Impact of Degassing Parameters on the Efficiency of Gas Hydrate Extraction

Gas hydrates, crystalline water-methane structures, offer vast energy potential but require optimized degassing for methane extraction. This theoretical study evaluates key parameters – pressure, temperature, chemical inhibitors, and geological conditions – using literature data. Depressurization (10→2 MPa) boosts dissociation rates by 50% but risks sediment instability. Thermal stimulation (2°C→10°C) enhances yields, with marine sediments (60–80% efficiency) outperforming permafrost (40–60%). Chemical inhibitors (e.g., methanol, 10–20% concentration) improve yields but face environmental and cost hurdles; saline solutions offer safer alternatives (30–50% yields). High porosity (30–40%) and permeability (10⁻¹² m²) increase recovery by 25%, while clay-rich formations reduce efficiency by 15%. Kinetic and equilibrium models provide insights but lack real-world validation. The study highlights the need for experimental tests to refine models and assess environmental impacts. Tailored strategies balancing dissociation speed with geomechanical stability and ecological safeguards could enable sustainable extraction. This work advances foundational knowledge for industrial-scale methane recovery from hydrates, emphasizing the potential of integrated approaches to unlock this unconventional resource.