[20000214]RS20050_甲烷水合物：能源前景还是自然灾害？.pdf

Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS20050Updated February 14, 2000Methane Hydrates: Energy Prospect or Natural Hazard?James E. Mielke Specialist in Marine and Earth SciencesResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryMethane hydrate is a methane-bearing, ice-like material that occurs in marinesediments and in permafrost regions. The amount of methane contained in hydratedeposits is enormous, although it is likely that much of the hydrate occurs in lowconcentrations and would have no commercial potential. Hydrate deposits are estimatedto contain a much greater amount of natural gas than conventional accumulations,however, there is today no practical and environmentally safe way to produce the gas.Destabilization of the hydrates with uncontrolled release of large volumes of methane isa significant hazard. Legislation was introduced into the 105th Congress, which wouldhave authorized an interagency research and development program to develop methanehydrate resources. The bill passed the Senate and hearings were held in the House beforeCongress adjourned. The measure was reintroduced in the 106th Cong