Coalbed methane: places of origin, perspectives of extraction, alternative methods of transportation with the use of gas hydrate and nanotechnologies

Purpose.To investigate the main basic physical and chemical properties of coalbed methane (CBM), conditions of its formation and places of occurrence. Special attention is paid to CBM utilization using alternative methods such as gas hydrate technologies and nanotechnologies. Methods. Analysis of geological conditions of CBM occurrence and its content in several countries and methods of increasing gas hydrate formation rate to intensify gas utilization. Findings. The reserves of CBM in different countries are classified according to the amount of gas in each country. A wide review is given to the methods of gas hydrates formation rate intensification and nanotechnologies application using different chemical compounds to utilize and transport CBM by ground transportation. Originality. Gas hydrates and dry water have been proposed as alternative methods of CBM utilization and transportation in a solid form. Practical implications. Colossal amounts of methane released into the atmosphere from underground coal mines can be captured and converted into a solid or powder form for transportation over large distances under moderate thermobaric conditions.