Process to sequester CO2 in natural gas hydrate fields and simultaneously recover methane

Abstract

A method for sequestering and storing CO2 in which gaseous carbon dioxide is injected into a subterranean methane hydrate field, displacing methane in the methane hydrate field with the carbon dioxide and forming carbon dioxide hydrate. The displaced methane may then be collected.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention relates to a process for storage and sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2). More particularly, this invention relates to a process for underground storage and sequestration of carbon dioxide in submerged sea areas of natural gas hydrate deposits. [0003] 2. Description of Related Art [0004] Levels of anthroprogenic greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, in the Earth's atmosphere have been increasing substantially over the years due primarily to the burning of fossil fuels to supply about 80 percent of the world's energy needs. These increased emissions of greenhouse gases are believed responsible for a one degree Fahrenheit increase in the global average temperature over the past several years and if nothing is done to reduce them, the Earth will continue to warm, resulting in a host of environmentally damaging consequences, according to some scientists. There exists a range of options available f...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method for sequestering and storing carbon dioxide underground in natural gas hydrate deposits. This can help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and also produce methane gas, which can be used to pay for the transportation and injection costs of carbon dioxide. The method involves displacing methane hydrates with carbon dioxide hydrates, which are less stable than methane hydrates, to produce methane gas. This can be applied to any underwater or underground hydrate deposits where the hydrates are less stable than CO2 hydrates.

Problems solved by technology

These increased emissions of greenhouse gases are believed responsible for a one degree Fahrenheit increase in the global average temperature over the past several years and if nothing is done to reduce them, the Earth will continue to warm, resulting in a host of environmentally damaging consequences, according to some scientists.

It is believed, however, that such a method has not yet been successfully demonstrated.

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