Technical Committee Underground Storage Technology
Influence of Sulphur Compounds and Odorants on Underground Gas Storage - Literature Study
The present study aims to summarize the state of knowledge concerning the effects of sulphur
compounds and odorants in underground gas storage facilities (UGS). It is motivated
by increasing amounts of biogas in the German gas grid, potentially followed by residence of
mixed odorized gases in UGS. The effects of these compounds on reservoirs are heterogeneously
described by theoretical geochemical publications, laboratory results and the experiences
of operating French and German UGS.
An increase of the formation of H2S that coincide with risks for storage integrity, capacity
and well productivity is not known from operation practice. Pore blockage and reduction in
permeability in consequence of mercaptans or THT contaminations are not published. The
same can be stated for any increased flow resistance, blockage and corrosion processes in
well completions.
However, increased technological requirements are expected during injection of odorized
gas concerning the processing or disposal of reservoir fluids charged with sulphur compounds
and odorants as well as contaminated brines during releaching.
Thus, no immediate safety requirements to UGS arise due to the storage of odorized biogas.
However, technical operation must be surveyed for additional effects. The number of relevant
publications available on the topic is limited so