Controls on Permeability of Deep Sandstone Aquifers
We are studying sedimentary rocks of the St. Peter, Eau Claire and Mt. Simon formations to understand the processes responsible for generating and destroying porosity and permeability. These rocks are exposed in outcrops throughout southern Wisconsin and in drill core from Illinois. Analysis of stable isotope ratios (oxygen, carbon, and silicon) in quartz, feldspar and csrbonate cements at 1-10 micrometer scale at WiscSIMS (UW-Madison) constrains the temperatures and timing of cements. The results potentially impact decisions relating to exploration for fossil fuels, sequestration of CO2 in deep aquifers and protection of groundwater reservoirs. see: Hyodo A. et al. (2014) Chemical Geology 384: 168-180.
Outcomes
The results potentially impact decisions relating to sequestration of CO2 in deep aquifers and protection of groundwater reservoirs.
Focus Areas
Project Leader
John Valley
Professor
- Department/Unit
- Geoscience
- School or College
- College of Letters & Science