High-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) experimental apparatus

Abstract

An experimental apparatus for investigating CO2 dissolution in water, the experimental apparatus comprising a framework; a chamber; and a dissolution cell. The chamber may comprise a cylindrical body rotatably connected to the framework. The cylindrical body may comprise a first base and a second base; a first cap sealing the first base; and a second cap sealing the second base, such that an insulated enclosed space may be defined inside the chamber. The dissolution cell may be disposed inside the insulated enclosed space and at a predetermined distance of the first cap and the second cap such that the dissolution cell may be thoroughly observable through the sight window.

Description

HIGH-PRESSURE HIGH- TEMPERATURE (HPHT) EXPERIMENTAE APPARATUSTECHNICAE FIEED

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to experimental apparatus and systems utilized for investigating gas dissolution in a liquid, and more particularly to high-pressure high-temperature experimental apparatus employed for investigating and observing the dissolution of CO2 in water or saline water.BACKGROUND

[0002] Nowadays, the use of fossil fuels raised significant concerns due to limited resources and the environmental consequences resulting from the emission of greenhouse gases. Preventing the emission of greenhouse gases is a method for reducing global climate change and environmental effects. In this regard, one approach might be to halt activities that involve greenhouse gas emission. However, this approach is not often practical because most activities can’t be replaced with those that consume green energy. Another approach could be a net- zero energy approach which aims to achieve a balance between the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere and those captured from it. Capturing and storing the greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the most significant greenhouse gases, into geological storages (e.g., depleted oil and gas reservoirs, saline aquifers, ...) seems to be a potent method based on the net-zero energy approach.

[0003] Laboratory studies on gas capturing and storage in underground formations have primarily been conducted using non-observable and observable experimental equipment. In both types of experimental equipment, the process of gas dissolution and diffusion into water is investigated, but under different conditions. Non-observable laboratory equipment may comprise devices which are capable of conducting investigations under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. In such systems, since the experiments are non-observable, a comprehensive understanding of the dissolution process may not be obtained. On the other hand, observable laboratory equipment may comprise transparent devices which conduct experiments under atmospheric pressure and temperature due to limitations in applying high pressure and temperature to large transparent materials. Therefore, observable equipment may not simulate real conditions associated with gas dissolution in aquifers, as the on-site process of gas injection into saline aquifers often occurs under high-pressure and high-temperature due to the depths at which aquifers are located. For example, injecting carbon dioxide is performed under supercritical conditions (i.e., at temperatures more than about 31°C and pressures more than about 1070 psi).

[0004] Therefore, there is need for laboratory or experimental equipment and apparatuses capable of presenting both quantitative and qualitative (visual) data associated with the process of gas dissolution in liquid solvent (e.g. saline water). The experimental apparatus should conduct the dissolution process in the presence of porous media and under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions to resemble real condition of the gas dissolution in saline aquifers.SUMMARY

[0005] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of one or more exemplary embodiments, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. The proper scope of one or more exemplary embodiments may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0006] In one general aspect, the present disclosure may describe an experimental apparatus for investigating CO2 dissolution in water. In an exemplary embodiment, an experimental apparatus may comprise an exemplary framework, and an exemplary chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary chamber may comprise an exemplary cylindrical body rotatably connected to an exemplary framework through a pair of exemplary bearings. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary cylindrical body may comprise an exemplary first base and an exemplary second base. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary chamber may further comprise an exemplary first cap sealing an exemplary first base. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first cap may comprise an exemplary aperture conducting light into an exemplary chamber; and an exemplary sight window comprising a transparent material. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary sight window may be disposed at an exemplary center of an exemplary first cap. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary chamber may further comprise an exemplary second cap sealing an exemplary second base such that an exemplary insulated enclosed space may be defined inside an exemplary chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary insulated enclosed space may be configured to confine an exemplary pressurized fluid.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary experimental apparatus may further comprise an exemplary dissolution cell disposed inside an exemplary insulated enclosed space. In an exemplary embodiment an exemplary dissolution cell may be disposed at an exemplary predetermined distance of an exemplary first cap and an exemplary second cap such that an exemplary dissolution cell may be thoroughly observable through an exemplary sight window. In an exemplary embodiment an exemplary dissolution cell may be submerged in an exemplary pressurized fluid.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dissolution cell may comprise an exemplary transparent plate reinforced with an exemplary brace; and an exemplary open case connected to an exemplary transparent plate such that an exemplary vacuity may be defined between an exemplary open case and an exemplary transparent plate. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary open case may comprise an exemplary second plate that may be parallel to an exemplary transparent plate. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second plate may comprise a plurality of exemplary projections. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of exemplary projections may support an exemplary brace and a plurality of exemplary projections may be configured to prevent an exemplary transparent plate from bending towards an exemplary vacuity. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary open case may further comprise an exemplary first inlet configured to introduce water into an exemplary vacuity; and an exemplary second inlet configured to introduce CO2 into an exemplary vacuity.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, an experimental apparatus may further comprise an exemplary liquid accumulator. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary liquid accumulator may comprise an exemplary housing separated into an exemplary first part and an exemplary second part via an exemplary sliding plunger, wherein an exemplary first part may be configured to conduct water to an exemplary vacuity through an exemplary first inlet. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second part may be configured to conduct an exemplary pressurized fluid to an exemplary insulated enclosed space such that an exemplary change in pressure in either an exemplary vacuity or an exemplary insulated enclosed space may result an exemplary corresponding change in pressure of an exemplary vacuity or an exemplary insulated enclosed space, respectively.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary experimental apparatus may further comprise an exemplary gas accumulator. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary gasaccumulator may be configured to conduct CO2 into an exemplary vacuity through an exemplary second inlet.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dissolution cell may further comprise an exemplary permeable porous medium. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary permeable porous medium may fill an exemplary vacuity to an exemplary predetermined height. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary permeable porous medium may comprise a plurality of exemplary glass beads.

