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Advanced Environmental Technologies for Increasing Coal Seam Permeability (2018–2021)

Abstract:
Technologies for increasing the permeability of coal have become necessary for commercially viable coal seam gas (CSG) extraction in Australia. Currently available methods arise from the conventional gas industry, are problematic for coal, and fail to capitalise on coal¿s existing fracture network. This project aims to elucidate the physical/chemical mechanisms occurring when benign chemicals interact and dissolve minerals and coal surfaces in the natural fractures. The intended outcome is a range of new coal specific technologies for enhancing permeability that avoid unwanted and irreversible damage to seams and protect the environment. Combined with reduced costs, these methods would benefit sustainable growth of Australia¿s CSG industry.
Grant type:
ARC Linkage Projects
Researchers:

  • Associate Professor Karen Steel

    Associate Professor
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
    Director of HDR Students of School
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

  • Professor Anh Nguyen

    Professor
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

  • Emeritus Professor Joan Esterle

    Emeritus Professor
    School of the Environment
    Faculty of Science
    Emeritus Professor
    School of the Environment
    Faculty of Science
Funded by:
Australian Research Council