Articles tagged with Natural Gas
A new study reveals that carefully designed power cycles can convert more of LNG's overlooked resource into useful electricity. Researchers found that a two-stage Rankine cycle with reheating produces the most effective design, generating up to 9.2 megawatts of net power.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a comprehensive database for underground natural gas storage sites across the US. The study provides insights into geological assessments, reservoir engineering, and operational data to inform future expansion and optimization of existing storage facilities.
Researchers estimate that up to 90% of data center carbon dioxide emissions could be stored in underground saline aquifers, mitigating the reversal of declining carbon dioxide emissions. Deploying carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies at scale requires partnerships between data center owners, utilities, and CCS providers.
Graphonos Materials, a startup from the University of Pittsburgh, has developed a novel technology to produce battery-quality graphite and hydrogen using molten metal catalysis. This process is more energy-efficient and sustainable than current methods, which require high temperatures and generate significant carbon emissions.
A collaborative team of researchers from Kyoto University analyzed the net-zero transition in Southeast Asia, finding that a flexible grid paradigm allows vertically integrated utilities to accept natural gas as flexible energy. The study also highlights the need for synchronized changes in energy systems and financial systems to achie...
Southwest Research Institute's Metering Research Facility has received ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, confirming compliance with international testing and calibration standards. The facility offers highly specialized calibration services to energy sector clients using its recirculating natural gas flow lab.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed an energy-efficient reactor that captures and recycles methane to produce clean hydrogen and high-performance carbon nanotubes. The process uses a multi-pass floating catalyst chemical vapour deposition reactor with process gas recycling, significantly reducing energy requirements.
Researchers developed three process designs that capture higher value hydrocarbons during LNG regasification using seawater, with one configuration delivering strong economic performance. The study also highlights environmental advantages by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and improving overall efficiency.
Researchers have developed an iron-based catalyst that tames the reactivity of methane, paving the way for natural gas to become a sustainable raw material for high-value chemicals. The method uses iron—a cheap, abundant, and far less toxic metal—and operates under mild temperature and pressure conditions.
Dr. Chris Thomas recognized for technical excellence and leadership in combustion technologies, including propulsion systems and battery safety. His research has led to significant contributions to the field of blast physics and lithium-ion battery safety.
A new Australian fossil fuel site, set to start production in 2026, will contribute significantly to global warming. The project's emissions are expected to cause approximately 0.00039 degrees Celsius of additional global warming, posing risks to human health and the environment.
A new study reveals that fossil fuel companies are failing to invest in renewables, with only 20% owning an operational project and renewable energy representing just 0.1% of their primary energy extraction.
A study by Penn State researchers found that using electricity for space heating can significantly reduce on-site household energy consumption. The team also identified other factors, such as the use of electric water heaters and construction methods, that contribute to energy savings.
Researchers found little evidence of disproportionate siting in Black counties, but a growing share of the Black population over time. Long-term demographic shifts after power plant openings led to higher Black population shares, with an average rise of 4% in 50-70 years.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University analyze historical U.S. carbon emissions trends, identifying factors that contributed to changes and offering lessons for developing countries. The study suggests that investing in efficient technologies and avoiding overreliance on coal can help avoid pitfalls encountered by the United States.
Researchers at SwRI create a custom test rig to study how blending hydrogen into liquid natural gas affects storage tank temperatures and steel material integrity. The goal is to determine if tanks can endure lower temperatures without compromising safety.
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano's LCCP have developed a process to transform CO₂ into methane using carefully engineered nickel nanoparticles. The study investigates how the size and shape of nickel nanoparticles influence the rate of carbon dioxide conversion into methane.
Using site characterization data from multiple disciplines, researchers can now accurately predict the occurrence of marine landslides. The correct sequence of site investigations and integration of data is crucial for maximizing information and confidence in landslide models.
Researchers found a new recipe to improve biogas production from alfalfa by adding fruit waste and an anaerobic microbe, boosting methane production by 33% and reducing costs. The added ingredients also increased the nutritional content of remaining plant matter.
Researchers developed a novel process for direct production of syngas via super-dry reforming of methane using solid oxide electrolysis cells. The system achieved high CH4 conversion and selectivity toward CO and H2, showcasing potential for CO2 utilization and renewable energy storage.
