Investigating Beetaloo Sub-basin shale formations to improve long-term integrity of decommissioned gas wells
This project will assess the ability of shale formations in the Beetaloo Sub-basin to self-seal or ‘creep’ over time after gas well decommissioning, creating a natural barrier to movements of hydrocarbon fluids.
This information will be used to develop a well leakage simulator specific to the Beetaloo Sub-basin. The simulator will be based on Northern Territory decommissioned well components, including cement plugs, reservoir conditions, associated decommissioning strategies, and Northern Territory code of practice requirements.