Toward production from gas hydrates: Current status, assessment of resources, and simulation-based evaluation of technology and potential
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Abstract
Gas hydrates are a vast energy resource with global distribution in the permafrost and in the oceans. Even if conservative estimates are considered and only a small fraction is recoverable, the sheer size of the resource is so large that it demands evaluation as a potential energy source. In this review paper, we discuss the distribution of natural gas hydrate accumulations, the status of the primary international R&D programs, and the remaining science and technological challenges facing commercialization of production. After a brief examination of gas hydrate accumulations that are well characterized and appear to be models for future development and gas production, we analyze the role of numerical simulation in the assessment of the hydrate production potential, identify the data needs for reliable predictions, evaluate the status of knowledge with regard to these needs, discuss knowledge gaps and their impact, and reach the conclusion that the numerical simulation capabilities are quite advanced and that the related gaps are either not significant or are being addressed. We review the current body of literature relevant to potential productivity from different types of gas hydrate deposits, and determine that there are consistent indications of a large production potential at high rates over long periods from a wide variety of hydrate deposits. Finally, we identify (a) features, conditions, geology and techniques that are desirable in potential production targets, (b) methods to maximize production, and (c) some of the conditions and characteristics that render certain gas hydrate deposits undesirable for production. Copyright 2008, Society of Petroleum Engineers.
Suggested Citation
Moridis, G.J., Collett, T.S., Boswell, R., Kurihara, M., Reagan, M.T., Koh, C., Sloan, E.D., 2008, Toward production from gas hydrates: Current status, assessment of resources, and simulation-based evaluation of technology and potential, in Society of Petroleum Engineers - Unconventional Reservoirs Conference 2008, Keystone, CO, 10 February 2008 through 12 February 2008, p. 30-71.
| Publication type | Conference Paper |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Conference Paper |
| Title | Toward production from gas hydrates: Current status, assessment of resources, and simulation-based evaluation of technology and potential |
| ISBN | 9781605600796 |
| Year Published | 2008 |
| Language | English |
| Larger Work Title | Society of Petroleum Engineers - Unconventional Reservoirs Conference 2008 |
| First page | 30 |
| Last page | 71 |
| Conference Title | Unconventional Reservoirs Conference 2008 |
| Conference Location | Keystone, CO |
| Conference Date | 10 February 2008 through 12 February 2008 |