Currently energy consumption in the U.S. and globally is dominated by hydrocarbons sourced from the subsurface.  Emerging energy technologies such as geothermal also utilize subsurface technologies.  Wells are engineered conduits to resources in the subsurface and are designed to isolate formation fluids (including oil, gas, brine) from migrating to other formation layers, usable and valuable water resources, and the surface.  Well integrity issues add costs to energy production, impact water resources, safety, and surrounding surface areas.  Basic well construction and proper fluid isolation involves placing steel casing downhole and pumping a barrier material around it.  This session will focus on science advances that ensure the long-term stability of wells and improving fluid isolation through scientific-based innovative technologies, new smart materials, self-healing/sealing materials, advanced processes, or combined approaches to balance society’s energy needs while protecting other valuable resources.

• MR - Mineral and Rock Physics