[0012] This Summary may introduce a number of concepts in a simplified format; the concepts are further disclosed within the “Detailed Description” section. This Summary is not intended to configure essential / key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example in association with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0014] FIG. 1A illustrates a prospective view of an exemplary experimental apparatus, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. IB illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary experimental apparatus along section line A-A depicted in FIG.1A, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 2A illustrates a prospective view of an exemplary dissolution cell, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 2B illustrates a front view of an exemplary dissolution cell, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary piping and instrumentation of an exemplary experimental apparatus, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a temperature adjustment unit, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates pressure versus time graph of an exemplary dissolution cell at a constant T=6(T C, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings related to the exemplary embodiments. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0022] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth toprovide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be plain to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0023] Disclosed herein is an exemplary experimental apparatus employed for investigating and observing the dissolution of CO2 in a liquid solvent based on water, such as saline or brine water. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary experimental apparatus may yield both visual and quantitative data pertain to an exemplary dissolution process. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary experimental apparatus may conduct an exemplary dissolution process under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary experimental apparatus may perform an exemplary dissolution process in the presence of an exemplary permeable porous medium.

[0024] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1A illustrates a prospective view 100 of an exemplary experimental apparatus 102, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and FIG. IB illustrates a cross-sectional view 101 of an exemplary experimental apparatus 102 along section line A-A depicted in FIG.1A, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, experimental apparatus 102 may comprise framework 104, chamber 106, gas accumulator 124, liquid accumulator 126, and dissolution cell 136.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 1A-B, chamber 106 may be mounted on framework 104 through a pair of bearings (e.g., bearing 118) which enables chamber 106 to rotate around horizontal axis 120 clockwise 122a or counterclockwise 122b. In an exemplary embodiment, framework 104 is useful in mounting or dismounting dissolution cell 136 inside chamber 106 during an investigation process. In an exemplary embodiment, by rotating chamber 106 around axis 120 clockwise 122a, chamber 106 may be positioned vertically such that the first cap 110 may be located upper than the second cap 132. In an exemplary embodiment, when chamber 106 is positioned vertically, mounting or dismounting of dissolution cell 136 may perform conveniently. In an exemplary embodiment, chamber 106 may be rotated counterclockwise 122b around axis 120 to be positioned horizontally. In an exemplary embodiment, chamber 106 may need to be positioned horizontally during an investigation process due to the effects of the gravity influencing an exemplary dissolution process.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, chamber 106 may comprise main body 108 in a shape of an exemplary cylinder (cylindrical body) which may be rotatably connected to framework 104 through a pair of bearings (e.g., bearing 118). In an exemplary embodiment, cylindrical body 108 may comprise first base 108a and second base 108b. In an exemplary embodiment, first cap 110 and second cap 132 may close and seal first base 108a and second base 108b, respectively such that insulated enclosed space 138 may be defined inside chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, insulated enclosed space 138 may be configured to confine an exemplary pressurized fluid. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pressurized fluid may comprise pure or distilled water which is pressurized by an exemplary pump.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pressurized fluid may be conducted into chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, dissolution cell 136 may be submerged in anexemplary pressurized fluid. In an exemplary embodiment, introducing an exemplary pressurized fluid into insulated enclosed space 138 may perform in order to apply an external pressure on dissolution cell 136 which is almost equal to an internal pressure of dissolution cell 136. In an exemplary embodiment, a pressure balance of dissolution cell 136 allows an exemplary dissolution process to be carried out at high-pressure high-temperature conditions in which CO2 is in supercritical state.