Atmospheric monitoring for the Pembina Cardium CO2 Monitoring Project using open path laser technology

This study aimed to assess remote sensing methods using open path laser technology as a tool for atmospheric monitoring of CO(2) storage sites. CH(4) and CO(2) open path detection systems were tested at the Penn West Pembina Cardium CO(2) enhanced oil recovery monitoring pilot. The tested CH(4) detection system was found to be very sensitive and small increases in the gas concentration due to controlled releases were easily distinguishable. The detection capability of the CO(2) detection system was impacted by the larger natural background concentration of CO(2). Where possible, CH(4) should be used as an indicator due to the better detection capabilities and smaller background concentration variations compared to CO(2). (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved