Canada Nickel and University of Texas Achieve Milestone in Carbon Sequestration at Crawford Project

Introduction
In a groundbreaking development, Canada Nickel Company Inc. has successfully completed a pilot study on carbon sequestration at its flagship Crawford Nickel Project located near Timmins, Ontario. The pilot project, conducted in partnership with the University of Texas at Austin and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (DOE ARPA-E), marks a significant stride in carbon storage technology.

Project Overview
The pilot aimed to inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into the ground to sequester it effectively. The testing showcased an innovative method of storing 12 tonnes of CO2, establishing this approach as a third pathway besides existing carbon capture techniques, such as the In-Process Tailings (IPT) Carbonation and the NetCarb processes utilized by Canada Nickel. Mark Selby, CEO of Canada Nickel, emphasized the project's importance for achieving a Zero-Carbon Industrial Cluster within the Timmins region. This project not only enhances the potential for carbon capture but also reduces future mining costs by pre-conditioning the rock, allowing for easier blasting and processing.

The Role of Engineering and Research
Dr. Estibalitz Ukar, a Research Associate Professor at the University of Texas, remarked on the field trial's implications, stating that carbon capture can be integrated into the mining process from the onset, turning resource extraction into a proactive environmental strategy rather than a reactive measure. During the field test, which spanned from mid-November to mid-December 2025, all activities were managed with extensive monitoring to ensure effectiveness. This involved the injection of CO2-rich water into a well drilled to a depth of 396 meters, confirming that CO2 remained dissolved without leakage.

Technological Innovations
With a comprehensive setup comprising an injection well, monitoring wells, and seismic monitoring stations, the pilot was meticulously designed. No unexpected seismic activity or CO2 leakage was observed, indicating that all injected CO2 was securely stored beneath the surface. The results reinforce the concept that mining practices can evolve to significantly contribute to global decarbonization efforts, while enhancing economic value through responsible resource management.

Future Directions
Looking ahead, Canada Nickel plans continued monitoring of seismic activity, water chemistry, and CO2 containment to ensure ongoing success. This pilot reinforces the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability, as efforts will shift toward incorporating these findings into larger-scale strategies for carbon sequestration post-mining. Understanding and documenting subsurface chemical and fluid flow properties will provide valuable data for future endeavors in sustainable mining.

Conclusion
The collaboration between Canada Nickel and the University of Texas exemplifies how academic research and practical applications can intersect to address critical environmental challenges like climate change. The success of this pilot project not only positions Canada Nickel as a leader in carbon sequestration technology but also serves as a model for mining operations worldwide, showcasing that the industry can indeed play a pivotal role in mitigating carbon emissions. This ongoing commitment to sustainable practices underlines the company's vision for a zero-carbon future, paving the way for responsible mining in harmony with the environment.

For more information about Canada Nickel Company and their innovative projects, visit www.canadanickel.com.