Strategy for effective marine transportation of natural gas hydrate with low energy consumption type container carrier

Abstract

As natural gas hydrate (henceforth NGH) becomes popular as an upcoming alternative to using natural gas resources, a number of countries and institutions are attempting to develop related technologies. However, there are several technical, economic and procedural problems to solve. Despite the continued development in NGHP (Natural Gas Hydrate Pellet) production, a number of problems remained. Specifically, 'Mid' and 'Down-stream' steps have several issues to be considered. For bulk-carrier-type NGHP carriers, which were suggested to IMO(International Maritime Organization) MSC(Maritime Safety Committee) in 2007, the adhering problem duting marine transportaion and longer cargo working times are serious. In addition, several chemicals containing hot water are required for the unloading and regasification process. The glycol water should be purified before disposal. The need for new rules and regulations for NGHP carriers are also a barrier for NGHP carriers. Therefore, an alternative design for effective marine transportation of NGH has been studied. The pros and cons of the existing proposal for an NGHP carrier have been evaluated. Then a new type of NGH carrier has suggested on the basis of systems engineering process.