Articles tagged with Methane
An international team of researchers has combined experiments with quantum theory to explore methane dissociation reactions in minute detail. They found that dissociation reactions are at least two orders of magnitude more efficient on steps than on terraces, providing new insights for optimizing catalysts.
Researchers found high methane concentrations in groundwater near a 1965 gas well blowout site in the Netherlands, suggesting ongoing methane leakage from the reservoir. Methane oxidation reduced isotope concentrations with increasing distance from the blowout site.
Researchers at Osaka University have created a radical reaction that converts methane into methanol and formic acid using a clean, low-temperature process. The process achieves this goal without the need for high temperatures or pressures, converting over 99% of methane into the target products.
Researchers create simulated space environments where small organic molecules form under radiation, potentially offering an alternative explanation for the origin of life. The study used advanced techniques to analyze icy films containing methane and oxygen, producing a variety of complex organic molecules.
Researchers at Rice University have created an asphalt-based sorbent that can capture more than twice its weight in carbon dioxide from natural gas, outperforming traditional methods. The new material features the selectivity of amines but requires no thermal source and has negligible degradation over multiple testing cycles.
Researchers developed a model that shows how planetary chemistry could create a greenhouse effect on an exoplanet, keeping it warm despite a cold sun. The model, based on Earth's possible geological and biological chemistry three billion years ago, suggests that methane may have played a key role in maintaining the planet's temperature.
Researchers have discovered a long-sought source of ocean methane, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to global warming. The enzyme methylphosphonate synthase (MPnS) is found in abundant marine microbes and may produce the compound that is converted to methane.
Researchers measured gas levels in comet 45P, revealing it doesn't match any studied before, with carbon monoxide and methane being detected. The team found a larger-than-average share of frozen methanol, raising questions about its origin.
Researchers at DGIST developed a highly efficient titanium dioxide-based photocatalyst that can convert carbon dioxide into methane. The newly created material shows the highest conversion rate of 12.49% and has been proven to increase methane conversion efficiency up to 29 times using platinum nanoparticles.
A new study challenges previous estimates of US livestock methane emissions, suggesting a significant discrepancy between top-down and bottom-up approaches. The researchers used a spatially explicit approach to estimate enteric methane emissions for cattle and manure methane emissions for swine and poultry.
Researchers at Tufts University have discovered a new method for directly converting methane into methanol using a heterogeneous catalyst and low-cost molecular oxygen. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective production of chemicals, fuels, and high-grade hydrogen.
A new approach has been developed to measure methane emissions from livestock, highlighting the need for more accurate estimates. The study reveals that current data may be outdated and do not fully consider factors such as feed intake and manure storage, leading to large uncertainties in methane emission figures.
Scientists have discovered a cryptic ecosystem in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, where methane and bacteria form the basis of a food web dominated by crustaceans. The study provides a model for coastal groundwater ecology and establishes a baseline for evaluating the impact of stressors on these ecosystems.
A research team led by David Brankovits discovered that cave-adapted organisms can thrive on methane gas and bacteria near it, raising the possibility of similar life forms existing worldwide. The study found a complex food web involving tiny organisms and large shrimp.
A recent study reveals a strong link between temperature and methane bubble emissions on a global scale. The research found that warming temperatures lead to increased production of these gas bubbles in aquatic environments, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
A team of UCSB researchers has developed a single-step method to convert methane into hydrogen while preventing the formation of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. The process uses molten metals and results in a solid form of carbon that can be readily transported and stored indefinitely.
Researchers at Ohio State University found a new methane-producing microbe that survives in oxygen-rich environments, contrary to previous assumptions. The discovery suggests the amount of methane released into the atmosphere may be more than initially thought.
Researchers have isolated novel microorganisms from extreme environments with unique methane consumption capabilities. The study aims to develop these microbes for industrial applications such as biodegradable plastics and electricity production.
Scientists from IBM Research developed a tiny, low-cost methane spectrometer that can detect concentrations as low as 100 parts-per-million. The device has the potential to be used in an inexpensive sensor network to autonomously monitor for natural gas leaks and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A recent study by scientists at the University of Exeter found that mixing diverse microorganisms from different sources can increase productivity and stability in microbial communities. This phenomenon was observed when methane-producing communities were combined, leading to a higher biogas yield.
Researchers at KU Leuven have created a new membrane that significantly enhances the separation of methane and CO2 in natural gas and biogas. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient production of renewable fuels and chemicals.
