Energy and climate change represent significant factors in global security. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, while global in scope, are influenced by pore-scale phenomena in the subsurface. We are developing tools to visualize and investigate processes in pore network microfluidic structures with transparent covers as representations of normally-opaque porous media. In situ fluorescent oxygen sensing methods and fluorescent cellulosic materials are being used to investigate processes related to terrestrial carbon cycling involving cellulytic respiring microorganisms. These structures also enable visualization of water displacement from pore spaces by hydrophobic fluids, including carbon dioxide, in studies related to carbon sequestration.
Revised: December 13, 2013 |
Published: June 11, 2013
Citation
Grate J.W., C. Zhang, M.J. Wilkins, M.G. Warner, N.C. Anheier, J.D. Suter, and R.T. Kelly, et al. 2013.Chemical sensing and imaging in microfluidic pore network structures relevant to natural carbon cycling and industrial carbon sequestration. In Micro- and Nanotechnology Sensors, Systems, and Applications V, April 29, 2013, Baltimore, Maryland. Proceedings of the SPIE, edited by T George, M Salif Islam and AK Dutta, 8725, Paper No. 87522. Bellingham, Washington:SPIE.PNNL-SA-94789.doi:10.1117/12.2018520