Hydrates

Methane hydrates are ice-like crystalline minerals in which hydrocarbon and nonhydrocarbon gases are held within rigid cages of water molecules. They are called a clathrate: a crystal lattice of molecules ensnaring an unrelated compound. At high pressures and low temperatures, water forms a molecular trap for methane. The result is a white, flaky material that looks like ice.

Methane hydrates can become a hazard by blocking pipelines and interfering with oilfield operations. The OS&ER program is assessing the safety concerns associated with the development of hydrates and managing projects to predict and eliminate hydrates in deep water operations with joint industry partners.