Articles tagged with Natural Gas
The report identifies substantial opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving scarce water resources by generating renewable energy. It highlights the potential for water sector innovation to increase renewable energy capacity, particularly in states like California.
A new study by Stanford University researchers concludes that the demand for oil will reach its peak and decline due to economic growth limitations and increasing use of alternative fuels. Historically, there is a connection between economic growth and oil consumption breaking down, leading to more efficient alternatives.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new oxygen carrier that enables chemical looping combustion of natural gas up to 70 times faster. This process captures carbon dioxide while producing water vapor and energy.
A small pilot study found that 22% of participants in a hydrofracking-heavy area in Bradford County, PA, believe that natural gas operations may be causing their health problems. The most common symptoms reported were sinus problems, sleeping difficulties, and gastrointestinal issues.
A recent study by the Colorado School of Public Health found that health impact assessments can identify potential health risks associated with natural gas development. The assessment identified health effects such as headaches and respiratory issues in a western Colorado town, highlighting the importance of considering public health i...
A nationwide field study will quantify methane emissions throughout US natural gas distribution systems to estimate national emissions rates. The study aims to improve energy policies and management practices for a cleaner environment.
A new process developed by MIT engineers can produce clean water at relatively low cost, making it a crucial step towards U.S. energy independence and addressing the issue of produced water from natural gas wells. The technology has been patented and is expected to be commercially available within two years.
Spending on utility-funded energy efficiency programs will double by 2025, reaching $9.5 billion, as states in the Midwest and South expand their programs, driven by policies requiring cost-effective energy savings and energy efficiency resource standards.
The University of Washington has been awarded a $4 million grant to develop bacteria that can turn methane in natural gas into diesel fuel. The team aims to capture wasted natural gas and use bacteria to convert it into energy-rich molecules, which will then be converted into diesel.
A CU-Boulder-led team will examine social, ecological, and economic aspects of natural gas development. The project aims to provide a framework for society to evaluate the trade-offs associated with the benefits and costs of natural gas development.
The NSF has awarded $12 million to two sustainability research networks, one focusing on natural gas development effects and the other on sustainable climate risk management strategies. The networks aim to maximize benefits while minimizing negative effects on human communities and ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), have found that commercial natural gas capture accounts for up to 70% of the dramatic leveling off in atmospheric methane levels since the late-20th century. The study suggests that changes in fossil fuel use were a major factor in this trend.
The university will conduct two projects focusing on alternative energy sources and cleaner technologies to reduce reliance on oil. Researchers aim to develop a novel method for converting natural gas to syngas.
A new study reveals that even drought-resistant tree species in the Bornean rainforest will face increased mortality due to El Nino events. Replacing coal with natural gas could reduce global warming by 40% under certain scenarios, according to a separate analysis.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that intense gas development is driving away wildlife from their traditional wintering grounds. In Wyoming's Jonah and PAPA gas fields, researchers discovered an 82% decline of high-quality habitat for pronghorn, a sharp increase in infrastructure, and behavioral shifts among the animals.
A new iron-based metal-organic framework (MOF) can separate closely related components of natural gas, improving the distillation process. The material is capable of selectively adsorbing light hydrocarbons, reducing energy-intensive cooling steps and potentially eliminating them.
Scientists have developed a new technology to purify natural gas by removing carbon dioxide, which increases the energy density and efficiency of storage and transportation. The 'super natural gas' burns hotter and occupies less space than traditional fuel.
A new study found that air emissions from hydraulic fracturing (fracking) near natural gas drilling sites can cause non-cancer health impacts, such as eye irritation, headaches, and respiratory problems. The study also calculated higher cancer risks for residents living closer to wells.
In 2009, US greenhouse gas emissions from power generation decreased by 8.76 percent, primarily driven by the lower price of natural gas compared to coal. A new econometric model developed at Harvard University suggests that a carbon tax could further reduce emissions with negligible impact on electricity prices.
Scientists at Stanford University subject rocks to hellish conditions to combat global warming by studying the storage of carbon dioxide in geologic formations. They have obtained critical data about the large-scale underground storage of carbon dioxide, including reduced leakage risk and increased permeability.
