Description

The main objective of this teaching unit is to provide a basic knowledge of gas systems in the geological environment, focusing on the distribution and behavior of gases that will play an important role in the energy transition, such as hydrogen (H2) and helium (He).
The state of the art of the exploration of these gases will be presented and issues concerning the geological mass storage of these gases (salt caverns, aquifers) will be addressed. Necessarily, diffusion properties and interactions with other gases such as hydrocarbon gases and CO2 will be addressed.
More specifically, the storage of gas in salt caverns implies the solubilization of large quantities of evaporites which generally contain high levels of lithium (Li), an element essential to the energy transition for the manufacture of batteries.
In fact, the mastery of the physical and chemical properties and the engineering techniques required to exploit H2, He and Li are largely similar to the methods acquired from experience in the production of hydrocarbons, gas storage and high temperature geothermal energy. The teaching unit will thus also provide basic knowledge of the techniques classically used by the industry.