Dynamic simulation of hydrogen trapping in bifurcating water-wet microchannels using the lattice Boltzmann method
Willemijn A. van Rooijen (TU Delft - Reservoir Engineering)
Pengyu Fu (China University of Geosciences, Wuhan)
Yuhang Wang (China University of Geosciences, Wuhan)
H. Hajibeygi (TU Delft - Reservoir Engineering)
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Abstract
Residual trapping is a critical mechanism influencing the efficiency of Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS). This study investigates the underlying processes of residual trapping by bypassing, through bifurcating geometries, focusing on how geometrical parameters and flow characteristics affect the trapping process. We develop a dynamic simulation framework based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) to simulate full drainage/imbibition cycles. Various geometries, based on the pore doublet model, were investigated and supported by theoretical analysis. In addition, trapping behavior of hydrogen was compared to that of CO2 and CH4. It is found that the channel width ratio, specially across the local bifurcating geometries, and the roundness of the grains, are among the key factors which control hydrogen trapping. Results indicate that the suited reservoirs for underground hydrogen storage have narrower channel-size ratios and smoother edges at micro-scale. Operational conditions also play a significant role. Lower flow rates enhance bypassing, which increases trapping.
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