Revisiting the Stratigraphy and Structure of the Faroe Islands Flood Basalts for Large-Scale CO2 Storage in Basalt Reservoirs

Abstract

Comprehensive mapping of the stratigraphy and structures is essential when exploring basaltic reservoirs for CO2 storage. A major task in analysing the storage potential of the reservoir is to bring all relevant geological data within a single framework for integration and joint interpretation. In this study, we illustrate how data integration facilitates an improved understanding of the geological evolution of the Faroe Islands, the North Atlantic Igneous Province, and how the data integration forms a foundation for future carbon capture and storage campaigns. We have integrated new and existing data including geological field observations, digital elevation models, digital outcrop models, lithological logs, seismic profiles, and bathymetry in a single, consistent, and quality-controlled toolbox. Two key findings are that (a) we have mapped stratigraphic markers in the central Faroe Islands across the islands, and there is no indication of large-scale strike-slip faults that offset the volcanic stratigraphy; (b) our analysis provides no clear onshore evidence of transfer zones in the Faroe Islands. We show that a high density of data and integration of data types across different vertical and horizontal scales is crucial for mapping the highly heterogeneous basaltic reservoir.