Effect of Graphite Nanoparticles on Promoting CO2 Hydrate Formation

Abstract

The effects of the graphite nanoparticles on the CO2 hydrate formation process were experimentally studied by measuring the induction time and amount of gas consumed. A suspension of 0.4% graphite nanoparticles was injected into the hydrate formation reactor, while pressure and temperature were maintained at 3.5 MPa and 277.15 K, and the magnetic stirrer speed was set at 300 rpm. The reaction lasted 800 min. The CO2 hydrate formation process and the amount of gas consumed were studied in both pure water and water containing a 0.4% graphite nanoparticle suspension. The induction time of hydrate formation was measured under various pressures. The results show that the nanographite particles had a positive effect on hydrate formation. In comparison to pure water, the induction time of CO2 hydrate formed in the presence of the graphite nanoparticles decreased by 80.8%, while the maximum CO2 consumption increased by 12.8%. In addition, the hydrate reaction was 98.8% complete within 400 min in the presence of nanographite particles. Graphite nanoparticles played a vital role in promoting CO2 hydrate formation.