We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the second geoelectric survey by the OGS team at the Castiglioncello magnesite mine in Tuscany (Italy), a key step in our ongoing efforts to understand the dynamics of natural mineral carbonation for long-term CO₂ storage.
This new survey focused on a targeted transect across the mineralisation, building on previous work to deliver high-resolution imaging of the subsurface. The data will enable us to refine our understanding of the continuity and depth extent of the magnesite body and associated alteration zones.
This step is essential for enhancing our geophysical model of the deposit, supporting both scientific interpretation and potential future evaluation of the site as a natural analogue for carbon storage.
Stay tuned for further updates as we integrate these results with geochemical and mineralogical data from the 2025 field campaign!
The CCS Lab aims to be a key player in advancing technologies to reduce CO₂ emissions. Established within the Institute of Geosciences and Georesources, the lab focuses on developing and applying Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Mineral Carbon Capture and Storage (CCMS), technologies essential for a sustainable energy transition.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): A Solution for the Future
CCS is a cutting-edge technology designed to capture CO₂ from hard-to-abate industrial sectors and store it in deep geological formations. This process prevents CO₂ from entering the atmosphere, making a significant contribution to combating climate change and achieving carbon neutrality goals.
CCMS: The Innovative Alternative
CCMS builds upon CCS by utilizing mafic and ultramafic rocks (e.g., basalts, peridotites, serpentinites) that chemically react with CO₂. Through mineral carbonation, CO₂ is converted into stable carbonates (e.g., magnesite, calcite) and stored permanently over geological timescales.
This approach also involves using industrial by-products rich in calcium and magnesium, such as steelmaking and cement residues, providing a sustainable solution for recycling waste materials and reducing emissions. CCMS not only paves the way for a low-carbon future but also fosters a circular economy and helps achieve “end of waste” goals for industrial residues.
The Role of the CCS Lab
The CCS Lab conducts research on CCS and CCMS technologies across diverse geological contexts, with a particular focus on the Mediterranean region. Combining multidisciplinary expertise, state-of-the-art instrumentation, and advanced methods like machine learning and geological modeling, the lab tackles complex challenges such as:
Investigating natural carbonation processes in mafic and ultramafic rocks
Identifying optimal conditions for mineral carbonation
Assessing the effectiveness of CCMS technologies
Mapping suitable CO₂ storage sites in Italy
Conducting feasibility studies and monitoring for CCS and CCMS facilities
Developing scalable, sustainable solutions for large-scale implementation
The CCS Lab’s multidisciplinary approach bridges cutting-edge research with practical applications, driving innovation and supporting a sustainable energy transition.
Contributing to Environmental Sustainability
Through constant research and innovation, the CCS Lab leads the way in carbon storage technologies, offering tangible solutions to global climate challenges. By combining pioneering science with practical applications, the lab accelerates decarbonization efforts.
Learn more about the CCS Lab’s activities and join us in shaping a low-carbon future.
We are excited to announce the successful completion of a seismic survey conducted as part of the STORECO2 project. This survey was carried out by the National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS) and represents a significant milestone in our efforts to characterise the subsurface structures of the study area.
The seismic survey will provide detailed insights into the geological formations, helping us to map subsurface features critical for understanding the potential for CO2 storage and the processes of mineral carbonation. These findings are crucial for assessing the suitability of the site for secure and efficient CO2 sequestration.
This achievement marks an important step forward in the project, and we look forward to sharing more developments soon. Stay tuned for further updates on our progress!
We are pleased to announce the successful completion of a series of a geoelectric survey at the Castiglioncello magnesite deposit (Li) as part of the geophysical analyses by National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS) team as part of the STORECO2 project.
The geophysical surveys allowed us to obtain a detailed three-dimensional representation of the geological structures, helping to identify optimal conditions for carbonation reactions and magnesite formation.
Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing work!
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