Experimental methodology used to investigate transport processes in cap rock

Geological storage of CO2 into deep saline aquifers has been proposed as a short-term solution. Effectiveness of geological storage is dependent on the overlying cap rock, and its ability to maintain a competent seal. Rate of CO2 transport is site-specific, dependent on the geology and CO2 properties.; Investigation of laboratory data is essential in understanding the fundamental processes occurring in the field. Sealing ability of low permeability cap rocks is heavily debated, and laboratory methods used to determine its behaviour are limited in capability. Development of a sophisticated testing facility required to investigate the effect of gas transport under a flexible regime of parameters and geological materials, including highly fissile stiff clays, is presented. It was designed with the intention of testing diffusion, advection, and intact adsorption on fragile materials such as clay shales. An advanced sealing mechanism design, ability to control triaxial stresses, and constant temperature control is incorporated here, with the potential for in-line electrical resistivity measurements.