A novel copper-based zeolite imidazolate framework (Cu-ZIF-gis) has been developed to separate deuterium (D2) from hydrogen (H2) at 120 K (-153°C), exceeding the liquefaction point of natural gas. This material exhibits improved separation efficiency and lower energy consumption compared to traditional methods.
The regulations could roughly double emissions reductions from the power sector in 2040, falling 51% from 2022 levels if maintained, compared to 26% without the rules. The vast majority of reductions would come from accelerating coal-fired plant retirements.
A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that hitting Europe's 2030 renewable energy targets could reduce electricity price volatility by an average of 20% across 29 European countries. This would lead to significant reductions in price spikes, with the UK and Ireland expected to benefit the most.
The university aims to improve operational efficiency, manage emissions, and build an inventory of methane emissions through three research projects. The efforts will also support workforce development and improve air quality in local communities.
A study by the Complexity Science Hub shows that coordinated responses, including gas storage and alternative supply routes, can reduce potential economic impact. Austria's well-filled storage facilities and alternative supply routes have helped compensate for Gazprom's current gas supply freeze.
Researchers analyzed a thermophotovoltaic system paired with phase-change materials for energy storage and found slight reductions in costs. The study identified key factors affecting TPV system costs, highlighting the need for future research to improve adoption and efficiency.
Researchers developed a model to project Italy's energy storage needs for a renewable energy system, accounting for daily and seasonal fluctuations. The model suggests that increasing short-term energy storage capacity is critical for decarbonizing the power sector.
A recent study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology found that growing maize to produce biomethane on drained peat emits up to three times more carbon dioxide than using natural gas. The production of crops like maize for bioenergy has rapidly increased, leading to a significant expansion of cultivated areas on drained peatlands.
A survey of Pennsylvanians and policymakers reveals bipartisan support for solar energy and other renewables, but elected officials underestimate their constituents' preferences. The study highlights the need for clear communication between the public and local representatives to ensure informed decision-making about energy projects.
A new study found that US fire departments spent over $564 million in 2018 responding to gas leaks, with the median cost estimated at $2,600 per incident. The study analyzed data from 15 years of emergency response incidents and estimated the burden on fire departments.
A new study by SMU-led researchers found that ground surface conditions significantly impact the speed and distance of leaking natural gas, with saturated surfaces allowing gas to migrate farthest. The study also highlights the importance of considering soil surface structures when evaluating pipeline leak safety risks.
Research shows that oil and natural gas development in the Permian Basin contributes to high eight-hour ozone concentrations frequently exceeding EPA health standards during summer months. The study uses data from a 2019 field survey to confirm the impact of drilling, flaring, and other activities on ozone levels.
Researchers found benzene in 97% of North American natural gas samples, posing a health risk to households with small leaks. The study suggests improved transparency and stricter regulations can improve indoor air quality and public health.
A recent study examines European electricity prices' vulnerability to changes in natural gas prices and proposes new indicators to measure it. The research highlights the need for vigilant market surveillance during energy crises and suggests decoupling electricity markets from natural gas prices.
Research reveals that methane emissions from US oil and gas operations amount to 6 million tons per year, costing the nation $10 billion annually. The study also found that midstream infrastructure is responsible for half of total emissions, highlighting the need for efforts concentrated on relatively few operations.
Research using historical satellite images shows that methane emissions in Turkmenistan increased following the Soviet Union's collapse, contradicting previous theories. This finding suggests that economic decline led to reduced oversight and more deliberate off-gassing of methane from oil and gas wells.
A new study by Purdue University finds that cooking on a gas stove can emit more nanocluster aerosol into the air than vehicles running on gas or diesel. This tiny particle pollution could increase the risk of developing asthma and other respiratory illnesses, especially for children.
A new study by GIST researchers provides efficient hydrogen storage solutions using clathrate hydrates, overcoming limitations such as limited gas storage capacities and slow formation rates. The study offers crucial insights for developing clathrate hydrate-based technologies for carbon dioxide separation and hydrogen storage.
Seismologists analyzed signals from underwater gas pipeline rupture, finding long-lasting seismic and infrasound signals. The signals decay slowly over thousands of seconds, similar to those detected from an underwater volcano or a pipeline venting gas.
A new study found that fossil fuel companies rarely respond to online discussions about extreme weather, but instead engage with sustainability initiatives and corporate efforts. Climate misinformation can fuel denialism and delay action, emphasizing the need for understanding how it's designed and spread.
