Geology and Production of Helium and Associated Gases

Geology and Production of Helium and Associated Gases is a comprehensive book that covers the geology, engineering, and production methods of helium and associated gases, emphasizing their importance in society and the nitrogen industry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Elsevier - Health Sciences Division

Geology and Production of Helium and Associated Gases is a comprehensive exploration of the intricate processes involved in the generation, migration, and trapping of helium within various geologic rock types. The significance of helium in society cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in numerous industries, including space exploration, medicine, and energy production. However, despite its importance, helium is currently in significant short supply, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to address this issue.

In addition to helium, nitrogen is another crucial element that plays a significant role in the fertilizer industry. Nitrogen is a byproduct of helium and natural gas production, and its presence often indicates the presence of helium. This book offers a unique and invaluable resource, as it brings together a wealth of geology, engineering, and production methods that are not readily available elsewhere in a single source.

The first chapter of the book provides an overview of the geological factors that contribute to the formation of helium-rich deposits. It discusses the formation of gas fields, the migration of gases through the earth's crust, and the trapping of gases in sedimentary rock formations. The chapter also highlights the importance of understanding the geological history of a region in order to predict the potential for helium production.

The second chapter delves into the technical aspects of helium production. It discusses the various methods used to extract helium from natural gas, including cryogenic separation, adsorption, and membrane separation. The chapter also explores the challenges associated with helium production, such as the high cost of extraction and the limited supply of natural gas.

The third chapter focuses on the migration of helium and associated gases within geologic rock types. It discusses the mechanisms by which gases can migrate through porous rock, such as fractures and faults, and the factors that influence gas migration rates. The chapter also explores the role of geological structures, such as folds and faults, in trapping helium and associated gases.

The fourth chapter examines the trapping of helium and associated gases in geologic rock types. It discusses the various mechanisms by which gases can be trapped, such as adsorption, capillary action, and chemical reactions. The chapter also highlights the importance of understanding the physical properties of rocks in order to optimize helium trapping.

The fifth chapter explores the applications of helium and associated gases in various industries. It discusses the use of helium in space exploration, medicine, and energy production. The chapter also highlights the potential for helium to be used as a renewable energy source and the challenges associated with its development.

The final chapter provides an overview of the future of helium production and the potential for new technologies to address the current shortage. It discusses the role of government policies and regulations in promoting helium production and the need for international cooperation in addressing the global helium shortage.

In conclusion, Geology and Production of Helium and Associated Gases is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to the generation, migration, and trapping of helium and associated gases. It offers a valuable resource for geologists, engineers, and industry professionals seeking to understand the complex processes involved in helium production and its applications. The book's interdisciplinary approach provides a deep understanding of the geological, technical, and economic factors that contribute to helium production, and its insights will be invaluable to those working in the helium industry.

Dimension: 235 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323909884