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turn methane into liquid hydrocarbons. (Typically on the form
CnH2n+2 ).
In addition, coal deposits contain large amounts of
methane, referred to as coal bed methane. It is more difficult to
produce than normal natural gas (which is also largely methane),
but could add as much as 5-10% to natural gas proven reserves.
Methane Hydrates
Methane hydrates are the most recent form of
unconventional natural gas to be discovered and researched. These
formations are made up of a lattice of frozen water, which forms a
sort of cage around molecules of methane. Hydrates were first
discovered in permafrost regions of the Arctic and have been
reported from most deepwater continental shelves tested.
The methane can origiate from organic decay. At the sea
bottom, under high pressure and low temperatures, the hydrate is
heavier than water and will not escape, but stay at the bottom.
Research has revealed that they may be much more plentiful than
first expected. Estimates range anywhere from 180 to over 5800
trillion scm. The US Geological Survey estimates that methane
hydrates may contain more organic carbon than the world's coal,
oil, and conventional natural gas – combined. However, research
into methane hydrates is still in its infancy.
Biofuels
Biofuels are produced from specially grown products such
as oil seeds or sugars, and organic waste e.g. from the forest
industry.
Alcohol is distilled from fermented sugars and/or starch
(e.g. wood or grain) to produce Ethanol that can be burnt alone, or
mixed with ordinary petrol.
Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called
transesterification whereby the glycerin is separated from fat or
vegetable oil. The process leaves behind two products -- methyl
esters (the chemical name for biodiesel) and glycerin (a valuable
byproduct usually sold to be used in soaps and other products).
Biodiesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level
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