“Geophysics can be used as a science tool to inform and engage the community and to give them the autonomy to make educated decisions.”
Dr. Julia Correa discusses August’s The Leading Edge, which focuses on geophysics and sustainability.
In this episode, we talk about:
- How applied geophysics and seismic methods are a natural fit for ensuring safe and compliant carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects.
- The importance of clear and effective science communication between geophysicists and stakeholders, including the public, regarding topics like CCUS.
- How innovative technologies, like fiber optics, drones (UAVs), and machine learning, are being integrated into geophysical research and data acquisition to create more robust monitoring solutions for various applications, including sustainable energy.
- How geophysics enables a carbon-neutral future, specifically in areas like geothermal energy, hydrogen storage, and lithium extraction.
- The need for geophysicists to expand their understanding of sustainability beyond resource extraction to focus on how their work can positively impact the planet and inform the public.
Sponsor
Katalyst Data Management® provides the only integrated, end-to-end subsurface data management solution for the oil and gas industry. Its employees operate in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America and are dedicated to optimizing the value of subsurface data, including seismic and well data. Katalyst enables clients’ digital transformation of E&P data with digitizing services and digital transformation consulting. Learn more at its website.
Guest Bio
Dr. Julia Correa is a Research Scientist in the Energy Geoscience Division. Her research is focused on developing an intelligent seismic monitoring array for subsurface surveillance in energy-related projects (Carbon Capture and Storage, Enhanced Geothermal, Oil & Gas). She uses fiber-optic sensing and permanent surface orbital vibrators (SOV) to develop an alternative, cost-effective monitoring system. Julia is involved in the optimization of acquisition and processing flows, as well as in the development of new fiber-optic cable designs.
Episode Overview
The conversation highlights the growing role of geophysics in addressing sustainability challenges. Julia emphasizes the shift from traditional resource extraction towards applications like:
- Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS): Geophysical methods, especially seismic imaging, are crucial for monitoring CO2 plumes, ensuring containment, and mitigating risks in CCUS projects.
- Renewable Energy: Geophysics contributes to the advancement of geothermal energy, hydrogen storage, and lithium extraction, all essential for a carbon-neutral future.
- Geohazard Analysis: Integrating seismic and microgravity data enhances the understanding and mitigation of geohazards like sinkholes, crucial in the context of climate change.
Technological Advancements
The conversation highlights key technological advancements shaping the future of geophysics for sustainability:
- Fiber Optic Sensing: Julia, an expert in the field, discusses the benefits of fiber optic technologies like DAS, DTS, and DSS for continuous, real-time monitoring of subsurface processes. This technology is particularly relevant for ensuring safety in CCUS and geothermal projects.
- UAVs and Drones: UAV-based approaches offer high-resolution aerial scouting, complementing traditional geophysical methods.
- Machine Learning: Integrating machine learning with geophysical data analysis facilitates real-time monitoring and enhances the understanding of complex subsurface dynamics.
Call to Action
Julia concludes with a call to action, urging geophysicists to think beyond short-term solutions and embrace innovative applications of geophysics for a sustainable future. She challenges the community to push the boundaries of the field and actively engage with the public to ensure a healthy planet for generations to come.
Episode Links
- Read the Special Section – Geophysics and sustainability
- Julia Correa, Aleksei Titov, and Vladimir Kazei, (2024), “Introduction to this special section: Geophysics and sustainability,” The Leading Edge 43: 482–482.
- Subscribers can read the full articles in the SEG Library; abstracts are always free.
Download this Episode
Please visit this page to download this episode as an .MP3 file.
Show Credits
Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis.
If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at [email protected].