Author: G360group
Potentially Explosive Methane Gas Mobile in Groundwater, Poses Safety Risk: Study
Researchers from G360, The University of British Columbia, and The University of Calgary’s latest paper on Methane Gas has received a lot of attention. Their latest paper was recently featured on the University of Guelph’s Website: http://news.uoguelph.ca/2017/04/potentially-explosive-methane-gas-highly-mobile-groundwater-poses-safety-risk/
The Nature Geoscience Article can be found here.
Abstract: Mobility and persistence of methane in groundwater in a controlled-release field experiment
Cahill, A.G., Steelman, C., Forde, O., Kuloyo, O., Ruff, S.E., Mayer, B., Mayer, K.U., Strous, M., Ryan, M.C., Cherry, J.A., Parker, B.L.
Expansion of shale gas extraction has fuelled global concern about the potential impact of fugitive methane on groundwater and climate. Although methane leakage from wells is well documented, the consequences on groundwater remain sparsely studied and are thought by some to be minor. Here we present the results of a 72-day methane gas injection experiment into a shallow, flat-lying sand aquifer. In our experiment, although a significant fraction of methane vented to the atmosphere, an equal portion remained in the groundwater. We find that methane migration in the aquifer was governed by subtle grain-scale bedding that impeded buoyant free-phase gas flow and led to episodic releases of free-phase gas. The result was lateral migration of gas beyond that expected by groundwater advection alone. Methane persisted in the groundwater zone despite active growth of methanotrophic bacteria, although much of the methane that vented into the vadose zone was oxidized. Our findings demonstrate that even small-volume releases of methane gas can cause extensive and persistent free phase and solute plumes emanating from leaks that are detectable only by contaminant hydrogeology monitoring at high resolution.
Dr. Beth Parker on CBC discussing why Industry funding is OK
Dr. Beth Parker was in the news today giving an in depth interview on the CBC about Nestle’s announcement of contributions to her research program at the University of Guelph.
Check out the Article on CBC
International Innovation article featuring Dr. Beth Parker
Another article featuring Beth and the great work of G360 this week. Check out the full article…
Col.lab.o.rate Fall 2014 Special Issue Featuring G³⁶⁰
Dr. Beth Parker’s G360 Institute for Groundwater Research was featured this week in the Col.lab.o.rate fall 2014 special issue. Check it out when you get a chance. Always nice when the group gets a little extra exposure at the home Institution!