GAS HYDRATES FOR DEEP OCEAN STORAGE OF CO_2 - NOVEL TECHNOLOGY FOR UTILISING HYDRATES FOR TRANSPORT OF CO_2

摘要

A study has been performed, evaluating how hydrates can be utilised as the basis for deep ocean CO_2 disposal processes: By converting CO_2 gas to solid hydrates, a cost-efficient way of transporting CO_2 may be achieved. The paper describes the proposed production and transportation method and gives a preliminary estimate of the CO_2 abatement cost. The CO_2 hydrates will sink to the bottom of the deep ocean by virtue of the relatively high density of the hydrate. The solid lumps of hydrates are expected to form a temporary accumulation of hydrate before decomposing as a result of which the CO_2 content will dissolve in the surrounding seawater. The paper presents a rough analysis of the sinking of the hydrates and the size and lifetime of the temporary accumulation, and estimates roughly what the local effect on CO_2 concentration and pH might be.