Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

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A geological model for enhanced coal bed methane (ECBM) recovery

process: A case study from the Jharia coalfield region, India
Sugata Kumar Sinha, Saurabh Datta Gupta ∗
Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, India

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: Coal produces thermal energy, and it is a storehouse of natural gas in the form of coal bed methane (CBM). CBM
Enhanced coal bed methane is unconventional energy and it has high demands in the current energy market for advanced and developing
In field gravity data analysis countries. To rejuvenate of CBM production requires robust analysis of the subsurface geology. Enhanced coal
Barakar formation
bed methane (ECBM) is a recovery process through which CBM production enhances. The process needs an
Jharia coalfield
Integrated geological model
integrated study of the subsurface geology. A perspective of being a sink for anthropogenic releases of CO2 is
observed in coal and at the same time based on a variety of viewpoints coal is considered as excellent geologic
storage. ECBM recovery process through CO2 sequestration in the CBM reservoir is significantly involved in CBM
production and it is controlled by several geological factors. In view of the present condition of the CBM reservoir
in the Jharia area of eastern India, this study has been conducted to know the geological potentiality for ECBM
recovery process of the Barakar formation in this region. Understanding of geological condition of the Barakar
formation is essential for CO2 storage. The structural and sedimentary analysis has been conducted based on
gravity data which has been supported by well log data in fine-scale. Proximate analysis and hydrodynamic
analysis were performed based on available samples of the study area. The other parameters such as the esti­
mation of pressure based gas volume were also analysed. This integrated analysis based on field acquired
geophysical data and the laboratory analysis of the collected samples shows the encouraging result for ECBM
recovery process through CO2 sequestration in the Jharia coalfield area.

1. Introduction economically viable. In early 1733, the process for separation of CBM
gas was introduced in the mines of Great Britain. In the current scenario,
Coal reservoir acts as an essential source for natural gas production the developed countries North America, Europe, China, and Australia
under the unconventional energy category. Coalbed methane (CBM) is a are interested in clean energy resources which drive these countries to
natural gas which is trapped in the coal matrix. CBM gas is a part of clean the mining of CBM. A developing country like India has enormous po­
energy resources and it produces less greenhouse gas (GHG) compare to tentiality for CBM gas production as India has a huge coal reservoir and
the coal after burning. The property of the natural gas for both con­ at present India is 3rd largest country for production of coal in the world.
ventional and unconventional reservoir is equivalent. It is observed that The annual coal production of the country will reach over 1000 million
about 95% of pure methane (CH4) content in the natural gas from the tonnes by 2020 (Report published in [Link], 2019)
unconventional reservoir and this gas is formed from the thermogenic which shows the demand of fossil fuel of the country. The report says
activities of the buried plants material (Singh, 2010). The generation of that 7% of required natural gas of the country will be fulfilled by CBM
CBM gas takes place through the biogenic activities of microbial which and which will increase in the later stage (Report published in Director
leads to the decomposition of the plant materials at about 300 ◦ F tem­ General of Hydrocarbon (DGH), 2007). The Damodar river valley basin
perature within the required pressure composition. Generally, the is one of the significant sources of production for coal as well as CBM gas
calorific value of the CBM ranges from 8500 kcal/kg to 9000 kcal/kg. production. The basin is globally recognized for the production of good
Initially, CBM treated as a dangerous gas for deep coal mining. This gas quality of coal. The current study has been conducted in the Jharia re­
intentionally would have been taken out from the mine to avoid the gion which situates in the Jharkhand state of India. The study area sit­
accident and during that time the production of the CBM gas was not uates in the Damodar basin is well known for coal production. Presence

∗ Corresponding author.
E-mail address: saurabh@[Link] (S.D. Gupta).

[Link]
Received 28 April 2020; Received in revised form 22 November 2020; Accepted 30 January 2021
Available online 10 February 2021
0920-4105/© 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

of thick high-quality coal seam of the Damodar basin shows the poten­ unconventional resource. Geological parameters play a vital role in the
tiality of CBM gas production. The prognostic reserves of the CBM gas development of good CBM gas reservoirs and these parameters are
are 700 BCM in the Damodar basin out of the country’s total reserve of equally significant for ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection.
2600 BCM (Report published in Director General of Hydrocarbon, Understanding of details geological model of the reservoir is essential to
2007). Continuous exploration in this region shows the depletion revive a deplete CBM gas reservoir after phase-2 before adopting the
signature of the CBM gas reserve in the basin. ECBM recovery process (Amos and Featherstone, 2003) (Anderson et al.,
The potentiality of the CBM gas production has been proved in the 2009). Structural and sedimentary analysis of the coal reservoir is
study area. The testing results of the drilled CBM wells in this area have essential for understanding the CBM gas storage. The initial character­
shown huge potentiality however at present the wells are not in the ization of the coal seam is carried out based on the analysis of the
production phase. At present, the major concern in the study area is the depositional environment of the wetland (Bhanja and Srivastava, 2008)
limited facility for supply of CBM gas. Proper utilization of the CBM gas (Blakely, 1995). This geological interpretation shows the chances for
yet to be done in the study area due to limited facilities. Other significant CO2 injections for ECBM recovery process. Geometrical distribution and
concern of the CBM exploration in the study area is scattered plan of transmissivity of the coal seam for production of CBM gas are controlled
drilling of the CBM wells. Robust development of surface facilities for by geological parameters such as sedimentations, folding, faulting and
supply of CBM gas will be carried out in the study area in the near future fracturing (Braitenberg and Ebbing, 2009) (Braitenberg et al., 2011).
for proper utilization of CBM gas and much needed clean energy re­ These geological parameters control the quality of the coal such as type,
sources in the Jharia region will be established. However, the scatter rank and grade. The ability of the coal seam to store and transmit the
drilling plan of the CBM wells may hamper the reservoir health and fluid in the seam is also controlled by geological factors. Production of
production of the CBM gas may be hampered due to underutilization of CBM gas and its related ECBM recovery process depends on essential
the drilled CBM wells in the current scenario. In this way, the CBM gas petrophysical properties such as porosity, permeability, water satura­
production can go to the plateau period very quickly in the wells. In such tion are significantly controlled by like cleat and nearly spaced fracture
a scenario the demand of the CBM gas in the study area will not be system which is a part of major geological changes (Carroll and Pashin,
fulfilled as per the supply. The current study shows the chances for en­ 2003). Other than geological study, to control the CO2 injection both
hances the production of CBM gas based on Enhanced Coal Bed Methane hydrodynamic and geothermic study is significant for ECBM recovery
(ECBM) recovery process in the Jharia coalfield region to meet the process. The established result of the geothermic analysis shows the
requirements. burial history of the Barakar coal seam of Lower Permian (Pareek and
ECBM process enhances the production of CBM gas through further Bardhan, 1985) age through the thermal maturity index study. The
simulation of the existing reservoir. In India, there is an enormous de­ hydrodynamic study is an essential part of CBM gas reservoir to capture
mand for natural gas. The conventional reservoir for the production of the large volume of water and gas quantity in the coal seam, the study of
natural gas is unable to match the demand whereas a major source of the water chemistry and hydrostatic reservoir pressure analysis is required
natural gas is based on export from the other countries to meet the de­ (Chatterjee and Ghosh, 1970). Reservoir capacity and dynamic proper­
mand. India does have a significant source of CBM gas which can fulfil ties of the reservoir for ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection
the demand up to a major extent. As per the documented information, are controlled by hydrodynamics and geothermic study. The current
the shale gas exploration in India is not fully established whereas work significantly focuses on the preparation of the integrated geolog­
exploration of CBM has already established its potentiality as uncon­ ical model in the study area. The role of this integrated geological model
ventional energy resources. In India CBM gas will occupy a major source is undeniable for the feasibility of ECBM recovery process through
of energy very soon and Damodar basin of eastern India will a significant characterize the Barakar coal seam. The study area does not have
source of this CBM gas. The nature of the CBM reservoir and its pro­ continuous geophysical data which can reveal the information of the
duction shows a different trend than the conventional reservoir. The sub-surface geology particularly changes of the coal seam in form of
production of CBM gas passes through three major phases - I) Dew­ structural and depositional changes. Preparation of an integrated
atering phase, II) Production phase and III) Decline phase. In phase-I geological model for a feasibility study of the ECBM recovery process
production of water is high with respect to CBM gas for reduction of without continuous geophysical dataset is difficult. The number of
reservoir pore pressure and in the phase-II gas production rate will reach drilled wells are not adequate and these are limited to one region which
to the maximum point in comparison to water production whereas in the is unable to represent the geological changes in the whole area of the
3rd phase declination of gas production is observed (Wahid et al., 2018). Jharia coalfield. In the current study, a relation in between CBM gas
The fall of the gas production rate is observed from the maximum point reservoir and the exposed coal seam of the open cast mine shows the
of production. However, in the 3rd phase, the production rate of the regional changes of the coal seam in the study area and leads a good
water is observed as negligible also. Declination in the production rate of integrated geological model. The integrated geological model provides
the CBM wells in the Jharia and its related surrounding area such as overall information of the whole study for ECBM recovery process
Bokaro leads to be a major concern for the sustainability of the CBM field whereas a comparative study of the samples from both the area (open
and meet the demand in eastern India. ECBM process can enhance the cast mine and present CBM reservoir) for coal quality, rank and gas
production rate after phase-3 and maintain the production with phase-2. holding shows a good chance for gas recovery through ECBM process in
This ECBM process works as a tertiary recovery (EOR - Enhanced Oil the Jharia coalfield region.
Recovery) of the matured conventional oil field (Damen et al., 2005). A robust integrated geological model was not performed earlier for
Jharia coalfield of the Damodar basin has shown has the potentiality of the feasibility of CO2 injections towards the ECBM recovery process. In
CBM gas production however for recovery from declination phase needs absence of continuous geophysical data, a regional level correlation was
details integrated geological model. The present research work focuses not conducted. The concentrated position of the drilled wells makes the
that part for ECBM recovery process of methane gas-based on available earlier study more difficult. In an earlier study in the Jharia coalfield
geophysical data. region was conducted for techno-feasibility study for long term ECBM
The process for enhancement CBM gas through ECBM recovery recovery through geological sequestration based on a numerical simu­
technique can be carried out through two option -I) CO2 injection and N2 lation model where involvement of anthropogenic CO2 has been shown
injection in the CBM gas reservoir. The current study proposes the op­ (Vishal et al., 2018). The other studies in the area for ECBM recovery
portunity of CO2 injection for ECBM recovery process in the Jharia process were concentred on sorption capacity (Kumar et al., 2019) and
coalfield region, especially in the present matured CBM gas reservoir adsorption isotherm (Asif et al., 2019). However, the current study
area. emphasizes the other part of the feasibility for ECBM recovery process
CBM gas is stored in the continuous strata of the coal seam as an through CO2 injection where the integrated geological model has been