A new project will study the behavior of carbon deep within the Earth, led by a UC Davis chemistry professor with a $1.5 million grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a computational method to quickly identify metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with high potential for natural gas storage. The new algorithm rapidly generates and tests hypothetical MOFs, leading to the discovery of over 300 promising structures.
The researchers have received two grants to further develop the steam hydrogasification process that turns waste from food, yards, and other sources into transportation fuels or natural gas. The process has been found to be 12% more efficient and 18% less expensive than other mainstream gasification technologies.
A recent study suggests that relying on natural gas instead of coal would fail to significantly slow down climate change. The research found that a shift in energy sources could lead to a slight increase in worldwide warming over the next 40 years, with temperatures eventually dropping by only a few tenths of a degree.
Researchers led by WHOI determined the blown-out Macondo well spewed nearly 5 million barrels of oil at a rate of about 57,000 barrels per day between April 20 and July 15, 2010. The study also found that the well released 100 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed an integrated method for surveying the earth for signs of valuable resources, including natural gas and oil. The technique combines multiple geophysical tools and plate tectonics reconstructions to identify specific areas with high potential for discovery.
Researchers have discovered that compaction bands in sandstone are more permeable than previously believed, which could significantly improve the development of hydraulic fracturing and CO2 sequestration technologies. This finding was made possible by advanced imaging techniques and multiscale computational models.
Researchers found that closely related species respond similarly to noise by tweaking their songs in different ways, with plumbeous vireos raising the pitch of their lowest note and grey vireos adjusting the highest part of their song. The study provides insight into how birds cope with increasing noise levels in their environments.
A new method called Antisolvent Swing Regeneration reduces the amount of heat needed during processing, potentially saving at least 10% of energy. This process uses a recyclable binding organic liquid to remove hydrogen sulfide from natural gas.
Studies have shown that hybrid cars achieve up to twice the efficiency in city driving, resulting in significant fuel consumption and CO2 emission reductions. Natural gas fueled vehicles also offer a comparable alternative with additional economy benefits.
Researchers at Purdue University have created a new method to process biomass into biofuels, reducing transportation costs and increasing efficiency. The fast-hydropyrolysis-hydrodeoxygenation process uses hydrogen derived from natural gas or solar power, producing liquid fuel with high energy density.
Researchers propose using special bacteria to capture and convert CO2 into valuable natural gas, potentially lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This method has the potential to increase energy production while minimizing environmental harm.
A study by researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and Save America's Forests found that the Peruvian Amazon is at risk of a second hydrocarbon boom, with over 70% of the region leased to oil and gas companies. The authors highlight the devastating environmental and social impacts of previous hydrocarbon booms in the area.
The Rand Corporation study recommends that Israel prioritize conservation measures and diversify its fuel mix to reduce security risks. The nation should invest in combined-cycle natural-gas power plants, maintain a wide range of fuels, and regulate wholesale and retail prices to defray supply and cost risks.
A new University of Maryland study reveals that upgrading to energy-efficient natural gas furnaces and water heaters can save homeowners hundreds of dollars on average annual heating bills. The research also predicts the creation of over 80,000 jobs and a nine percent reduction in residential carbon emissions if state incentives encour...
Researchers propose a novel configuration of existing components to create a power plant that runs on natural gas without emitting greenhouse gases. The system has the advantage of producing clean water as a side benefit and could be retrofitted with carbon capture technologies.
The UK's first dual-fuel diesel-biomethane powered bus will significantly reduce pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions. The innovative technology, developed in collaboration with the University of East Anglia and leading bus operators, aims to be rolled out across the country and further afield.
Researchers report increasing promise for natural gas hydrates, frozen form of natural gas, as abundant source of clean, sustainable energy. Gas hydrates could supplement traditional energy sources linked to global warming, providing bridge to cleaner fuel sources like hydrogen and solar energy.
Italian researchers measured particulate matter from natural gas domestic burners and found high concentrations in stove tops, emitting larger amounts of ultrafine particles. The study provides important insights into the environmental health consequences associated with common home appliances.
Researchers detected large gas reservoirs in mid-crust rocks using seismic method, contradicting conventional wisdom about gas-anomaly locations. Gas-filled tiny fissures in rocks cause significant decrease in seismic wave velocity.
The Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering aims to cover the fields of natural gas exploration, production, processing and transmission. The journal will provide a niche in the economy, technology and integration of disparate disciplines.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to convert cellulose and other biodegradable organic materials into hydrogen using microbial fuel cells. This process produces 288% more energy in hydrogen than the electrical energy added to it, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods.
A new modified plastic material, known as thermally rearranged (TR) plastic, has been developed to separate carbon dioxide from natural gas more effectively. The TR plastic works four times better than conventional membranes at separating out carbon dioxide through pores.
The POX method produces high-temperature and pressure synthesis gas, enabling ten times more power generation and lower exergy losses compared to conventional methods. This process can drive a gas turbine for power generation and is more compact than existing steam turbine systems.
Carnegie Mellon researchers find that liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports could have 35% higher lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than coal. The study urges caution against investing in LNG infrastructure, highlighting the need for analysis of indirect implications and conservation measures.
The Conservation through Photography Alliance, a partnership between Conservation International and BG Group, aims to build awareness of the importance of natural conservation through photography. The alliance has already enabled CI to conduct photographic training workshops and expeditions to document threatened species and habitats.
Experts warn of energy insecurity's impact on US national security, driven by heavy oil and gas imports from hostile regions. The US needs to diversify its energy resources and invest in research and development to improve energy efficiency and reduce dependence on foreign sources.
The University of Georgia has received a $1.9 million grant to educate consumers about natural gas usage and billing practices. Ten UGA Extension agents will provide face-to-face guidance on safety practices, gas maintenance, and preventing unnecessary disconnections.
Researchers developed a centrifugal gas separator to clean highly contaminated natural gas streams, reducing energy loss and increasing profitability. The technique can separate CO2 and H2S from natural gas with minimal extra costs or waste of energy.
A mathematical model developed by MIT engineers can help optimize natural gas production in Malaysia. The model takes into account the complex interactions between pipelines, facilities, and contracts to ensure a reliable supply of this valuable fuel.
Researchers at Iowa State University are working with Frontline BioEnergy to develop a renewable alternative to natural gas in ethanol production. The new technology uses partial combustion of biomass to produce producer gas, which can replace natural gas in plant heaters and be upgraded into high-value fuels.
A five-year study by WCS and partners investigates how natural gas development affects pronghorn antelope in Wyoming's Upper Green River Valley Basin. Preliminary findings show that pronghorn can adapt to human presence but tend to avoid fragmented areas, and proximity to development has no effect on their health.
Researchers at PNNL developed thiol-SAMMS to remove mercury and other contaminants from produced waters. The technology, recently awarded for successful commercial use, has been licensed for production by Steward Advanced Materials.
Engineers have developed a simpler and safer material that can separate hydrogen from impurities more efficiently than existing methods. The new material, similar to membranes in biomedical devices, has applications for isolating hydrogen and natural gas.
The Purdue team used a unique method to study the oxidation of methane on a palladium catalyst, revealing that the rate is always the same regardless of the surface exposed. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient catalytic combustion technology, reducing pollution and improving energy efficiency.
The Explorer robot, developed by Carnegie Mellon University, successfully inspected hundreds of feet of live gas mains in Yonkers, NY. The robot's wireless capabilities and advanced cameras enable near-real-time images of the pipe's interior, reducing costs per foot of pipe inspected.
An anthropologist suggests a connection between decreasing energy use and declining fertility rates. The availability of energy affects economic activity, leading to a depressed economy which in turn causes a decline in fertility rate. This prediction is based on the link between petroleum consumption and economic conditions.
A study by ecologist Jeff Dukes calculates that 98 tons of plants per gallon are needed to produce modern fossil fuels. The research found that the amount of carbon in ancient plant matter required to form coal, oil, and gas is equivalent to all the plant growth on Earth over 13,300 years.
A UCI study found unexpectedly high hydrocarbon levels in central and southwest US regions, including Oklahoma City, with pollution levels exceeding those in high-smog cities. The research suggests total hydrocarbon emissions are higher than previously estimated, contributing to the American air pollution problem.
Brookhaven chemist Mow Lin's team has developed bacteria that can use coal as a nutrient and adsorb or degrade contaminants, improving methane recovery. Laboratory tests have shown these microbes to absorb contaminant metals, degrade dissolved organics, and break down coal to release trapped methane.