Carbon capture and storage: CO2 sequestration in anorthite-dominated rocks

Carbon capture and storage: CO₂ sequestration in anorthite-dominated rocks

K. T. Marquardt¹, S. Incel²

¹University of Oxford, ²Helmholz Center GFZ, Potsdam

Rising carbon dioxide emissions contribute to global warming, and despite efforts to reduce emissions, carbon capture and storage (CCS) may be required. CCS allows the permanent storage of CO2 through mineral carbonation.  The rate-limiting step in this carbonation reaction is mineral dissolution, influenced by crystallographic surface orientations. Higher-energy surfaces dissolve faster, aiding ion release and carbonation. Understanding grain boundary energy distribution can improve the efficiency of carbon storage.

The project aims to link CO₂ reaction rates with grain boundary types, helping select suitable rock types for sequestration. The student will measure grain boundary distribution using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), among other advanced electron microscopy techniques. Furthermore, the minerals' reactivity with CO₂ will be evaluated, validating whether carbon mineralisation occurs at high-energy boundaries and quantifying sequestration rates based on microstructure. The student will have the chance to work in a multi-national, highly collaborative research group in various research fields, from Materials and Earth sciences to climate technologies.