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

developed and a comparative analysis of the samples from the open cast end of the Paleozoic period of the first Pangean expansion. Sedimenta­
mine with presents CBM reservoir has been represented. tion took place in this depression and the Gondwana Supergroup was
Here we conduct this study near Parbatpur region of the Jharia evolved through the process of deepening of the basin along with
coalfield based on the analogue and available field data to establish the thickening of sediments vertically (Biswas, 1999). A thick continental
potentiality of ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection. At present sedimenta are observed during permo-carboniferous time period
the area is established for CBM gas production. The analysis of coal through continetal drift (Crowell and Frakes, 1972). If we focus into the
samples have been carried out on collected samples from the open cast geology of the Indian plate during this time then depositional sequences
mine in the Bera region of Jharia coalfield. Mainly proximate analysis of the Lower Gondwana group are identifed in the various basin of the
was conducted over the collected coal samples. The areal distance be­ peninsular India (Mahadevan, 2002).
tween Parbatpur and Bera is approximately 13 km and both are coming The Jharia coalfield lies in one of such basins which is known as
under Jharia coalfield (Fig. 1). The hydrodynamic study has been car­ Damodar river valley basin and primary resouces of coal in India (Ghosh
ried out based on available water from the CBM gas reservoir of the and Ghosh, 1990). Deposition of the sediments in the Damodar basin is
Parbatpur region whereas the collected coal samples are from the Bar­ overved over Archean metamorphic or Proterozoic rock in the form of
akar formation of the Bera open cast mine. The fresh coal samples of the sickle-shaped nature with a east-west trending sequance (Ghosh and
Barakar formation were collected 200 m below from the surface. The Mukhopadhay, 1985) where major coalfields such as Jharia, Raniganj,
significant part of the study focusses on the integrated geological for Bokaro, Karanpura and Ramgarh are present. The boundary between the
ECBM recovery process (Abdul et al., 2013). The model has been pre­ Archean – Gondwana age situates towards the north-eastern part of the
pared based on drilled well data of the three wells from the and earlier basin in form of a semicircular arch (Ghosh, 1999). However the basin
acquired (acquired in 1977) existing 2D gravity data (Verma and Ghosh, looks like ellipse as a whole and surrounds by the horst structure of
1974; Verma et al., 1976, 1978, 1979). The three wells were drilled in Precambrian gneiss (Ghosh, 1990) with a dip of 5◦ –10◦ . Several small
the Kapuria area. The cross-sectional alignment of the existing gravity open and elongated dome strures are observed in the basin. Number of
profile over CBM gas reservoir helps to capture the structural variation faults are observed in the deposited Gandwana sediments, this features
of the reservoir significantly which plays a significant role for CO2 in­ are more prominent in the coalfields of the Damodar valley area (Fox,
jection. Lithological variations within the Barakar formation are 1930).The boundary fault is significant part of strutural description and
captured through the changes of the wireline log data and it has been it is also known as a northwest-southwest fault with asteep dipping of
represented through Boolean logic in the wells. The lithological varia­ 70◦ . A few major outcrops are visble in the souther part of the key
tion and in-situ pressure of the formation consider the estimation of coalfields where dipping of beds are also observed towards south from
sorption isotherm through Langmuir relation for CO2 injection in the north. The first boundary fault is observed in the southern boundary.
study area. The present study shows an encouraging result based on The north part of the block is downthrown by 1500 m. There are large
geological interpretation between Bera, Kapuria and Parbatpur region of numbers of major and minor faults in form of boundary faults. The
the Jharia coalfield. All three areas situates far from the current area oldest rock formation of the basin have been found in the northern part
(Parbatpur) of CBM gas production (Fig. 1) however the current study of the boundary. Gondwana sediments of the Damodar basin are sepa­
represents a regional agreement for potentiality of ECBM recovery rated in the presence of the thin layer of metamorphic rocks (Fox, 1934).
process through CO2 injection in the Jharia coalfield region (Koperna, A continuous and thick sediments are observed when larger part of the
2016). Integrated geological model and analytical study of coal samples peninsular shield was covered by Gondwana. The formation is having
and correlation between two approaches establishes the regional po­ the strike direction along WSW to ENE in the western part and along
tentiality of ECBM recovery process. WNE to ESE in the south-eastern part. The coal seam of the Damodar
basin is part of this sedimentary basin. The denudation process makes
2. Geology of the basin the coal seam separate and represent the current features in the coalfield
region of the study area. The coalfield has been separated from each
To understand the subsurface geological structure a comprehensive other by Precambrian crystalline outcrops. Erosion plays a vital role for
knowledge on the deposition of the rocks and their settlement in the discontnuity in the sedimentary strata in the basin in between coalfields
crust of the earth is required. The topographical and geomorphological (Verma et al., 1979).In the Jharia coalfield, two types of igneous
variations are observed due to changes in subsurface geology, which intrusive are identified which are mica peridotite and the dolerite. The
effects the exploration activity significantly. Few elongated intra­ dykes and sills are occurring in the Jharia coalfield as mica peridotite.
continental and pericontinental depressions were developed during the The geological map of the Jharia coalfield is shown in Fig. 2 (Paul and

Fig. 1. (a) Satellite image shows the full study area of the Jharia coalfield region in reference to Dhanbad Railway Station; (b) the satellite image shows the places -
Kapuria, Bera and Parbatpur region of Jharia coalfield region which are involved in this study; the drilled well data are available in the Kapuria region whereas coal
and water samples were collected from Bera and Parbatpur region; Parbatpur area is proved for CBM gas reservoir in Jharia coalfiled region; the peripheral extension
of these three areas is about 51 [Link] (Google Earth, 2018).

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 2. Geological map of Jharia coalfield with a structural and sedimentary component along with exposed significant formation; it shows Archean basement,
Talchir formation, Barakar formation, shale dominated Barren Measure formation and Raniganj formation; the areas demarked by asterisk represents the study area
(modified after Fox, 1930).

