Application of magnetic resonance imaging in CO2 storage systems: A review

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques are increasingly being recognized as indispensable tools in advancing the study of carbon dioxide (CO₂) storage and enhanced oil recovery (EOR). MRI enables non-invasive, high-resolution imaging of fluid distributions and interactions within porous media, offering valuable insights into two-phase flow dynamics. This review presents a comprehensive synthesis of recent advancements in the application of MRI for visualizing and quantifying multiphase flow behaviour, pore structure characteristics, wettability alterations, capillary trapping phenomena, CO₂ leakage assessment, and hydrate dynamics in porous media. The paper critically analyzes experimental methodologies such as core flooding systems and advanced imaging sequences like low-field and high-field NMR techniques, highlighting their advantages and current limitations in simulating field-relevant reservoir conditions. It also explores recent innovations, including diffusion-weighted imaging and low-field MRI adaptations, which are expanding the scope of MRI applications in geosciences. Comparative assessments of relevant studies reveal how MRI-derived data support real-time visualization of fluid distributions, saturation changes, and pore-scale interactions across multi-phase systems such as CO₂–brine–oil. Despite their promising role, MRI techniques face challenges related to scale-up, resolution constraints in heterogeneous rock samples, and operational complexity under reservoir pressures. To overcome these, the review emphasizes future directions such as integrating machine learning for data interpretation, scaling up MRI systems with lab measurements for field deployment, and incorporating experimental insights into predictive reservoir models. This work contributes to the ongoing development of accurate monitoring and verification tools essential for the success of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) initiatives.