Researchers at MIT have found a low-temperature electrochemical process to convert methane into valuable derivatives, potentially leading to lower-cost methane conversion and reduced flaring. This technology could provide an alternative to high-temperature industrial processes and pave the way for widespread adoption.
A new study by Cardiff University and Stockholm University found that ocean clams and worms produce large amounts of methane and nitrous oxides, contributing to global warming. The findings suggest that farming shellfish could be an effective solution to mitigate environmental pressures.
A recent study by the University of Bristol found that India's methane emissions have shown little growth over the last few years, with accurate reporting by the country's authorities. The research used a combination of observations from the surface, an aircraft, and a satellite to quantify India's methane emissions.
Researchers from the University of Liverpool have made a significant breakthrough in converting carbon dioxide and methane into liquid fuels and chemicals. The new process uses non-thermal plasma synthesis to achieve high selectivity at room temperature, producing valuable chemical feedstocks.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have discovered a unique reaction pathway that utilizes molten sodium-based catalysts to efficiently convert natural gas into industrial products. The catalyst, which forms hydroxyl radicals from oxygen and water, has great potential for various catalytic reactions.
Research finds high levels of helium in UK coal seams, enabling detection of gas leaks and contamination. The discovery may also enable large volumes of helium gas to be recovered for sale.
Researchers have identified a genetic link between host animals, their microbial community, and methane production in a study that won the PLOS Genetics Research Prize. The study found that certain microbial profiles can be used to recognize cattle that use feed more efficiently while emitting less methane.
A team of researchers has developed a simplified approach to directly converting methane to methanol, reducing the need for high heat and pressure. The discovery utilizes colloidal gold-palladium nanoparticles in aqueous solution under mild conditions, enabling the selective oxidation of methane to methanol.
A research team has identified a methanotroph strain that can consume both methane and hydrogen gases, improving its growth and survival in various conditions. This finding has significant implications for greenhouse gas mitigation, as industrial companies can use these bacteria to convert harmful gases into useful products.
New study reveals that methane leaks around North Sea boreholes could be a major source of greenhouse gases, with up to 17,000 tonnes released per year. Scientists estimate that about one third of the over 11,000 wells drilled in the North Sea are leaking methane.
A new study suggests that hydrophobic molecules like oil can be forced to dissolve in water when subjected to high pressure. Researchers applied immense pressure to methane and water, gaining insights into their interaction. This finding has implications for replacing hazardous industrial solvents and modeling planetary bodies.
Researchers found natural geologic methane emissions were three to four times lower than previously estimated numbers, suggesting anthropogenic fossil methane emissions are higher. The study suggests reducing methane emissions from fossil fuels may be an even more important factor in reducing global warming.
A new study suggests that the last ice age transition to a warmer climate did not include massive methane flux from marine sediments or tundra. Instead, rising levels of atmospheric methane were likely from tropical wetlands, according to researchers at Oregon State University.
A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that methane hydrates in the Arctic Ocean are not a significant contributor to global warming. The researchers found that hydrates are already seeping methane for thousands of years, and this process is not affected by short-term temperature warming.
NYU Tandon researchers develop novel microfluidic technology to study methane hydrate formation, measuring the impact of heat transfer and mass transfer on crystal propagation rates. The breakthrough could lead to new technologies for gas separations and efficient natural gas storage.
A new study reveals that subsea permafrost in the East Siberian Arctic Shelf (ESAS) degrades at a rate of 18 cm/year, exceeding previous estimates. This suggests that massive methane emissions into the atmosphere may occur due to the destruction of hydrates, contradicting IPCC climate model predictions.
A Caltech team has identified a new additive that selectively converts CO2 into fuels containing multiple carbon atoms, including ethylene, ethanol, and propanol. The reaction resulted in an 80% conversion rate, with only 20% going into hydrogen and methane.
Researchers at Washington State University have developed a small reactor that can inexpensively break down methane into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, producing syngas for use in energy production. This innovation could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and wasted energy from oil drilling operations.
A new study reveals that methane-eating microbes in Antarctica's subglacial Whillans Lake can consume nearly all released methane, potentially reducing its impact on the atmosphere. This process could have significant climatic implications and may play a critical role in mitigating the effects of melting Antarctic ice sheets.
A study in the Mackenzie Delta found that thawing permafrost releases high amounts of geological methane, contributing significantly to climate change. The research team discovered strong emissions solely where permafrost is discontinuous, primarily from deeper geologic sources.