Chatterjee, 2011a,b). In the Jharia coalfield region the thickness of the oldest formation is
observed as 240–250 m. Glacial boulder bed is observed in the lower
part of the Talchir formation. Initially, the Talchir formation was
2.1. Jharia coalfield
developed of boulder bed sandstone and shales along the northern and
north-western border of the Jharia and Raniganj coalfields. It is in an
The stratigraphic succession of the Damodar basin shows the pres­
exposed form in the eastern and western ends of the Bokaro coalfields
ence of Talchir formation under Lower Gondwana group in the Permian
(Heck, 1990) (Huang et al., 2008) (Gupta and Ramani, 1982). The for­
age and places over the Precambrian gneissic basement of Chhotanagpur
mation is primarily builded up by sandstone, shale and conglomerate
Granite Gneiss Complex (Rao, 1987). Damuda and Panchet group places
and it is non-coal bearing formation. The overlying formation of Talchir
above Talchir formation (Mahadevan, 2002) and most of the
is Kaharbari formation of the Damuda series which is a deposition of
coal-bearing formation of the basin come under the Damuda series
fluvial-lacustrine alluvial environment after blackish to the marine
whereas the Panchet formation primarily comprises with shale and
environment. However this formation is not observed in the study area.
sandstone. The Mahadeva formation or Supra-Panchet formation finds
Major coal formations such as Barakar and Raniganj have been spreaded
mainly in the Bokaro basin area near Lugu hill and adjacent to the Jharia
over the Talchir formation in the study area (Bardhan and Ghosh, 1999).
coalfield region. However, the presence of the Panchet Group in the
Two major coal formations have been separated by non carboneferous
Jharia coal basin is not identified. The formation is approximately 600 m
Barren measure formation. In the later stage the Raniganj and Deccan
thick and comprises with sandstone, conglomerate, pebble beds which
trap formation deposited in the Jharia coalfield area of the basin in the
shows glacial –fluvial-lacustrine and marine origin. Description of the
duration of Upper Permian to Jurassic age. After the 1st stage of unco­
stratigraphic succession of the basin has been presented in Table 1
formitybetween Archean basement and the Talchir formation, the 2nd
(modified after Chandra 1992). A prominent unconformity is identified
stage of unconformity separates the Deccan trap formation deposited in
in the Archean basement and Talchir formation along with Damuda
the Jurassic age from the recent deposition. Understanding of stratig­
series. The stratigraphic succession shows that fluvial and
raphy section inline with rock property of the formations is vital for the
fluvio-lacustine sediments of Talchir formation lie over Archean gneiss
development of the integrated geological model. The current study is
basement. The sediments of the basin were deposited during intra­
restricted in the coal bearing Barakar formation which 600–700 m thick
cratonic extenssional phase where sediments of the Talchir formation is
and deposition is observed along east-west direction in the northern part
considered as oldest one.

Table 1
Stratigraphic succession of the Jharia coalfield, Damodar Basin, India (modified after Chandra, 1992).
Age Formation Litho-type Max.
thickness

Recent and Sub- Weathered Alluvium, sandy soil, clay, gravel, etc. 30 m
recent
Unconformity
Jurassic Deccan trap and other igneous activity Dolerite dykes, mica lamprophyre
(intrusion)
Upper Permian Raniganj Fine grained feldspathic sandstone, shales with coal seams 800 m
Middle Permian Barren Measures Buff coloured sandstone, shales and carbonaceous shale 730 m
Lower Permian Barakar Buff coloured coarse to medium grained feldspathic sandstone, grits, shales, carbonaceous +1250 m
shale and coal seam
Upper Carboniferous Talchir Greenish shale and fine grained sandstone 245 m
Unconformity
Archeans Metamorphics

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

and eastern part of the basin. Other than coal the Barakar formation were acquired in these three wells. These data are used for fine strati­
comprises with sandstone, siltstone shale, conglometers, clay along with graphic analysis and sorption pressure calculation of the Barakar coal
cross bedding depostional signatures. The formation has twenty signif­ formation in the study area. This estimation is an essential part for
icant coal seams with a thickness of about 575 m. The Raniganj for­ findings the potentiality of ECBM recovery process through CO2 injec­
mation is another major coal bearing formation paces above Barakar tion in this study.
formation and it two major coal formation have been separted arbi­
trarily by Barren measure formation. Except coal all lithologies of the 3.3. Coal sample data
Barren measure are similar to the Barakar formation whereas thick of
the formation is about 700 m. Structurally the Barren measure formation The coal samples were collected from the open cast mine which
significantly impacted by folds and faults. The topmost layer is an un­ situates at Bera region of the Jharia coalfield. All samples were collected
consolidated surface material in the Jharia coalfield. The quality of the from the Barakar formation which spreads 200 m below from the surface
coal seams is of superior quality. However the quality of coal seam in this area. The samples are pure bituminous coal samples and used for
detoriates with increasing of depth. Coal seams in the Parbatpur and laboratory analysis which was an integral part of the current study. The
Kapuria area follows similar trend of Bera open cast mine under Jharia study shows a correlation between three areas of Jharia coalfield - Bera,
coalfield region. Kapuria and Parbatpur for potentiality ECBM recovery process based on
The Parbatpur block lies in the south eastern part of the Damodar CO2 injection.
Basin. The block is having an area of 18 km2. Half graben structure with
an inlier and double plunging synclines sturtures are present in the area
4. Methodology
towards east-west direction. Several criss cross faults are identified in
the anticlinal structure of this area in the Damodar basin. The dip of the
4.1. Analysis for gravity data
coal seams varies from 4◦ to 25◦ in the various direction of the forma­
tion. The quality of the coalseam in the Parbatpur area is buffed col­
The gravity method is the crucial work for structural and sedimen­
oured and coarse to medium-grained. However, feldspathic sandstone,
tary modeling in this study. Gravity data analysis provides valuable
grits, shales, and carbonaceous shales along with nicely developed cleat
information about the development of the basement and further depo­
system also traced here. The coal reserves in the block are about 800
sition of geological succession. The knowledge of the density of the rocks
MMT. The Kapuria exploration block is covered by different rocks of the
both surface and the subsurface is required for the proper geologic
Barren Measures formation, over which the coal-bearing Barakar for­
interpretation of the gravity anomaly. Over the sedimentary basin, we
mation of the Gondwana Supergroup is present whereas the intrusive of
have negative gravity anomaly since the density of the sedimentary rock
the post-Gondwana periods are also visible in this area.
of the basin is less than the density of basement rock. (Martelet et al.,
2013) (Radhakrishna Murthy 1998; Chakravarthi and Sundararajan
3. Data availability 2007) (Pal et al., 2006). The development of the gravity model to cap­
ture the structural and sedimentary variability was possible based on the
3.1. Gravity survey following analogy. The spatial changes of the subsurface geology of the
study represent by gravity model interpretation. The model was pre­
Classical land gravity survey data was acquired in the Jharia coal­
pared with the integration of well data (Well#1 and Well#2) and digi­
field region during the late seventies with the help of G-12 Lacoste and
tized gravity data. In 2017, Chakravarthi, Mallesh and Ramamma
Romberg gravity meter (gravimeter) with thermostatic constant tem­
represented a classical study on 2.5D approaches coupled with expo­
perature 51.4 ◦ C during the survey (Verma and Ghosh, 1977). The
nential density contrast model (Chakravarthi et al., 2017). This
thermostatic constant temperature is a crucial parameter of such kind of
approach has been adopted here for conducting gravity model.
gravimeter for data acquisition and that was maintained during the
The depth structure of a finite strike sedimentary basin in the car­
whole survey. The data was calibrated based on the required processing
tesian coordinate system in the XY plane is the basic assumption of the
sequences. The base station was established in the nearby academic
building of gravity model. The sedimentary basin has uniform cross-
institution which was popularly known as Indian School of Mines,
section throughout strike length (XY) in the basin Y-axis which is
Dhanbad. The Dhanbad Railway station was identified as standard
perpendicular to the XZ plane (Agarwal and Lal, 1969). The Z-axis is
gravity base station for absolute measurement of gravity data. The data
taken positive, which is vertically downward and the X-axis is along the
was collected from 250 numbers of stations (Verma and Ghosh, 1977).
transverse to the strike of the basin (Chakravarthi et al., 2017). Fig. 3
During calibration of the acquired gravity data, we found the standard
represents the computational sketch towards deriving the gravity model
deviation was set as ±0.03 mgals (Verma and Ghosh, 1977). It was also
for capturing sub-surface geological variation.
observed that the acquired data in most of the station was similar where
The observation of the gravity anomaly is O’(0,r,0) lying on the XY
the error-free value was 0.1 mgals (Verma and Ghosh, 1977). In the
plane and is obtained by integrating the gravity effect due to the element
whole gravity survey, the accuracy of the evaluated Bouguer anomaly
of the entire volume of the basin (Chakravarthi et al., 2017)
was ±0.4 mgals in the Bokaro and Jharia coalfield region (Mehta and ∫∫∫
Murthy, 1957) (Verma and Ghosh, 1977). In the current study, the Δρ(z)dxdydz
Δg2.5D (0, r, 0) = G (1)
earlier acquired gravity data has been remodelled to capture the struc­ 3
/
(x2 + y − r2 + z2 ) 2
tural changes in the study area.
where, G is the Gravitational constant, (x,y,z) is source coordinate,
3.2. Well log data dxdydz is the volume element, r is the offset distance from AA′ from the
origin O (0,0.0), Δρ(z) is the exponential density contrast model (EDCM)
Three wells were drilled in the Kapuria region near Jharia coalfield (Cordell, 1973).
and encountered all major coal seams of Damodar valley river basin. The
Δρ(z) = Δρ∘e− λz
(2)
separation distances of the three wells are around 15 km. The Kapuria
area is placed within a periphery of approximately 7.5 km–11.5 km of Δρ◦ is the density contrast at the ground surface.λ = decay constant.
Jharia coalfield region (Fig. 1). All necessary conventional well log data