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, first cap 110 may comprise aperture 112 which may be used for conducting light 144 into chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, light source 142 may introduce light 144 into chamber 106 so that visually observation of an exemplary dissolution process occurring inside dissolution cell 136, may be possible. In an exemplary embodiment, first cap 110 may further comprise sight window 114 which may be disposed at center 116 of first cap 110. In an exemplary embodiment, sight window 114 may comprise an exemplary transparent material such as plexiglass or any transparent material which is capable of bearing high pressure and high temperature conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, “high pressure” and “high temperature” may refer to conditions in which CO2 is in supercritical state. In an exemplary embodiment, “high pressure” may refer to pressures over than 1000 psi. In an exemplary embodiment, “high temperature” may refer to temperatures over than 3 O’ C. In an exemplary embodiment, second cap 132 may comprise auxiliary window 132a through which insulated enclosed space 138 may partially or thoroughly be observable.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIGs. 1A-B, dissolution cell 136 may be mounted inside chamber 106 by fastening means 134a-b. In an exemplary embodiment, fastening means 134a-b may comprise various fastening methods such as permanent (e.g., welding, soldering, brazing, glueing, ...) or non-permanent (bolting, clamping, ...). In an exemplary embodiment, dissolution cell 136 may be disposed insideinsulated enclosed space 138 at predetermined distances 146a-b of first cap 110 and second cap 132, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, predetermined distances 146a-b may be defined such that dissolution cell 136 is thoroughly observable through sight window 114 so that a plurality of exemplary qualitative data may be obtained. In an exemplary embodiment, predetermined distances 146a-b may be equal. In an exemplary embodiment, predetermined distance 146a may be longer than predetermined distance 146b.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary imaging equipment, such as camera 140, may be employed to receive a plurality of exemplary qualitative data in association with an exemplary dissolution process through recording or capturing videos or images. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary imaging equipment may be disposed outside of chamber 106 and in front of sight window 114 enabling camera 140 to record or capture videos or images of dissolution cell 136 during an exemplary dissolution process.

[0031] FIG. 2A illustrates a prospective view 200 of an exemplary dissolution cell 136, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and FIG. 2B illustrates a front view 201 of an exemplary dissolution cell 136, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, dissolution cell 136 may be an exemplary component of experimental apparatus 102 inside which an exemplary dissolution process may occur.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIGs. 2A-B, dissolution cell 136 may comprise transparent plate 208 and open case 212. In an exemplary embodiment, open case 212 may be connected to transparent plate 208 such that vacuity 222 may be defined between open case 212 and transparent plate 208. In an exemplary embodiment, transparent plate 208 may be fixed to open case 212 and seal vacuity 222 via frame 218. In an exemplary embodiment, frame 218 may connect transparent plate 208 to open case 212 by means ofexemplary non-permanent fasteners such as bolts 228. In an exemplary embodiment, frame 218 may connect both transparent and open case 212 together tightly so that vacuity 222 is completely sealed. In an exemplary embodiment, frame 218 may comprise a pair of brackets 220a-b. In an exemplary embodiment, dissolution cell 136 may be connected to chamber 106 via the pair of brackets 220a-b.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, transparent plate 208 may be reinforced with brace 210 for preventing transparent plate 208 from bending towards vacuity 222 due to an external pressure exerted by an exemplary pressurized fluid confined in insulated enclosed space 138. In an exemplary embodiment, open case 212 may comprise second plate 214 and a plurality of exemplary projections (e.g., projections 216, 217). In an exemplary embodiment, second plate 214 may be parallel to transparent plate 208. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of exemplary projections (e.g., projections 216, 217) may be disposed on second plate 214 where projections 216, 217 support brace 210. In an exemplary embodiment, brace 210 and projections 216, 217 may prevent transparent plate 208 from bending towards vacuity 222.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGs. 2A-B, dissolution cell 136 may further comprise first inlet 202 and second inlet 204. In an exemplary embodiment, first inlet 202 and second inlet 204 may be disposed in open case 212. In an exemplary embodiment, first inlet 202 may be configured to introduce an exemplary liquid (e.g., water) into vacuity 222 or to discharge water from vacuity 222 during an exemplary dissolution process. In an exemplary embodiment, first inlet 202 may be connected to liquid accumulator 126 (shown in FIGs. 1A and 3) which supplies and conducts water towards vacuity 222. In an exemplary embodiment, second inlet 204 may be configured to introduce an exemplary gas (e.g., CO2) into vacuity 222 or to discharge CO2 from vacuity 222. In an exemplary embodiment, second inlet 204 may be connected to gas accumulator 124 which supplies and conducts CO2 toward vacuity 222. Inan exemplary embodiment, outlet 206 may be used for discharging vacuity 222 or for cleaning and maintenance purposes.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIGs. 2A-B, for the purpose of simulating a real process of CO2 dissolution in aquifers, an exemplary permeable porous material may be employed inside dissolution cell 136. In an exemplary embodiment, vacuity 222 may be filled with permeable porous medium 224 to predetermined height 226. In an exemplary embodiment, permeable porous medium 224 may comprise any substance or material which permits water to flow through, such as sand, gravel, glass beads, etc.

