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Title: Survey of gas quality results from three gas-well-stimulation experiments by nuclear explosions

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6276057· OSTI ID:6276057

Gas quality results obtained at LLL on samples taken from the three nuclear gas-well-stimulation experiments (Gasbuggy, Rulison, Rio Blanco) are used to illustrate the differences and similarities of the three projects. All of the gas analysis data shown here have been previously published in LLL reports, but heretofore, intercomparisons have been difficult because of the different formats used in the various publications. Also, the data from the three expriments have not previously been manipulated in the same way so that postshot conditions in the three cavity and chimney systems could be compared. As the pressure and temperature increase in the cavity and chimney system (as they do with increasing depth of burial) the amount of water produced with the chimney gas increases markedly. Differences in late-time additions of CO/sub 2/ to the chimney gas were also observed. Previously reported radiological safety studies of the potential effects from the use of nuclearly stimulated gas are discussed, and the required steps that could lead to the possible sale of nuclearly stimulated gas to the general public are listed.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
6276057
Report Number(s):
UCRL-52656
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English