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 3. Schematic representation of the depth structure of a finite strike sedimentary basin (solid line in green) and its approximation by a 2.5D finite strike polygonal
source (solid line in blue). The finite strike, 2Y, of the basin prevents one to represent it by a 2D source. Here, r, is the offset distance of a selected profile, AB.
(modified after Chakravarthi, 2017). (For interpretation of the references to colour in this figure legend, the reader is referred to the Web version of this article.)

∫∫ [ ]
ze− λz Y− r Y +r
Δg2.5D (0, r, 0) = GΔρ∘ ̅ + √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅ dxdz
∗ √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅ (3)
(x2 + y2 ) x2 + y − r2 + z2 2
x 2 + y + r + z2

Using the Strokes’ theorem to the above equation:

∮ [ ]
xY − r xY + r
Δg2.5D (0, r, 0) = GΔρ∘ e− λz ∗ arc tan √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅
̅ + arc tan √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅ dz (4)
z x 2 + y − r 2 + z2 z x2 + y − r2 + z2

The polygon as the solid green line in Fig. 3, is taken as the outline of Zj+1 is the coordinate at depth D, the coordinate at the depth D, the x
the basin (the x-term in equation (4) has been written for the jth side for coordinate is xj+1. The total gravity effect is given as,
CD as,
∑
N

x = a + zcoti (5) Δg2.5D (0, r, 0) = Δgj (0, r, 0) (7)

j=1

where a = xj-zjcoti, i = the angle made by the side CD with x-axis (xj,zj) is N is the number of sides of the polygon. When the regional back­
the vector coordinate. ground is present,Ψ, the gravity anomaly for the basin is given by,
Using the above mentioned equations we get, the gravity effect for Δgtotal(0,r,0) = Δg2.5D(0,r,0) +Ψ (7)
the polygon,

zj+1 [ ( ) ( ) ]
∮ a + zcoti Y − r a + zcoti Y + r
ΔgCD (0, r, 0) = GΔρ∘ e − λz
∗ arc tan √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅
( ) + arc tan √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅
( ) dz (6)
2 2 2 2
zj z (a + zcoti + Y − r + z2 z (a + zcoti + Y + r + z2

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Where N = Nobs . In forward modelling the depth of the basin is

calculated from the forward difference approximation.

zk+1 k k
Bi = zBi + ΔzBi (11)
( )
− 1 λ[Δgobs (xi ) − Δg2.5D (xi )]
ΔzkBi = log 1 − − λzkB
(12)
λ 2πGΔρo e i

where,’k’ is the number of iterations.

Using the information from the density of the lithology of the
geological formation, a relation between density contrast (Δρ) with
depth (z) has been demonstrated in Fig. 4. The exponential relation
between the density contrast (Δρ) (gm/cc) and depth (z) (km) is used for
Fig. 4. The considered gravity profile shows an exponential relation shows the forward modelling of the gravity profile.
between the density contrast (Δρ) (gm/cc) and depth (z) (km).

4.3. Lithology identification from well log data

∑
N1
Ψ= fi xi (8)
i=0 The drilled well data shows that three wells (Well#1, Well#2 and
Well#3) are encountered in multiple lithologies under Barakar forma­
N1 is the degree of the polynomial and x is the observer location on
tion. The possible lithology and structural variation between Parbatpur,
the profile. The structural anomaly in the gravity profile is observed
Kapuria and Bera region of Jharia coalfield captured through drilled
which has been estimated from Bouguer gravity map. The interval of xi €
well (Well#1, Well#2 and Well#3) data correlation (Fig. 1). These are
[0,34] km. The density contrast assumed have decreased with the depth.
available well data drilled in the possible best location for conducting
The gravity anomaly is having the highest value of 14 mgal at a distance
lithological and structural correlation between Kapuria, Parbatpur and
18 km from the origin (Radhakrishna Murthy, 1998).
Bera region of Jharia coalfield which is within 51sq. km peripheries. We
observed most lithology variation in Well#1 and 2 whereas Well#3 was
4.2. Error estimation of the gravity profile full of sandstone. Four major coal section in the Barakar formation
identified during estimation lithology in Well#1 and Well#2. Few minor
Estimation of density of the rock samples has been identified keeping thin coal seams encountered during drilling of these wells however only
with the lithological variation of the sub-surface geology. The response significant thick coal seam of Barakar formation considered for further
curve of the gravity has been obtained based on forwards modelling analysis. This major coal seam is suitable for ECBM production through
which reveals the geological structure. For further optimization in the CO2 injection in this area (Pal and Mazumder, 2012) (Kim, 1997). We
result, the obtained outcome from the forward modelling has been captured the structural and lithological variation through drilled well
compared with the observed anomaly of gravity data. The optimizations correlation. Five significant zones identified during well correlation
have been made mostly based on adjusting the depth of the sub-surface based on well log data variation in the Barakar formation. The lithology
layers, the extension of the fault structure. This process reduces the classification of Barakar formation conducted based on cutoff values of
difference between observed and predicted anomaly of the gravity well log data such as gamma-ray, density, and shallow resistivity log
result. It has been assumed that the structural model of the study area is (Paul and Chatterjee, 2011) (Datta Gupta et al., 2012). The estimated
an infinitely extending horizontal slabs in which the density contrast cut-off of well log data representing a real picture of the formation. The
gradually decreases with depth (Cordell, 1973).; this assumption has gamma-ray value of Well#1 and Well#2 has more than 160 API value
been considered based on gravity anomaly of considered profile. whereas for Well#3 it is very less even less than 60 API. In view standard
The slab thickness can be estimated as, distribution of scale, the ranges of distribution was set at 0 to 150 API.
− 1
(
λgBi
) We found variation in density log for well 1 and 2 whereas we found
z Bi = 1− (9) hardly variation in density log for Well#3. The scale of density log was
λ 2πGΔρo
set as 0 to 3 gm/cc in linear scale and 0.2 to 2000 for resistivity log in the
where, gBi is the gravity anomaly at any station i(xi). The root mean logarithmic log for lithology identification. The density cut-off value
square error is obtained from the difference between the observed, was set as “2”, below of this value the coal lithology identified in well log
Δgobs (xi ) and the model gravity response Δg2.5D (xi )(Chakravarthi et al., data of three wells (Chatterjee et al., 2012). The shale, sandstone and
2017). siltstone lithology identified based on gamma-ray and resistivity cut-off
√̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅ value. Five zones have been identified based on the variation of lithol­
∑N 2 ogies in the study wells (Table 2).
i=1 [Δgobs (xi ) − Δg2.5D (xi )]
Jrms = (10)
Nobs
4.4. Hydrodynamics study

Table 2 The hydrodynamic study is essential part feasibility analysis of CBM

Depth correlation of five zones for the three wells (Well#1, Well#2 and Well#3) production. Water chemistry and reservoir pressure are crucial con­
of the Jharia coalfield. trolling parameters for CO2 injection in coal seam for ECBM production.
ZONES Well#1 Well#2 Well#3 These parameters mostly act as a driving force to do ECBM production.
ZONE-1 (436.5–440.5) m (436.5–440.5) m (567–570) m The water chemistry analysis performed based on collected water during
ZONE-2 (713–763) m (442–489.5) m (572–616) m dewatering from existing CBM wells of Parbatpur region under Jharia
ZONE-3 (769.5–773) m (497.2–499) m (620–621.5) m coalfield area. The water from the coal ranges from potable (TDS < 300
ZONE-4 (775–776) m (502–504.1) m (623–636) m mg/L) to hypersaline (TDS > 36,000 mg/L) (Pavlis et al., 2008, 2012)
ZONE-5 (781–782) m (508.2–519) m (642.5–654) m
(Roland and Denker, 2003) is an essential cut-off of CBM production.