[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view 300 of an exemplary piping and instrumentation of an exemplary experimental apparatus, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, experimental apparatus 102 may further comprise various equipment and instrumentation such as exemplary piping (e.g., piping 310, 312, 324), valves (e.g., 322a-d), a plurality of connectors and fittings (e.g., 320a-c), pumps (e.g., pump 314), measurement equipment (e.g., pressure gauge (P.G.) 318, pressure indicating transmitter (P.I.T) 316), etc., to accomplish an exemplary dissolution process. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary connectors and fittings (e.g., 320a-c) may be employed for connecting at least two exemplary pipes together such that an exemplary fluid may flow therethrough.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, piping 324a may connect pump 314 to liquid accumulator 126. In an exemplary embodiment, liquid accumulator 126 may comprise housing 302 which may be separated into first part 304 and second part 306 via sliding plunger 308. In an exemplary embodiment, first part 304 may be configured to conduct water to vacuity 222 through piping 312. In an exemplary embodiment, piping 312 may connect first part 304 of liquid accumulator 126 to first inlet 202 of dissolution cell 136. In anexemplary embodiment, “water” may refer to any solution based on water, such as saline water or brine water, and it may not necessarily refer to pure or distilled water unless otherwise recited. In an exemplary embodiment, second part 306 may be configured to conduct an exemplary pressurized fluid to insulated enclosed space 138 of chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary change in pressure in either vacuity 222 or insulated enclosed space 138 may result an exemplary corresponding change in pressure of vacuity 222 or insulated enclosed space 138, respectively.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, piping 310 may connect gas accumulator 124 to second inlet 204 of dissolution cell 136. In an exemplary embodiment, gas accumulator 124 may comprise CO2. In an exemplary embodiment, pump 314 may be utilized for adjusting CO2 pressure stored in gas accumulator 124. In an exemplary embodiment, for observing gas accumulator 124 pressure, pressure gauge 318 may be employed thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, P.I.T. 316 may be used for investigating and recording dissolution cell 136 pressure. In an exemplary embodiment, P.I.T 316 may be further employed for transmitting real-time pressure of dissolution cell 136 to data acquisition unit 328. In an exemplary embodiment, data acquisition unit 328 may comprise an exemplary interface for enabling an exemplary user to monitor and control an exemplary data obtaining progress. In an exemplary embodiment, data acquisition unit 328 may be capable of recording, controlling, and illustrating exemplary data received from P.I.T. 316.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, for adjusting and controlling temperature of various equipment of experimental apparatus 102, exemplary heating jackets may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, heating jacket 326a may cover cylindrical body 108 of chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, heating jacket 326a may comprise any equipment which generates heat or thermal energy from electricity. In an exemplary embodiment, heating jacket326b may cover gas accumulator 124. In an exemplary embodiment, heating jacket 326b may comprise any equipment which generates heat or thermal energy from electricity. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary insulation liners or jackets may be wrapped around various components and equipment of experimental apparatus 102 such as chamber 106, and gas accumulator 124.

