CO2 Storage Optimization in a Tailings Storage Facility

While much work on CO2 reduction is on carbon capture, permanent storage of carbon dioxide in the coming decades is critical to fight climate change. Carbon sequestration in minerals is one of the most practical solutions for permanent CO2 sequestration. Carbon sequestering minerals are processed for base metals extraction by ultramafic mines. Passive carbonation of these minerals in a tailings storage facility is a virtually cost-free method of permanent CO2 sequestration. Until now, mine operators have not had the tools for managing their tailings storage facilities (TSFs) for maximum carbon storage. Recent work by Canada Nickel Company and Queen’s University has shown how optimizing the TSF can substantially improve carbon storage. The key drivers for CO2 storage have been studied experimentally and extended to tailings deposition through a multivariable model. The implications of this work will be presented.