Exhaustive Review of CO₂ Sequestration in Depleted Hydrocarbon Reservoirs: Recent Advances, Challenges and Future Prospects

Abstract

Aging or depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs (AHRs or DHRs) represent a promising alternative for CO2 geo-sequestration compared to other geological formations, owing to their distinctive characteristics and the availability of pre-existing infrastructure. However, large-scale deployment faces complex, multidimensional challenges that require ongoing research to ensure optimal efficiency and safety. Despite notable progress in understanding the technical processes, significant techno-economic barriers remain. To overcome these obstacles, it is essential to adopt a critical and holistic analysis of existing studies while also exploring innovative approaches. Most recent reviews, though contributing significantly, have focused on specific aspects of CO2 storage in these reservoirs, neglecting a systemic and multidimensional approach that integrates these various challenges into a single analysis. This fragmented approach leaves a gap in the literature, which may result in an incomplete understanding of the complex interactions between different factors, reducing the effectiveness of proposed solutions and limiting the ability to anticipate long-term impacts on the safety and sustainability of sequestration systems. Additionally, the rapid evolution of technology and scientific knowledge necessitates a constant update of studies related to sequestration in DHRs. Incorporating the latest technological innovations and methodological approaches is crucial to optimizing carbon capture and storage (CCS) processes, enhancing long-term safety, and adapting reservoir management strategies to increasing environmental and economic constraints. This review aims to address these gaps by providing a critical, comprehensive, and multidimensional analysis of recent advances while identifying persistent challenges. The integration of technical, economic, and environmental dimensions into a unified perspective offers a strategic global vision essential for guiding future research and supporting industrial applications. Furthermore, synthesizing the most recent developments and highlighting areas requiring further investigation, this study outlines a strategic roadmap for optimizing CO2 sequestration in AHRs and DHRs, offering crucial insights for both research and industrial innovation.