[0040] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration 400 of a temperature adjustment unit 402, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, temperature adjustment unit 402 may be employed in experimental apparatus 102 for measuring, monitoring and adjusting temperatures of various components, for example chamber 106 and gas accumulator 124. In an exemplary embodiment, temperature transducer or sensor 410a (SI) may be mounted inside chamber 106 (i.e., disposed in insulated enclosed space 138) for measuring temperature of an exemplary pressurized fluid which is charged into chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, any temperature change related to an exemplary pressurized fluid may be transmitted to temperature controller 406 (T.C.l). in an exemplary embodiment, temperature controller 406 may comprise an exemplary proportional-integral- derivative (PID) controller which continuously compares exemplary real-time data received from temperature sensor 410a with an exemplary predefined temperature. In an exemplary embodiment, temperature controller 406 and power regulator 412 may adjust an exemplary power supplied to heating jacket 326a. In an exemplary embodiment, heating jacket 326a may comprise thermal element 404a.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, temperature transducer or sensor 410b (S2) may measure temperature of an exemplary gas stored in gas accumulator 124. In an exemplary embodiment, real-time temperature changes of an exemplary gas may be transmitted to temperature controller 408 (T.C. 2). In an exemplary embodiment, temperature controller 408may comprise an exemplary on-off temperature controller which adjusts an exemplary power applied to heating jacket 326b. In an exemplary embodiment, heating jacket 326b may comprise thermal element 404b. In an exemplary embodiment, “thermal element” may refer to any substance or equipment which generates heat by converting various forms of energy into thermal energy.EXAMPLE: Investigating Pressure Change During Dissolution Process of Supercritical CO2 in Saline Water

[0042] Hereinafter, one or more exemplary embodiments will be described in further detail with reference to examples. It will be obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art that these examples may be for illustrative purposes only and are not to be interpreted to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates pressure versus time graph 500 of an exemplary dissolution cell 136 at a constant T=60° C, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, graph 500 may illustrate pressure change of dissolution cell 136 over time, during the dissolution process of supercritical CO2 in saline water. In an exemplary embodiment, graph 500 may comprise sections 502, 504, 506, 508, 510, and 512, wherein each section may correspond to a step of the dissolution process.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, before the dissolution process initiation, dissolution cell 136 may be filled with permeable porous medium 224 to an exemplary height (e.g., height 226). In an exemplary embodiment, dissolution cell 136 may be vacuumed from any fluid by using an exemplary vacuum pump. In an exemplary embodiment, after evacuation of dissolution cell 136, vacuity 222 comprising permeable porous medium, may be completely filled with saline water. In an exemplary embodiment, saline water may be one molar sodiumchloride (NaCl) saline water containing 2% weight of Bromocresol green (as an exemplary PH indicator substance).

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, dissolution cell 136, after supplying with saline water, may be mounted inside chamber 106. In an exemplary embodiment, chamber 106 may be filled thoroughly with pure or distilled water such that dissolution cell 136 is completely submerged in distilled water. In an exemplary embodiment, more than 12 hours may be needed for pressure to increase to approximately 1074 psi as a result of increasing temperature of chamber 106 and dissolution cell 136 to approximately 6(f C (section 502). In an exemplary embodiment, chamber 106 and dissolution cell 136 may be given time to reach pressure and temperature balance (section 504). In an exemplary embodiment, pressure of dissolution cell 136 may be improved to reach about 1600 psi by using pump 314 (section 506).

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, pressure and temperature of CO2 stored in gas accumulator 124 may be elevated to 4000 psi and 6(f C, respectively, for entering CO2 to supercritical state. In an exemplary embodiment, as supercritical CO2 is injecting into dissolution cell 136 through a second inlet 204, a corresponding amount of saline water is discharging from vacuity 222 through first inlet 202. In an exemplary embodiment, introducing CO2 into vacuity 222 may be continued until the pressure of dissolution cell 136 reaches to approximately 1580 psi (section 508).

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dissolution process may conduct isothermally or in constant temperature (60sC). In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary dissolution process may initiate with molecular diffusion. In an exemplary embodiment, as the dissolution process is progressing because of the density difference between saline water and CO2-riched saline (i.e., an exemplary liquid yielded from CO2 dissolution into saline water),CO2-riched saline may move downward. In an exemplary embodiment, gravity-drivenconvection of CC -richcd saline may lead to an increase in the dissolution rate and corresponding pressure drop (section 510). In an exemplary embodiment, after accomplishing the dissolution process, chamber 106 and dissolution cell 136 may be evacuated from any fluid so that a sudden drop in pressure is depicted in section 512.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, visual observation of the dissolution process may export various parameters that are helpful in obtaining a comprehensive understanding about the process. For example, through assessing and processing images captured during the dissolution process, the amount of dissolved CO2 may be obtained.

