Natural gas which is predominantly methane (CH4) is recognized as clean burning and an important bridge fuel to a future where renewable energy sources are more common. Methane hydrate-molecules of natural gas trapped in an ice-like cage of water molecules represents a potentially vast methane resource for both the United States and the world. Recent discoveries of methane hydrate in arctic and deep water marine environments have highlighted the need for a better understanding of this substance as a natural storehouse of carbon and a potential energy resource.
This course aims to provide a simple but comprehensive explanation of what methane hydrate is, where it is found, it’s potential as a fuel source, and the current state of methane hydrate research activities. Methane hydrate science has advanced steadily over the past decade, and commercial-scale production of natural gas from methane hydrate deposits is growing more viable at each step.
US Department of Energy
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