Gas hydrates
This research is part of a multidisciplinary effort that focuses on developing the technology to produce natural gas from resources that have been classified as unconventional because of their unique geology and production mechanisms. Gas hydrates is one such resource. Current work emphasizes geological studies; characterization of the resource; and generic research, including modeling of reservoir conditions, production concepts, and predictive strategies for stimulated wells. Complementing this work is research on in situ detection of hydrates and field tests to verify extraction methods. The objective is to provide a comprehensive technology base from which estimates of reserve potential can be made, and from which industry can develop recovery strategies. Research has focused primarily on developing a basic understanding of hydrate formation and dissociation in the laboratory and geological characterization. Areas where gas hydrates are likely to occur were identified, and specific high potential areas were targeted for detailed investigation. Laboratory research has included the characterization of the physical system, which focused on creating synthetic methane hydrates and developing synthetic hydrate cores using tetrahydrofuran (THF), consolidated rock cores, frost base mixtures, water/ice-base mixtures, and water-base mixtures. Preliminary gas hydrate production models were developed for both steam injection and reservoir depressurization methods of gas production from gas hydrate formations. Concepts for in situ combustion production, shallow hydrate deposit dredging, and combinations of thermal and depressurization methods were also investigated. 22 refs., 9 figs., 3 tabs.
- Research Organization:
- USDOE Morgantown Energy Technology Center, WV (USA)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- DOE/FE
- OSTI ID:
- 6129491
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/METC-90/0270; ON: DE90015321
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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