[0049] While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0050] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0051] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents.Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfythe requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[0052] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0053] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0054] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study, except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as “first” and “second” and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0055] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoingDetailed Description, it may be seen that various features are grouped together in variousimplementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0056] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An experimental apparatus for investigating CO2 dissolution in water, the experimental apparatus comprising: a framework; a chamber comprising: a cylindrical body rotatably connected to the framework through a pair of bearings, the cylindrical body comprising a first base and a second base; a first cap sealing the first base, the first cap comprising: an aperture conducting light into the chamber; and a sight window comprising a transparent material, the sight window disposed at a center of the first cap; and a second cap sealing the second base such that an insulated enclosed space is defined inside the chamber, the insulated enclosed space is configured to confine a pressurized fluid; a dissolution cell disposed inside the insulated enclosed space at a predetermined distance of the first cap and the second cap such that the dissolution cell is thoroughly observable through the sight window, and the dissolution cell is submerged in the pressurized fluid, the dissolution cell comprising: a transparent plate reinforced with a brace; and an open case connected to the transparent plate such that a vacuity is defined between the open case and the transparent plate, the open case comprising: a second plate parallel to the transparent plate, the second plate comprising a plurality of projections supporting the brace, the plurality of projections configured to prevent the transparent plate from bending towards the vacuity;a first inlet configured to introduce the water into the vacuity; and a second inlet configured to introduce the CO2 into the vacuity.

2. The experimental apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a liquid accumulator comprising a housing separated into a first part and a second part via a sliding plunger, wherein the first part is configured to conduct the water to the vacuity through the first inlet, and the second part is configured to conduct the pressurized fluid to the insulated enclosed space such that a change in pressure in either the vacuity or the insulated enclosed space results a corresponding change in pressure of the vacuity or the insulated enclosed space, respectively.

3. The experimental apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a gas accumulator configured to conduct the CO2 into the vacuity through the second inlet.

4. The experimental apparatus of claim 1, wherein the dissolution cell further comprises a permeable porous medium filling the vacuity to a predetermined height.

5. The experimental apparatus of claim 1, wherein the permeable porous medium comprises a plurality of glass beads.

6. An experimental apparatus for investigating a gas dissolution in a liquid, the experimental apparatus comprising: a chamber comprising: a cylindrical body comprising a first base and a second base; a first cap sealing the first base, the first cap comprising a sight window disposed at a center of the first cap; and a second cap sealing the second base such that an insulated enclosed space is defined inside the chamber, the insulated enclosed space is configured to confine a pressurized fluid;a dissolution cell disposed inside the insulated enclosed space and at a predetermined distance of the first cap and the second cap such that the dissolution cell is thoroughly observable through the sight window, and the dissolution cell is submerged in the pressurized fluid, the dissolution cell comprising: a transparent plate; and an open case connected to the transparent plate such that a vacuity is defined between the open case and the transparent plate, the open case comprising: a first inlet configured to introduce the liquid into the vacuity; and a second inlet configured to introduce the gas into the vacuity.

7. The experimental apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a framework to which the chamber is rotatably connected.

8. The experimental apparatus of claim 7, wherein the framework is connected to the chamber through a pair of bearings.

9. The experimental apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first cap further comprises an aperture that conducts light into the chamber.

10. The experimental apparatus of claim 6, wherein the sight window comprises a transparent material.

11. The experimental apparatus of claim 6, wherein the transparent plate is reinforced with a brace.

12. The experimental apparatus of claim 11, wherein the open case further comprises a second plate disposed parallel to the transparent plate, the second plate comprising a plurality of projections supporting the brace, the plurality of projections is configured to prevent the transparent plate from bending towards the vacuity.

13. The experimental apparatus of claim 6, wherein the dissolution cell further comprises a permeable porous medium filling the vacuity to a predetermined height.

14. The experimental apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a liquid accumulator comprising a housing separated into a first part and a second part via a sliding plunger, wherein the first part is configured to conduct the liquid to the vacuity through the first inlet, and the second part is configured to conduct the pressurized fluid to the insulated enclosed space such that a change in pressure in either the vacuity or the insulated enclosed space results a corresponding change in pressure of the vacuity or the insulated enclosed space, respectively.

15. The experimental apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a gas accumulator configured to conduct the gas into the vacuity through the second inlet.

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