A new study suggests that monitoring wetland extent can better predict the release of methane from thawing permafrost. Researchers found that decomposition of new organic matter is the main source of methane released, not previously frozen carbon. This knowledge can help improve predictions and understanding of climate change impacts.
Researchers have discovered frozen methane domes on the Arctic Ocean floor that could indicate an increased risk of new methane blow-outs. The domes are stable due to high pressure but can collapse with a small change in water temperature, posing a threat to the environment.
Researchers discovered massive craters in the Arctic sea floor that were formed 12,000 years ago, with methane still leaking profusely. The study found over 600 gas flares releasing methane into the water column, with similar processes ongoing under ice sheets today.
Researchers at Concordia University have developed a low-temperature process using psychrophilic bacteria to break down food waste, producing methane comparable to traditional anaerobic digestion processes. The study shows promise for reducing the global impact of food waste on climate change and energy demands.
A new titania photocatalyst has been developed to convert carbon dioxide into methane three times more efficiently than existing catalysts. The photocatalyst's controlled band gap improves light absorption and charge separation, increasing the conversion rate of CO2 into methane.
A team of UCLA chemists has developed a new technique for breaking carbon-hydrogen bonds and making carbon-carbon bonds, enabling the creation of new molecules. This method uses silicon and boron as abundant and inexpensive catalysts, potentially leading to more efficient production of fuels and pharmaceuticals.
Researchers have created a bacteria-powered fuel cell that can convert methane into small amounts of electricity near the wellheads, reducing long-distance transport and leakage. The process uses a consortium of bacteria that produces electricity by capturing methane and producing acetate, electrons, and an energy enzyme.
The CARAFE airborne campaign will gather data on greenhouse gas levels and vertical wind speeds over a range of vegetation types in the Mid-Atlantic region. This will help improve computer models that predict Earth's carbon sinks and inform greenhouse gas policy decisions.
New EPA regulations may reduce methane emissions by 27%, but achieve only 20-50% of expected reductions. Researchers recommend a regional approach to addressing methane leaks and adopting more effective detection technologies.
Researchers discovered ancient methane-producing microbes thrived in rust-rich environments, escaping to the atmosphere and trapping heat. This finding challenges previous theories on greenhouse gas production during the early Earth's formation.
A new study suggests that hydroxyl radicals, a key component of the atmosphere, are behind unexplained recent increases in methane levels. Fluctuations in hydroxyl concentrations correlate strongly with fluctuations in methane, and changes in hydroxyl availability govern the amount of methane in the atmosphere.
A new paper investigates an alternative possibility: a rise and fall in the concentration of the hydroxyl radical, which destroys methane in the atmosphere. The team's findings suggest that emissions may have risen more gradually over the last couple of decades.
A new coating system developed at MIT can effectively prevent the buildup of hydrates in oil and gas pipelines, which can slow or block flow. The system creates a barrier film between water and the pipe wall, keeping hydrates away.
A field campaign on Ellef Ringnes Island revealed over 130 methane seep mounds in Cretaceous age sediments, indicating a significant release of methane during climate warming. The discovery supports concerns of potential destabilization of modern methane hydrates and has important implications for the Arctic Ocean's warming.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a sensor that detects specific wavelengths of electromagnetic energy using gold-plated crystals. The technology outperforms existing detectors in size, weight, power, speed and cost, making it ideal for detecting methane or natural gas leaks, monitoring crop health and recycling plastics.
A new study by University of Guelph researchers has found that methane gas leaking from energy wells can travel extensively through groundwater, posing an explosion risk and degrading water quality. The findings also suggest that methane is 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat when in the atmosphere.
Researchers developed microbes to aid methane recovery, while also improving chemistry students' test scores through personalized feedback. Urban streams were found to exhibit unique nutrient patterns driven by wastewater treatment plants.
Researchers from the University of Delaware found that tree trunks in upland forests emit methane, while soils and coarse woody debris act as methane sinks. The study used state-of-the-art technology to measure fluxes of methane and carbon dioxide, revealing a previously unaccounted source of this potent greenhouse gas.
A study by Royal Botanic Gardens Kew suggests that plants growing in warmer conditions are tougher and have lower nutritional value to grazing livestock, potentially inhibiting milk and meat yields and raising the amount of methane released. This vicious cycle threatens to further exacerbate climate change.