Solid natural gas technology: natural gas production and storage innovation
Antony Loane A *A
Antony Loane graduated from Curtin University in 1991 with a BEng(Chem), is a member of the Institute of Chemical Engineers and has over 30 years of professional experience in the Energy Industry with core expertise in Engineering, Projects, Technology and Business across the energy resources industry. Antony brings a diverse and deep global experience from Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe to the region. He has a demonstrated track record in energy innovation having co-founded an energy exploration company in Central Europe targeting sustainable coal development (underground coal gasification), as well as leading research into low cost hydrogen production technology. As the DORIS Group’s Business Development Manager for Asia–Pacific he is committed to bringing cutting edge energy transition experience and technology from Europe to the region. |
Abstract
Originally intended for strategic, zero-emissions natural gas storage to complement liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage facilities, solid natural gas (SNG) technology is being developed at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and has the potential to dramatically reduce emissions from LNG supply chains, as well as unlock stranded reserves of contaminated natural gas. SNG is a ‘super-charged’ gas hydrate that can be produced from either pure natural gas or contaminated gas wellstream fluids and seawater. While SNG has an energy density part way between compressed natural gas and LNG it can be produced and stored for a fraction of the energy. NUS has achieved several significant milestones since the research project started in 2016 including the proof of concept, patents in place, development of a rapid production process at moderate pressure and temperature conditions, and demonstration of safe and long term, zero emissions storage. The next stage of technology development targets design and construction of a continuous production and storage process pilot plant. In parallel, the DORIS Group will be undertaking commercial feasibility studies for industrial application of SNG technology quantifying the emissions reduction benefits for gas storage projects, and improved project economics for stranded gas development.
Keywords: clathrate, emissions, hydrate, LNG, natural gas, oil and gas, storage.
Antony Loane graduated from Curtin University in 1991 with a BEng(Chem), is a member of the Institute of Chemical Engineers and has over 30 years of professional experience in the Energy Industry with core expertise in Engineering, Projects, Technology and Business across the energy resources industry. Antony brings a diverse and deep global experience from Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe to the region. He has a demonstrated track record in energy innovation having co-founded an energy exploration company in Central Europe targeting sustainable coal development (underground coal gasification), as well as leading research into low cost hydrogen production technology. As the DORIS Group’s Business Development Manager for Asia–Pacific he is committed to bringing cutting edge energy transition experience and technology from Europe to the region. |
