new approach is based on well-proven economic principles and expert input, which are combined with a semi-generic storage model. Evaluation of the Belgian storage potential results in an estimation of 15 Mt/y (95% C.I.: 3 to 35 Mt/y) when expressed as an annual injection rate, or 620Mt (95% C.I.: 150 to 1400 Mt) when expressed as the total storage capacity. This estimation is that of the actual, practical storage potential, rather than a theoretical overestimation which is obtained by other methods. The reliability of the method is theoretically and empirically verified. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Until now, the stratigraphic position of the Cambrian Jodoigne Formation was very poorly constrained. On the basis of detailed mapping, lithological and sedimentological observations, structural field work and magnetic studies in the type area of the Jodoigne Formation, combined with an evaluation of existing biostratigraphic data, a much better constrained stratigraphic position is proposed. In the Cambrian stratigraphy presented herein, the Jodoigne Formation is moved from below the basal Cambrian Blanmont Formation up to a position in between the Lower Cambrian to lower Middle Cambrian Oisquercq Formation and the Upper Cambrian Mousty Formation. Hence, a Middle to Upper Cambrian age is suggested. A time-equivalence between the upper parts of the Jodoigne Formation and the lower parts of the Mousty Formation cannot be excluded. In the type area of the Jodoigne Formation, the proximity with the Blanmont Formation can be explained by means of the Asquempont Detachment System, this being fully compatible with the nature and orientation of this detachment system. In turn, the new stratigraphic position of the Jodoigne Formation results in a better understanding of the orientation and extent of the Asquempont Detachment System, and fully supports the continuation of this detachment system along the N-side of the Brabant Massif. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natur ally CO2-rich mineral water springs (pouhons) in east Belgium occur in the context of the Rhenohercynian domain of the Variscan fold-and-thrust belt, mostly within the Cambro-Ordovician Stavelot-Venn Massif. The origin of the CO2 is still unclear, although different hypotheses exist. In this review study, we show pouhon waters are of the calcium bicarbonate type (~310 mg/l HCO3 - on average), with notable Fe (~15 mg/l) and some Ca (~43 mg/l). Pouhon waters are primarily meteoric waters, as evidenced by H and O isotopic signature. The δ13C of CO2 varies from -7.8 to +0.8% and contains up to ~15% He from magmatic origin, reflecting a combination of carbonate rocks and mantle as CO2 sources at depth. Dinantian and Middle Devonian carbonates at 2-6 km depth could be potential sources, with CO2 generated by dissolution. However, carbonates below the Stavelot-Venn Massif are only predicted by structural models that assume in-sequence thrusting, not by the more generally accepted out-of-sequence thrust models. The mantle CO2 might originate from degassing of the Eifel magmatic plume or an unknown shallower magmatic reservoir. Deep rooted faults are thought to act as preferential pathways. Overall low temperatures of pouhons (~10 °C) and short estimated residence times (up to 60 years) suggest magmatic CO2 is transported upwards to meet infiltrating groundwater at shallower depths, with partial to full isotopic exchange with carbonate rocks along its path, resulting in mixed magmatic-carbonate signature. Although the precise role and interaction of the involved subsurface processes remains debatable, this review study provides a baseline for future investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]