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 5. Experimental setup for measuring the TDS (Total dissolved solids) and the pH of the collected water samples from Parbatpur region of the Jharia coalfield
area; the samples were collected during dewatering process of the CBM gas production wells.

The other important part parameter for water chemistry analysis is Ph Henry and Prausnitz.
and TDS (total dissolved solids) calculation. The experimental set-up of
kπ ( mβ) α
such analysis has mentioned in (Fig. 5) (Peters, 2000) (Pophare and π= 1+ − (18)
σ− β σ σ2
Varade, 2004). The following computational approaches are adopted
during the hydrodynamics study. For the one component adsorption isotherm is given as,
The TDS (Total dissolved Solids) for the CBM water is calculated with ′ [ ]
kθ (m + 1)θ 2αθ
the basic mathematical Equation given as: P= exp − (19)
(1 − θ)m+1 1− θ kTβ
(A − B) ​ ∗1000
TDS (mg / L) = (13) P = Equilibrium pressure, ϴ = σβ (surface area covered by adsorbed
mL Sample
gas molecule). k’ is the Henry Law constant. (Ruthven, 1984),
where, A = weight of filter + dried residue,(mg). B = weight of the filter,
P
(in mg). (20)
′
k = lim
θ→0 θ
For the measurement of pH, we mean to refer to the hydrogen ion
concentration in an aqueous solution. The water dissociates into Adsorption is a reversible physical process (Rudra and Hazra, 2009)
hydrogen ion and hydroxide ion. of gas stored in CBM The necessary information about the adsorption
isotherm of CBM reservoir desorbs factor of the reservoir is required.
H2 O ↔ H + + OH− (14) The desorbs of CBM in coal seam occurs due to the decrease of reservoir
Mean M (Molarity) represents pH in the calculation, pressure and increase of reservoir temperature. Similarly, the adsorption
of gas increases with the increase of pressure and decrease of tempera­
pH = − log 10 [H + ] (15) ture. The factors required for the adsorption of gas in the coal are as
Equation (11) represents the pH estimation form in an aqueous follows:
solution.
(a) Types of coal (adsorbent).
4.5. Pressure and adsorption isotherm calculation (b) Types of gas being adsorbed e.g. CH4, CO2, and other types of gas.
(c) The surface area of the pores and cleats available, which is the
Reservoir pressure and adsorption isotherm are the parameters based microporosity of the adsorbent.
on col reservoir can hold a maximum amount of CBM in the reservoir (d) The pressure and temperature at which gas is being absorbed in
zone. ECBM production significantly depends on the adsorption criteria the adsorbent.
of the reservoir. Adsorption capacity is working through the Vander (e) Some of the secondary factors such as moisture, ash content and
Wall forces between the of CBM molecules in the reservoir. the oxidation state of the coal.
The Vander Waals equation is an essential equation for the adsorp­
tion for the CO2 in the coal. Henry and Pransnitz gave the two- The pores and the cracks present in the coal surface get adsorbs on
dimensional van der Waals equation given by: (Hoory and Prausnitz, the surface of the coal and gradually goes into the internal surface of the
1967), coal (Diamond and Levine, 1981). The flow rate of the gas inside the coal
is determined by the pressure difference, Prock – Pwellbore, where Prock is
π=
KT
−
α
(16) the hydrostatic pressure (Sahay, 2009) (Sengupta, 1980). For the
σ− β σ2 adsorption capacity of the CO2 in the coal seam of the Barakar Forma­
tion, the Langmuir isotherm equation (Langmuir, 1918) has been used to
π is the spreading pressure, and K is the Boltzmann constant. αand β are estimate the CO2 adsorption capacity (Verma et al., 2006). The Lang­
characteristics constant. T is the absolute temperature. muir isotherm is given by:
A
σ = (17) V = VL
P
(21)
N na (PL + P)
A is the surface area per unit weight (Zheng and Gu, 1998) for the
adsorbent. N is Avogadro’s number. na is the number of moles of where, V = Volume of gas adsorbed (Std. m3/t, daf), P = Equilibrium
adsorbed gas in per unit weight of adsorbent. Σ is the surface area. The pressure (MPa), VL = Langmuir volume (Std. m3/t, daf), and PL =
Vander Waals equation in the two dimensional for the adsorption by Langmuir pressure (MPa).

8
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 6. Experimental setup for the preparation of the collected sample for obtaining 72 mesh; Fig. 6(a), (b) and 6(c) represent the arrangement of the experimental
setup; in Fig. 6(d) it shows 10 numbers of samples of 1 gm each in a silicon plate to measure ash content; in Fig. 6(e) it shows 10 numbers of samples of 1 gm each in a
glass plate to measure moisture content whereas 6(f) is showing the 10 samples of 1 gm in a silicon cylinder for measuring the volatile matter. (For interpretation of
the references to colour in this figure legend, the reader is referred to the Web version of this article.)

4.6. Proximate analysis of coal 4.7.3. Moisture content determination

As per the guidelines [15:436(Part/Section 1)-1964], Moisture con­
A couple of steps are adopted during proximate analysis for findings tent of coal was established using standard test method [15:1350 (Part1)
coal quality of Jharia coalfield. The details of the adopted steps are − 1984]. 1 g of 72 mesh size air-dried coal sample taken in a glass cru­
mentioned below. cible and was then put inside an electronic hot air oven, at 110 ◦ C ± 3 ◦ C.
The glass crucible with dried coal sample was heated for 1 h. The sample
4.7. Sample collection was then cooled for 15 min. After it is cooled, the samples were weighed.
The calculation was done using
Samples of coal have been collected from the seams of the Barakar
W2− W3
formation from the Bera open cast coal field with a depth of about 200 % Moisture = ∗100 (22)
W2 − W1
m–400 m from the surface. Samples were collected from exposed coal
surface from the open cast mines. Coal quality (Proximate analysis) was
done to calculate the rank, Gas content, Vitrinite Reflectance, etc. of coal
(Harinandan Kumar et al., 2015).

4.7.1. Petrographic analysis

Coal petrographic evaluation is a method which is used to estimate
the coal rank, degree of coalification and it the amount of maceral
content present. It helps to divide the coal on the basis of chemical
composition. This study determines the coal rank, vitrinite reflectance
and another parameter which help to estimate CBM potential of the
particular seam. Proximate analysis of coal samples in the dried state has
been evaluated (Harinandan Kumar et al., 2015).

4.7.2. Proximate analysis

The sample is named in the S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9 and S10
respectively. Then the sample is separated into 30 samples having an
approximate weight of 1 g each in 10 silicon plates, 10 glass plates and
10 silicon cylinders (Fig. 6) for the ash content, moisture content and
volatile matter content respectively (Acharyya, 2000) (Yang et al.,
2006).
Fig. 7. Digitized Bouguer gravity map based on acquired gravity data from
land gravity survey of the Jharia coalfield region (Verma and Ghosh, 1974;
Verma et al., 1976, 1978, 1979).

