(105b) CO2 Pipeline Dispersion Modeling Comparison

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration is important to achieve stated climate goals. An essential element of carbon capture sequestration (CCS) programs is the pipeline transport of CO₂ to the injection wells. Recent incidents and public concern have focused on the importance of dispersion modeling related to potential pipeline releases. There are choices of methodology for dispersion modeling depending on various factors such as analysis time, required detail of analysis and local terrain complexity.

This paper will explore a case study to compare simplified dispersion modeling with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling for locations of simple terrain and complex terrain. The example cases will provide guidance on when simplified modeling is sufficient versus when consideration of terrain and complex modeling is necessary and can provide value for stakeholder engagement.