Publications Details
Sulphur Extraction at Bryan Mound
Kirby, Carolyn L.; Lord, Anna S.
The Bryan Mound caprock was subjected to extensive sulphur mining prior to the development of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Undoubtedly, the mining has modified the caprock integrity. Cavern wells at Bryan Mound have been subject to a host of well integrity concerns with many likely compromised by the cavernous caprock, surrounding corrosive environment (H2SO4), and associated elevated residual temperatures all of which are a product of the mining activities. The intent of this study was to understand the sulphur mining process and how the mining has affected the stability of the caprock and how the compromised caprock has influenced the integrity of the cavern wells. After an extensive search to collect pertinent information through state agencies, literature searches, and the Sandia SPR library, a better understanding of the caprock can be inferred from the knowledge gained. Specifically, the discovery of the original ore reserve map goes a long way towards modeling caprock stability. In addition the gained knowledge of sulphur mining – subsidence, superheated corrosive waters, and caprock collapse - helps to better predict the post mining effects on wellbore integrity.