SPE Reservoir Evaluation & Engineering
Volume 12,
Number 5,
October 2009,
pp. 745-771
Summary
Gas hydrates (GHs) 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 GH accumulations, the status of
the primary international research and development (R&D) programs, and the
remaining science and technological challenges facing the commercialization of
production. After a brief examination of GH 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
either are not significant or are being addressed. We review the current body
of literature relevant to potential productivity from different types of GH
deposits and determine that there are consistent indications of a large
production potential at high rates across 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 GH deposits undesirable for production.
© 2009. Society of Petroleum Engineers
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History
- Original manuscript received:
15 January 2008
- Meeting paper published:
10 February 2008
- Revised manuscript received:
7 January 2009
- Manuscript approved:
20 February 2009
- Published online:
28 October 2009
- Version of record:
28 October 2009
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