An x-ray computed tomography gas hydrate in situ formation and seepage simulation device

Abstract

Nano-CT (computed tomography) technology enables high-resolution imaging and scanning of hydrate dissociation processes in porous media at submicron-scale resolution. However, due to the inability of nano-CT to withstand large torque, the traditional semiconductor cooling method cannot be used for in situ hydrate formation, resulting in the hindering of the effective operation of seepage simulators. Therefore, in this paper, a nano-CT-based in situ hydrate formation and seepage simulator are specially designed, and the torque and entanglement problems existing in traditional experimental devices can be solved by using a pipeline placed above the device and a built-in seepage line. The device is able to offer an improved depiction of hydrates in porous media and the effect of the seepage process on the three-dimensional distribution of hydrates. The future applications of this device are expected to provide novel insights into the effects of gas–water transport and hydrate storage patterns during gas hydrate exploitation.