About
The CarbFix project in Iceland proved the feasibility of carbon mineralization in basalt to dispose of CO2. We explored the potential for using this process in Saudi Arabia to permanently dispose of CO2 emissions from fixed industrial sources along the west coast. Our evaluation identified the key parameters needed for success, and highlighted the paramount importance of understanding the local geologic and hydrologic setting for proper site selection. This emerging technology complements carbon storage in sedimentary basins, and holds significant promise for reducing CO2 emissions to the atmosphere.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Geological sequestration is the only way to permanently dispose of CO2.
2. Basalt and ultramafic rocks are suitable carbon depositories, and do not require a seal.
3. Success relies on technologies from the oil industry for the characterization and coupled physicochemical simulation of fractured reservoirs.
4. Holds significant promise for greenhouse gas management.
Presenter
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Abdulkader M. Afifi
Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering, KAUST


Dr. Abdulkader M. Afifi is a Professor of Geology at KAUST, with expertise in mineral and hydrocarbon exploration and the regional geology of the Middle East. He retired from Saudi Aramco in 2017 as a Manager in Saudi Aramco’s Exploration Organization. His recent responsibilities included a variety of technical projects for oil, gas, geothermal exploration and carbon dioxide disposal. He started work in 1980 with the US Geological Survey Mission in Saudi Arabia on geological mapping and mineral exploration in the Arabian Shield, particularly the Mahd Adh Dhahab gold mine. He joined Saudi Aramco in 1991 and held various technical and management positions in its exploration, reservoir characterization and technical services departments. He also served on a team to implement the Kingdom’s gas initiative.

Abdulkader has a PhD in geology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, a Masters from the Colorado School of Mines, and a Bachelors (high honors) from KFUPM. He also completed the General Management Program at Harvard Business School. He is active in professional societies as an author, lecturer, conference organizer, and field trip leader. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Saudi Geological Survey. He served for many years as an associate editor of the journal GeoArabia. He served the American Association of Petroleum Geologists as an International Distinguished Lecturer, Councilor, and President of the Middle East Region. He also served on various committees including the Alumni Advisory Board of the University of Michigan’s Earth and Environmental Sciences Department and the Advisory Committee of the Geohazards Research Center at King Abdul Aziz University.
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