Integrating petrophysics and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage: navigating challenges and harnessing opportunities for climate change mitigation

As the urgency to address climate change escalates, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) emerges as a pivotal technology for reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) levels.Central to the effectiveness of CCUS is the accurate characterisation of subsurface geological formations, a task where petrophysics plays a crucial role.The present review article delves into the integration of petrophysical analysis with CCUS, highlighting its significance in enhancing the efficiency of CCUS operations.By examining recent scientific research, methodologies, and case studies, the present review emphasises how petrophysics contributes to optimising site selection based on key properties such as porosity and permeability and advances monitoring techniques for tracking CO 2 injection and subsurface plume dynamics.The discussion highlights the significance of petrophysical properties in predicting CO 2 behaviour in geological reservoirs, which supports the enhancement of storage strategies and enhances the safety and reliability of CO 2 sequestration.This is particularly relevant in the utilisation phase, notably in enhanced oil recovery applications.The present article also identifies promising trends and emerging technologies in petrophysical analysis that are expected to enhance the effectiveness and economic feasibility of CCUS.By highlighting the integral role of petrophysics in CCUS, the present article promotes a deeper understanding of how interdisciplinary approaches can address the complexities of carbon management.Ultimately, incorporating petrophysical insights into CCUS not only boosts carbon mitigation potential but also drives the advancement of sustainable and efficient carbon management techniques crucial for a low-carbon future transition.