9
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

where W1 = weight of the coal sample + glass crucible (g) (before (1993), which is given by:
heating), W3 = weight of the glass crucible, W3 = weight of coal + glass %Ro = − 2.712 ∗ log (VM) + 5.092 (26)
crucible (g) (after heating). (Harinandan Kumar et al., 2015).
The vitrinite reflectance (Ro%) which has been calculated ranges
4.7.4. Volatile matter content determination from a maximum value of 1.55% to a minimum value of 0.927%. A
Samples of coal have been prepared with the method [1 S:436 considerable correlation value of Ro with depth, volatile matter and
(Part1/Section1)-1964]. Approximately 1 g of 72 mesh samples of air- fixed carbon have been observed where the maximum R2 values show
dried coal samples taken in VM crucible. The samples are placed in a 99.45% whereas a minimum of R2 is 13.4%.
muffle furnace at 900 ◦ C for exactly 7 min. With the help of tongs, the
VM crucible was taken out and cooled in the air for 15 min and weighed 5. Result and discussion
again. The calculation is done as:
5.1. Gravity model and well log interpretation
W2− W3
%VM = = ∗100 (23)
W2 − W1 The length of the earlier acquired 2D gravity profile is 30 km. The
acquired data along the profile was digitized from the developed Bou­
4.7.5. Ash and moisture content determination guer map (Pal and Majumdar, 2012) in the Jharia coalfield region
Sample of coal has been prepared with the method [1 S:436 (Part1/ (Fig. 7). The residual Bouguer anomaly was prepared after differenti­
Section1)-1964]. Approximately 1 g of72 mesh sample of an air-dried ating regional gravity field. The residual Bouguer anomaly shows the
coal taken in a silica crucible. The crucible was heated at 800 ◦ C for 1 minimum value of − 14mgals to − 15mgals in the central part of the
h. The sample was then cooled and weighed and calculation is done as: basin which is near to Bark and in an around of Mahuda and Dubrajpur
W3− W1 area (Fig. 7). Based on geological heterogeneity one section named AB
% Ash = ∗100 (24) was assumed which passes through the central part of the basin. This
W2 − W1
section represents the regional cross-section of the Jharia coalfield and it
The moisture content and volatile matter content measured of each 1 was used for developing the geological model based on gravity data.
gm sample in the furnace at 110 ◦ C for 1 h and at 900 ◦ C for 7min The profile shows the extension of the captured data from the
respectively (Kumar and Sahay, 2001). western part to the eastern part of the Jharia coalfield. We have iden­
tified that the elevation of the study area from mean sea level (MSL)
4.7.6. Fixed carbon determination varies from 20 m to 200 m. This parameter was used during preparation
The amount left after evaporation of volatile material, moisture and of the gravity model (Geosoft, 2008). Fig. 8 shows the full-scale
ash are known as fixed carbon. The fixed carbon is calculated by using geological model of the study area which was supported by well log
the formula as: (Harinandan Kumar et al., 2015). interpretation (Nelson, 2000). The model shows the distribution of
% FC = 100 − (%M + %VM + %A) (25) sediment deposition with the involvement of structural changes. The
model shows the extension of the sediment deposition in the basin which
The laboratory analysed information from the proximate analysis the approximately 1.6 km. The deepest part and thickest sediment supply
vitrinite reflectance (Ro %) is calculated from the relation given by Rice

Fig. 8. Development of geologocal model based on available gravity data in the study region; the length of the gravity profile is 30 Km; the considered profile passes
through Well#1 and Well#2; the model shows the detail architecture of the subsurface geology in the study region; structural and sedimentary variations along with
multiple faults from the Basement to Barren Measure has been presented in this model.

10
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

have been found in the Mahuda region of the basin. Steeply dipping for developing a good CBM gas reservoir and for tertiary recovery
faults have been identified in the boundary area of the basin especially (ECBM) in the latter stage from CBM gas reservoir. The geological model
in the southern part where 800 m throw has been in the downthrown of gravity data shows significant depth variation throughout the profile
side of the fault towards the northern direction of the fault. Primarily in the basement which is approximately from 500 m to 1500 m. The
four formations such as Basement, Talchir formation, Barakar formation variation of the overline formation has also been affected due to the
and Barren Measures formation have been identified from the model variation of the basement and this has been prominently identified in the
(Mazumder et al., 2006). The Talchir formation shows a little exposure Barakar formation. The variation of depth in the basement develops
in the study area in comparison to the other formations. The Talchir several types of accommodation space throughout the succession, as a
formation has been truncated in the Barakar formation in the study area. result, the coal-bearing Barakar formation thickness also varies. Struc­
Based on the variations of the physical property of the different for­ tural geology is the basic component for the CO2 sequestration. The
mations lithological characterizations have been performed. Granitic evaluated structural model of the Barakar formation along with a
gneiss is the major component of the basement whereas truncated Tal­ basement and Barren Measure provides significant prior information to
chir formation shows the presence of shale. Alternations of coal and identify the zone for CO2 injection towards ECBM recover process. The
sandstone are prominently observed in the Barakar formation. The Talchir formation in this profile shows little acceptance for the study of
Barren measure formation represents the presence of sandstone in the ECBM recover process as it shows truncation with Barakar formation
study area. The model shows a thick and continuous deposition of sed­ with a small extension of 7 Km out of 30 Km profile. The primary
iments in the Barakar formation. We have identified the presence of mechanism for CO2 sequestration is structural trapping which is much
significant fault structures in the study area from basement to the Barren similar to the mechanism to trapping of the oil and gas in the conven­
Measure formation. tional reservoir. In this mechanism, cap rock plays a vital role in sealing
The 30 km profile line shows six major faulted blocks with a signif­ towards CO2 injection. In the current study, the Barren Measure for­
icant throw of the faults (Fig. 8). F1 and F7 faults are the boundary faults mation acts as a cap rock for the sealing mechanism for CO2 injection
of the study profile. The nature of all faults (F1 to F7) is normal and major through acts of viscous force. Identified six fault blocks in the model
changes of the coal successions have been observed in the geological show a robust mechanism for long term structural trapping. This reason
model from one fault block to another fault block. CBM gas reservoir shows that he southwestern part (Partbatpur area) of the Jharia coalfield
sensitive with the changes of the coal facies in the formation. The major is the prospective zone for ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection
structural changes will affect to the CBM gas reservoir. A comprehensive and coal seam present in between F4 and F6 is most suitable spot for
view of the fault structure in the study profile provides knowledge about injection of CO2. The model reveals another crucial information for CO2
structural changes in the Barkar formation. The identified six compart­ injection which shows the higher chances for the nature of fault sealing.
ments will be highly impactful for the finding of potentially for ECBM The discrete distribution of the required coal seam in between fault
recovery process in the study area. The model shows a detailed archi­ blocks makes this concept [Link] evaluated geological model rep­
tecture of the Barakar formation in the study area. The maximum resents a comprehensive knowledge of structure and sediment deposi­
thickness of the formation has been observed in between F4 and F5 fault tion of the Parbatpur region. It shows a good possibility for ECBM
block whereas in the north-western part the formation is exposed to the recovery process through CO2 injection in the Parbatpur area. However,
surface which is observed in the Jharia coalfield. In the central part of if we look at the southeastern and northeastern part of the Jharia
the Jharia coalfield, the thickness of the coal seam is around 500 m. This coalfield we will find a shallow structure with limited entrapment which
seam has been extended from the central part to the southern part of the is not favourable for ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection. The
Jharia coalfield region towards Parbatpur region ((Mukhopadhyay, developed geological model shows a good agreement with drilled well
1984). The model shows the nature of the extension of coal seam data situates in Kapuria which 9 Km away from Parbatpur. Apart from
prominently. The thickness of the coal seam is a significant parameter the structural parameter, the other suitable parameters such as pressure

Fig. 9. A structural correlation has been established between three wells (Well#1, Well#2 and Well#3) in the study area; five major zones have been identified in
this structural correlation; to get a comprehensive knowledge on the structural changes in the deepaer part the top well marker of zone 1 has been flattened.

11
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 10. Fine level of lithology has been identified based on standard well log cut-off in gamma-ray, density and resistivity well log data of all three wells (Well#1,
Well# 2 and Well#3); the lithology has been identified based on Boolean algorithm; Well#1 and Well#2 shows significant presence of coal seams of the Barakar
formation along with shale, sandstone, and minor siltstone whereas the well log signature shows only sandstone in Well#3; four coal zones have been identified in
Well#1 and Well#2.

and temperature have been derived from well log data. The gravity model represents significant structural folding and faulting
The drilled boreholes Well#1 and Well#2 places near to the identi­ mechanism in the basement (Fig. 8). The post basement depositions
fied gravity profile of the study area. Both the wells have penetrated till follow a mostly similar pattern of as per basement [Link]
the Archean basement through the Barakar and Talchir formation. interpreted result from well data has been validated by Well#3 results.
However, the current study carried out only in the Barakar formation. This study represents an integrated result based on the outcome of

Fig. 11. Estimation of geostatic pressure with depth for all three study wells (Well#1, Well#2 and Well#3) for all five zones; the pressure has been estimated in
deeper section for W#1 and W#2 however pressure estimation in the deeper part for W#3 was not carried out due to limited dataset.