Researchers at the University of California - Berkeley have developed a simple and green way to convert flared natural gas into economically valuable liquids, mostly alcohols like methanol and ethanol. The process utilizes a porous metal-organic framework (MOF) that mimics the oxygenation reaction in plants and animals.
A new study finds that compressor stations emit pollutants like particulates and VOCs, impacting nearby community health. Continuous air quality monitoring, stricter standards, and community-specific assessments are recommended to protect vulnerable populations.
Researchers at Washington State University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the Fischer Tropsch process, a key step in converting coal, natural gas, and biomass into liquid fuels. The team found that the process exhibits self-sustained oscillations, which can be harnessed to enhance reaction rates and product yields.
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed an enzyme that can convert methane into methanol at room temperature in water. This technology has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of natural gas and could be used to convert other hydrocarbons, offering a low-energy and environmentally friendly solution.
A new study uses nonlinear partial differential equations to model the transportation of hydrogen-heterogeneous mixtures through pipeline systems, ensuring predictable operations. The research proposes injecting hydrogen gradually into existing natural gas pipelines to maximize their utility in reducing carbon-emitting fossil fuels.
Researchers confirm fracking triggers tremors, which can be used to track fluid movement and monitor fault activity. This finding has implications for sustainability and climate science, as carbon sequestration through fracking may reduce atmospheric emissions.
A literature review found that several commonly used natural gas odorants may induce a range of adverse health symptoms at very low concentrations. The review's findings suggest that these odorants could pose health risks at much lower exposure levels than previously suspected.
Researchers have developed a new catalyst that can remove up to 90% of unburned methane from natural-gas engine exhaust at low temperatures, addressing a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. The breakthrough could lead to lower exhaust emissions and mitigate global warming.
Researchers have developed a single-atom catalyst that efficiently removes methane from engine exhaust at low temperatures, even when the engine is starting. The catalyst uses every atom of precious metals and maintains reaction stability at higher temperatures.
A new study finds public backing for biofuel and hydrogen as alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the global shipping industry. The research suggests that nuclear power is also a viable option, while ammonia has the least public support due to its perceived risks.
Researchers at OU are developing a scalable, integrated sensing platform to detect and monitor methane emissions in the Anadarko Basin. The system aims to help companies identify and mitigate accidental leaks, achieving detection at the meter scale.
MethaneMapper is an artificial intelligence-powered hyperspectral imaging tool that can detect real-time methane emissions and trace them to their sources. With a performance accuracy of 91%, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we monitor oil and gas operations and curb climate change.
A new study by ETH Zurich researchers found that collaborating in solidarity can help European countries avert drastic and involuntary energy demand curtailment. The study suggests that voluntarily reducing energy demand to supply gas to other countries is far less painful than forcing a country to massively reduce its demand.
Researchers highlight the need for a coherent international framework for decommissioning offshore structures due to limited evidence on their environmental impact. The study emphasizes the critical need for consensus on future approaches as an estimated 1,800 offshore wind turbines will require decommissioning by 2030.
The project aims to collect core samples and temperature data down to 15,000 feet to test the potential of geothermal energy in the region. Data will also be gathered on underground carbon storage in the Appalachian basin, a scientific first in the state.
A study by Carnegie Mellon researchers found that about 10% of US pipeline compressor stations are electric, making them vulnerable to electric outages. Electric outages could force a loss greater than 2 gigawatts of downstream gas generators, causing significant reductions in available gas.
A new study suggests that using underground water for thermal energy storage (ATES) can reduce heating and cooling energy demand in the US by 40%, making urban energy infrastructure more resilient. ATES stores energy as temperature underground, leveraging natural geological features to heat or cool buildings during extreme weather events.
A University of Chicago study found that older adults living near fracking sites in Pennsylvania had higher rates of cardiovascular disease hospitalizations compared to those in nearby New York state. The study linked exposure to air and water pollution from fracking activity to increased health outcomes.
A new report by researchers from IEER and PSE Healthy Energy estimates that 400,000 Maryland households face high energy bills exceeding six percent of their income. The study suggests that investing in efficiency and clean energy for low-income households can save billions compared to bill assistance alone.
A new study reveals that rising energy prices triggered by the Russia-Ukraine conflict could push up to 141 million more people around the globe into extreme poverty. Households' energy costs are likely to rise by 62.6% - 112.9%, contributing to a 2.7% - 4.8% hike in household expenditure and cost-of-living pressures.