Chamber for the production of methane hydrates in laboratory conditions

Abstract

The present application relates to a chamber for the production of methane hydrates under laboratory conditions, which relates to the field of heat-pressure treatment of methane into a solid called methane hydrate. The chamber (17) consists of several components, namely control flasks (1), a cylindrical high-pressure connector with side elbows (2), a T-adapter (3) with a pressure gauge (18), a long connecting pipe (4), a short connecting pipe (5) with a pressure gauge (18), a check valve (6) and a pressure relief valve (7). The main auxiliary equipment of the chamber (17) for achieving the required pressure and temperature values necessary for the formation of methane hydrate consists of a pneumatic gas pressure multiplier (23) and a converted internal tank (28) of a water apparatus (27). With its design, the chamber (17) solves the technical problem of visual monitoring of the methane hydrate formation process, and ensures safe handling and support of the pressure required for the formation of such hydrates, while the pneumatic gas pressure multiplier (23) solves the technical problem of repeatability of the methane hydrate formation process. The chamber (17) made in a certified workshop together with the auxiliary equipment represents a feasible and not too demanding investment, and therefore more affordable apparatus for generating methane hydrates under controlled conditions.