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S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

gravity and well log data with sufficient complements. The variations of Table 4
the sub-surface geology in the Barakar formation have been captured Estimated results of the volume of adsorption in the three wells (Well#1, Well#2
through conventional well log data (Fig. 9). A fine level of structural and Well#3) ate different depth.
correlation has been carried out in these three wells where five zones Well name Depth Estimated results (volume of adsorption)
have been identified in the Barakar formation (Fig. 9). To capture the well#1 706.63 m–712.03 m 178 m3/t at 210 psi (1.44Mpa) pressure
chronological variation of the structure with geological age the top of 764.23 m–770.13 m 212 m3/t at 298 psi (2.05Mpa) pressure
Zone 1 flattened. The purpose for flattened of the well marker was to 776.03 m–781.63 m 218 m3/t at 300 psi (2.06Mpa) pressure
capture the variation of thickness in the coal seam in between three well#2 717.78 m–719.38 m 199 m3/t at 270 psi (1.86Mpa) pressure
761.78 m–793.08 m 212 m3/t at 300 psi (2.06 Mpa) pressure
wells in reference to the top of zone 1. The correlation shows a signifi­
801.78 m–810.08 m 220 m3/t at 310 psi (2.13Mpa) pressure
cant variation of the thickness between three wells. These variations 823.28 m–825.08 m 221 m3/t at 310 psi (2.13Mpa) pressure
between five zones have been observed within 16.5 Km range in refer­ 830.78 m–834.08 m 221 m3/t at 310 psi (2.13Mpa) pressure
ence to Well#1 where the distance between Well#1 to Well#2 is 15.864 841.68 m–847.08 m 225 m3/t at 320 psi (2.20Mpa) pressure
Km and Well#2 to Well#3 is 16.507 Km. Despite the drilled wells are well#3 480.29 m–482.69 m 160 m3/t at 180 psi (1.24Mpa) pressure
492.79 m–497.69 m 165 m3/t at 190 psi (1.31Mpa) pressure
placed approximately 9 km away from the Parbatpur area we have been
observed a good agreement in the sub-surface geology in between two
areas. The 2D gravity profile used in this study used significantly to pressure (Tiab and Donaldson, 2012),
establish this correlation. The structural interpretation which was con­
ducted based on the model derived from gravity data is supported by Pgeo = ρ∗g∗h∗Φ (27)
high resolution well log data. Apart from structural interpretation, the
where ρ is the density value obtained from the density log, g is gravity
interpretation on sediment deposition follows a similar trend between
value at that depth, h is the depth of the well and Ф is the porosity of the
well result and Gravity model except for the fine level of facies variations
formation.
are captured in the well data analysis. Fig. 10 shows the variation of
The integrated study between well and gravity data make the pos­
facies at well level. Capture the facies variation in fine level is essential
sibility of ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection process more
for CBM gas reservoir. The fine level of lithology variations in the Bar­
prominent (Pinetown, 2013). To meet the objective of this study, a fine
akar formation has been captured based on the uses of Boolean algo­
level of geological heterogeneity has been capture through well level
rithm at the well level. The Boolean algorithm works based on a
analysis.
predefined cut-off value of the conventional well log data. The cut-off
values are identified based on rock composition and signature of well
log data. To identify the facies at well level the cut-off values were 5.2. Assessment of proximate analysis and adsorption capacity isotherm
decided based on the three major conventional well log data such as study
gamma ray, density, and resistivity. The analysis identifies five major
facies in the wells such as coal, sandstone, shale, siltstone and sandy To determine the rank and quality, proximate analysis of coal sample
shale. The primary four coal seams of the Barakar formation are present is required which estimates the content of water and carbon of the
in the Well#1 and Well#2. Out of four coal seams, two are deposited in particular sample. This is essential for the study of ECBM recovery
the shallow depth (zone 1 and zone 2) and the other two coal seams are process.
deposited in the deeper part (above of zone 3 and bottom of zone 4)of The potential for the CO2 sequestration in the coal seams of the
the wells in the Barakar formation. Well#3 shows the presence of Barakar formation form three wells, Well#1, Well#2 and Well#3 of the
sandstone only. Facies analysis is carried out at well level whereas Jharia coalfield has been calculated from the petrographic studies of
lithological variation has been captured in the model which shows a various maceral groups and adsorption isotherm studies (Harpalani and
collaboration between broader and finer level analysis between high and Chen, 1995). The cleat present in the Barakar formation is of varying
low-resolution geophysical dataset. The fine level facies analysis shows size in the coal seams of Jharia has an excellent CO2 gas adsorption
the presence of non-reservoir facies such as sandstone, shale, sandy capacity. The rank and maturity of the coal seams in the Jharia coalfield
shale, and siltstone which are responsible for weak adsorption capacity increases with depth (Rice, 1993). This is shown in the increase of the
in CBM gas reservoir. The thickness of the coal seam was also estimated fuel ratio and fixed carbon with depth. The coal sample S5 (depth
from the well log data other than the prediction of lithology. Estimation approximately 50 mbs) shows fixed carbon of (62.23% daf) and fuel
of thickness is an essential part of the prediction of overburden pressure ratio of (2.79%) showing it a high rank and maturity, whereas the S2
of the reservoir which provides knowledge about confining pressure for having fixed carbon content (15.51%) and fuel ratio of (0.45%). Table 3
holding CO2. This pressure is geostatic pressure which is exerted by the shows the details of estimated properties. The coal seams in the larger
formation. This pressure is useful to confine the CO2 into the formation. depth have low ash content and also the capacity to adsorb CO2 in­
Hence the geostatic pressure has been estimated for the three wells creases as the carbon content increases with the depth. In the study area,
(Fig. 11). The following expression has been used for calculating the the gas adsorbed of the coal seam is determined from the Langmuir
expression. The estimation of gas adsorbed volume has been carried out

Table 3
Proximate analysis of the collected coal samples.
Sample No. M VM(daf) Ash FC Fuel Ratio Vitrinite reflectance (Ro%)

S1 2.051583 20.11776 32.048 45.78265 2.275733 1.556692005

S2 1.665835 34.3255 48.49383 15.51484 0.4519917 0.927407139
S3 1.284861 30.21843 11.9776 56.5191 1.8703518 1.077502479
S4 2.35584 28.79286 13.23778 55.61352 1.9315042 1.134419773
S5 1.580559 22.25564 13.92654 62.23726 2.7964717 1.43774253
S6 1.491202 33.61295 48.63143 16.26441 0.4838733 0.952113868
S7 2.154363 30.47002 62.79463 4.580991 0.1503442 1.067737278
S8 1.711346 27.64388 21.13372 49.51106 1.7910318 1.182383683
S9 3.313433 26.75076 19.43543 50.50038 1.8878109 1.221064377
S10 1.268187 21.80028 60.77925 16.15229 0.7409212 1.462090938

M – Moisture content (%), VM – volatile matter (%), FC – fixed carbon (%), daf – dry and ash free basis.

13
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 12. Adsorption isotherm estimates for the Well#1 from the Langmuir expression at different depth of interest: 12 (a) 706.63 m–712.03 m, 12 (b) 764.23
m–770.13 m, and 12 (c) 776.03 m–781.63 m; adsorption isotherm estimates for the Well#2 from the Langmuir expression at different depth of interest: 12 (d)
717.78 m–719.38 m, 12 (e) 761.78 m–793.08 m, 12 (f) 801.78 m–810.08 m, 12 (g) 823.28 m–825.08 m, 12 (h) 830.78 m–834.08 m and 12 (i) 841.68 m–847.08 m;
adsorption isotherm estimates for the Well#3 from the Langmuir expression at different depth of interest such as 12 (j) 480.29 m–482.69 m, 12 (k) 492.79
m–497.69 m.

14
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Fig. 14. A comprehensive analysis of Absolute adsorption (DAF) (cc/gm) and

