COMPARATIVE GEOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF META-BASALT IN VIRGINIA AND BASALT IN ICELAND: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS ON CARBON STORAGE POTENTIAL

In the pursuit of sustainable carbon management solutions, basalt formations have emerged as promising candidates for carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) due to their capacity to react with carbon dioxide (CO₂) and form stable carbonate minerals. This study presents findings from a comparative geological analysis of meta-basalt from Virginia and basalt from Iceland, aimed at evaluating their potential as native reservoirs for CO₂ storage. Fieldwork involved systematic geological mapping and sampling in both regions to identify representative meta-basalt and basalt formations. The collected samples underwent comprehensive laboratory analyses, including petrographic examination, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These techniques were employed to characterize the mineralogical and geochemical properties of the meta-basalts and basalts, with a focus on their suitability for CO₂ sequestration. Preliminary results indicate significant variability in the mineral composition and porosity of the formations from Virginia and Iceland. Icelandic basalts exhibit higher porosity and permeability, while Virginian meta-basalts tend to have low porosity and permeability with filled fractures. Both Icelandic basalts and Virginian meta-basalts have olivine, pyroxene, and plagioclase feldspar, minerals known for their reactivity with CO₂. Initial experiments simulating CO₂-rich water interactions reveal distinct differences in carbonation efficiency between the meta-basalt and basalt. These early findings suggest that the geological and mineralogical characteristics of meta-basalt and basalt play a crucial role in their carbon storage potential. The ongoing study aims to further elucidate the mechanisms of carbonate mineral formation and optimize conditions for enhanced CO₂ sequestration. By comparing the meta-basalt and basalt from these diverse geological settings, we seek to improve CCS capabilities in meta-basalt and basalt formations globally. This research contributes valuable insights into the feasibility of using meta-basalt and basalt formations for long-term CO₂ storage, offering a potential pathway for mitigating atmospheric carbon levels and addressing climate change.