pressure (kPa) in the Raniganj coalfield area; the analysis was conducted based
on data from Bogra, Nayankuri and Satgram coal mines (modified after Das and
Dutta 2017).
Fig. 13. Aconsolidated result of the petrochemical analysis of the collected coal
samples in the study area; total 10 numbers of samples which are named as S1
to S10 where S1, S3, S4, S5, S8 and S9 samples show an encouraging fixed
production wells of Parbatpur region of the Jharia coalfield area for
carbon ratio whereas the rest of the samples represents high ash content. analysis during dewatering of CBM reservoir. The TDS is 4.12 gm/L,
which is 4120 mg/L at 29 ◦ C. The result from the TDS estimation depicts
that coal formation in the Jharia formation is suitable for CO2 injection
in the coal seam of the Barakar formation which shows suitable criteria
(Sharma and Ram, 1966). As per pH variation is a concern in coal seams,
for CO2 adsorption (Gentzis, 2000). The outcome of the analysis have
there are two consequences. One of the cause is the dissolution of
been described in Table 4 for Well#1, Well#2 and Well#3. From Fig. 12
minerals matter in the coal, secondly due to changes in the surface
(a) to Fig. 12 (c) represents the results of Well#1, from Fig. 12 (d) to
charge. The acidic pH results in the increase of the adsorption capacity
Fig. 12 (i) shows the results for Well#2 (Pophare et al., 2008) whereas
by removing the mineral matter from the pores which block the pore
Fig. 12 (j) and Fig. 12 (k) represents the results of Well#3 (RajaRao,
volume. The acidic pH helps in CO2 storage capacity while the basic pHs
1987). The adsorption capacity of the coal significantly depends on the
does not help in the CO2 because the negatively charged surface be­
petrochemical properties of the sample. Fig. 13 shows a consolidated
comes the more rigid structure of coals with smaller pores (Zahid, 2018).
result of the petrochemical analysis of the collected coal samples in the
It can be said that the pH decreases due to CO2 dissolution in cleat water
study area. We have considered 10 numbers of samples which are named
in the coal seams sequestration increase CO2 storage capacity. The pH
as S1 to S10 where S1, S3, S4, S5, S8 and S9 samples show an encour­
value for the CBM water of the Jharia coal block is 7.51 at 28.8 ◦ C.
aging fixed carbon ratio whereas the rest of the samples represents high
ash content. The relationship between petrochemical properties such as
reflectance (Ro%) and volatile matter (VM%) has been developed with 5.4. Comparative analysis between Raniganj and Jharia coal field
good correlation (R2 = 0.9945) factor. The following relation has been
identified between reflectance and volatile matter based on analysis of The Raniganj coalfield is also a part of the Gondwana coalfield which
collected samples. is similar in nature of the Jharia coalfield as both are situated in the
Damodar basin. The Barakar formation (Early Permian) and the Rani­
R% = − 0.0442VM% + 2.4215 (28)
ganj formation (Late permian) both are significant formation for coal
production and to two-third of the coal reserves of the country are
5.3. Qualitative analysis of hydrodynamics study considered based on these formations. Both the formations place in the
same basin and from same broader geological age however few differ­
The recharge of the coal bed depends on the regional characteristics ences are identified in both formations. The coal seam of the Raniganj
of the subsurface water chemistry. The extnsion of the gravity profile formation is thicker and highly volatile in compare to the Barakar for­
shows presence of continuous coal seam up to 30 Km in the Parbatpur mation. The thickness of the Raniganj formation varies in between 550
region. The estimated parameters have been derived from the water of and 1150 m. The vitrinite content of the coal seam from Raniganj
the CBM reservoir are based on priliminary test result, however, it shows coalfield is also high in compare to the other coalfields of the Gondwana
suitable signature for CO2adsorption capacity in the coal seam. Aciditiy which is 44%–77%. The volatile matter and reflectance of the upper coal
of the water varies with CO2 adsorption in the coal seam. However, the seam of the Raniganj formation is reported as 41%–44% and 0.5%–0.6%
presence of the faults can trap the CO2 in the desired formation. At the respectively where for lower seam it is 36%–41% and 0.7%–0.85%,
surface, they are exposed and conduct fresh, sodium bicarbonate waters respectively. CO2 adsorption isotherm test has been carried out based
which can dissolve solids (TDS) content. The limit can be less than 3000 Langmuir expression at Satgram, Bogra, and Narayankuri coal mines
mg/L at the reservoir depth of the sedimentary basins forming fresh­ area under Raniganj coalfield. The coal seam situates 600 m below from
water plumes with the help of water chemistry analysis; we can deter­ the surface with 3 m thickness. We have been observed that the reservoir
mine the feasibility of whether carbon sequestration. It will be helpful to pressure is about 856 psi, and the pressure gradient is about 0.435 psi/ft.
know about CO2 injection as per regulation. The formation having the Hence the maximum pressure should be in the order of 856 psi to avoid
TDS content lower than 10,000 mg/L is suitable for the underground the fracture in the coal seam. A schematic analysis on pressure and
injection. However, if the formations containing water with TDS lower absolute adsorption capacity has been described in Fig. 14 (Das and
than the 3000 mg/L is prohibited. Only those coalbed methane reservoir Dutta., 2017) where a correlatable trend line has been established in the
is efficiently not suitable for sequestration, which is having very fresh­ Raniganj formation. The Langmuir volume constant (VL) and Langmuir
water formation beside the recharge area. Those formation having TDS pressure constant (PL) of the coal seam in the Satgram, Bogra, and
between 3000 and 10,000 mg/L is exceptionally suitable for the Nayankuri coal mines vary significantly. For all three coal mines, VL
enhanced oil and gas recovery. While the formation which is having TDS varies from 22.64 to 36.48 and PL varies from 2553.47 to 7350.94. We
value above 10000 mg/L, CO2 the injection will be done in coal towards have identified that for VL it shows a similar trend for Bogra and
enhanced coal bed methane recovery. Water was collected from CBM Nayankuri coal mines whereas for PL the similar trend is observed in the

15
S.K. Sinha and S.D. Gupta Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering 201 (2021) 108498

Table 5
A comparison between the Raniganj coalfield and the Jharia coalfield on potentiality of ECBM recovery process through CO2 sequestration (modified after Das and
Dutta., 2017).
Langmuir Parameters for the Raniganj Coal field Langmuir parameters for the Jharia Coalfield

Sample VL (cc/g) PL (kPa) Sample VL (m3/t) PL (MPa)

Satgram 22.64 2553.47 Well#1 (706.63m–712.03 m) 178 1.44

(764.23m–770.13 m) 212 2.05
(776.03m–781.63 m) 218 2.06
Bogra 32.90 2700.71 Well#2 (717.78m–719.38 m) 199 1.86
(761.78m–793.08 m) 212 2.06
(801.78m–810.08 m) 220 2.13
(823.28m–825.08 m) 221 2.13
(830.78m–834.08 m) 221 2.13
(841.68m–847.08 m) 225 2.20
Narayankuri 36.48 7350.94 Well#3 (480.29m–482.69 m) 160 1.24
(492.79m–497.69 m) 165 1.31

Satgram and Bogra coal mines. Table 5 represents a detailed comparison Validation, Writing- Reviewing and Editing.
of the study results in between Raniganj coalfield and Jharia coalfield
area for CBM gas reservoir where this comparative analysis shows about Declaration of competing interest
potentiality of ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection (Dutta
et al., 2011). The comparative analysis shows that the potentiality of The authors declare that they have no known competing financial
CO2 storage is in higher for Jharia coalfield (Partbatpur area) this is also interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence
supported by notable petrophysical property and optimum pressure the work reported in this paper.
holding capacity for holding of CO2 in the Barakar formation of the
Jharia coalfield. Acknowledgment

6. Conclusion We are highly obliged to Prof. R. K Verma and Mr. Debabrata Ghosh
of Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad for extensive work in Damodar
Bera, Kapuria, and Parbatpur all three regions situate under the River Valley basin on Gravity survey with 850 station support. This data
Jharia coalfield area. The current study has been conducted considering used for our current study towards gravity interpretation after digiti­
all three regions within a periphery of [Link]. Well log data availed zation from the published document. Our sincere gratitude to IIT(ISM)
from Kapuria region, samples were collected from Bera region and the Dhanbad towards the support of our research work through TEQIP-II
hydrodynamic study was conducted based on available water sample of (Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme) programme
Parbatpur region. These evaluated studies were supported by the of Government of India. We are profoundly grateful to Prof. Rima
geological model based on gravity data. The cross-sectional distribution Chatterjee, Head, Department of Applied Geophysics, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad
of 2D gravity profile mostly. Covers all three regions of the study. This for her valuable suggestion and technical data support to conduct this
study represents a well defined integrated model for identifying the research work. We convey sincere thanks to ONGC and CIL for valuable
ECBM recovery process through CO2 injection where gravity data, well technical knowledge of different CBM fields in India. We are highly
data, coal sample, and water samples show a significant involvement for obliged for the Department of Applied Geophysics and GQIL laboratory
the conclusion. Analytical fitment of the available data from the three for tremendous support and encouragement towards research. We are
different regions makes this model robust with a strong understanding of highly thankful for the Department of Fuel, Minerals and Metallurgical
geological heterogeneity. Engineering, Department of Chemistry and Department of Petroleum
The thickness of most of the coal layers in the CBM reservoir in the Engineering, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad for providing us with the instrumen­
Barakar formation varies from 1 m to 30 m. The formation contains tation facilities. We would like to give our special thanks to Mr. Joyendu
medium volatile bituminous coal whereas in some of the area high Batabyal ([Link]. PEX) and Miss. Priyanka Gautam (research scholar)
volatile bituminous coals are observed. The vitrinite reflectance also for their immense support.
increases with depth in the study area. The conducted study shows that
presence of a considerable amount of CBM gas in the area. The structural Appendix A. Supplementary data
model, proximate analysis of the coal samples and study of the hydro­
dynamics of the water samples show the potentiality of the ECBM re­ Supplementary data to this article can be found online at [Link]
covery process through CO2 injection. The identified area for ECBM org/10.1016/[Link].2021.108498.
recovery process situates in the vicinity of the central and southern part
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